Description
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish combining the classic flavors of meatloaf with creamy macaroni and cheese. Ground beef seasoned with aromatic spices and onion soup mix is baked with a tangy ketchup and barbecue sauce layer, topped with cheesy macaroni and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for family dinners, this casserole offers a delicious twist on traditional meatloaf with rich, cheesy pasta nestled on top.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Base
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 30 Ritz Crackers (crushed)
- 2 oz Lipton onion soup mix
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (Hickory & Brown Sugar)
Mac and Cheese
- 3 cups macaroni noodles
- 2 cups milk
- 10.5 oz condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend (divided)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole evenly.
- Prepare the Meatloaf Base: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the ground beef, crushed Ritz Crackers, Lipton onion soup mix, eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until evenly mixed.
- Form Meatloaf Layer: Press the meat mixture into a large casserole dish, spreading it into an even layer to act as the base of the dish.
- Add Sauces: Spread the ketchup and barbecue sauce evenly over the top of the formed meatloaf layer to add moisture and flavor.
- Cook Macaroni: Cook the macaroni noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Mix Macaroni and Cheese Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the milk, condensed cheddar cheese soup, and half of the shredded cheese blend to create a creamy cheese mixture.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the macaroni and cheese mixture evenly over the meatloaf base in the casserole dish.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend evenly over the top of the assembled casserole.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the meat is fully cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the layers set and to avoid burns. Enjoy your comforting meal!
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- For extra flavor, add chopped onions or bell peppers to the meat mixture.
- If you prefer a sharper cheese flavor, try adding some grated Parmesan on top before baking.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add extra baking time if straight from the fridge.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated thoroughly before serving.
