Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole recipe. It combines the classic flavors of meatloaf with creamy mac and cheese for a hearty and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for those looking for a comforting and filling dish that is easy to prepare. It brings together the savory flavors of meatloaf with the creamy and cheesy goodness of mac and cheese, creating a delightful combination that is sure to be a hit.

How to Make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Ingredients:

1 cup ketchup
1 cup Sweet Baby Rays Hickory & Brown Sugar barbecue sauce
2 lbs lean ground beef
30 Ritz Crackers
2 oz Lipton onion soup mix
2 eggs
3 cups macaroni noodles
2 cups milk
10.5 oz condensed cheddar cheese soup
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
4 cups shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Combine ketchup and barbecue sauce in a medium bowl.
In a large bowl, mix ground beef, crushed Ritz Crackers, onion soup mix, eggs, and half of the ketchup and barbecue sauce mixture.
Press the meat mixture into the baking dish and top with the remaining sauce. Bake for 30 minutes.
Cook macaroni noodles, then mix with milk, cheddar cheese soup, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and 2 cups of shredded cheese.
Pour the macaroni mixture over the meatloaf, top with remaining cheese, and bake for 17-20 minutes.
Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Serve this delicious casserole hot and fresh from the oven. Pair it with a side salad or vegetable for a complete and satisfying meal.

How to Store Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Tips to Make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Customize the cheese blend to your liking for different flavor profiles.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free crackers, soup mix, and noodles.
Prepare the casserole ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve for added convenience.

Variation

Feel free to add in additional seasonings or vegetables to the meatloaf mixture for extra flavor and texture. You can also experiment with different cheese blends for a unique twist.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
Can I make this casserole without eggs?
- You can try using a binder like breadcrumbs or a flaxseed mixture as an egg replacement.
Can I freeze Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole?
- Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking as directed.