Description
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish combining a savory meatloaf base with creamy mac and cheese layered on top and baked to golden perfection. Featuring seasoned ground beef, a blend of rich cheeses, and a flavorful sauce topping, it’s perfect for a family dinner that everyone will love.
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
Sauces
- 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 ensure it is hot and ready for baking the casserole.
- Prepare the Meatloaf Base: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed Ritz Crackers, Lipton onion soup mix, eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder thoroughly to create the meatloaf mixture.
- Form Meatloaf Layer: Press the meat mixture into a large casserole dish, spreading it out evenly to form a solid base layer.
- Add Sauces: Spread the ketchup and barbecue sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf base to add flavor and moisture.
- Cook Macaroni: Cook the macaroni noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Mix Mac and Cheese: In a separate bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with milk, condensed cheddar cheese soup, and half of the shredded cheese blend, mixing well to create a creamy mac and cheese.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the macaroni and cheese mixture evenly over the meatloaf layer in the casserole dish.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend evenly over the top of the mac and cheese layer.
- Bake: Bake the assembled casserole in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the meatloaf is cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the layers set. Enjoy your comforting meal!
Notes
- You can substitute the Ritz Crackers with breadcrumbs if desired.
- To make a spicier version, add some chili powder or cayenne to the meatloaf mix.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Ensure the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to be fully cooked.
