Description
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole combines the comforting flavors of classic meatloaf with creamy macaroni and cheese for a hearty, family-friendly meal. With layers of seasoned ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and melted sharp cheddar, this casserole is both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Mixture
- 15 Ritz crackers
- 1 pound lean ground beef (90/10)
- 1 (1 oz) packet onion soup mix
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, divided
Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups water
- 8 oz elbow macaroni noodles
- 1 Tbsp butter
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare meatloaf mixture: In a large bowl, combine the Ritz crackers, ground beef, onion soup mix, egg, ketchup, and half of the BBQ sauce. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated to form the meatloaf base.
- Cook macaroni noodles: In a large saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni noodles along with the butter, kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and pepper. Cook until pasta is al dente, then drain any excess water if necessary.
- Prepare cheese sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the milk and 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the cooked macaroni until the cheese melts completely and creates a creamy sauce.
- Assemble casserole: In a greased casserole dish, layer half of the mac and cheese mixture, then spread the meatloaf mixture evenly over it. Top the meatloaf with the remaining mac and cheese. Drizzle the remaining BBQ sauce over the top layer of mac and cheese.
- Bake the casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled casserole for 30-35 minutes, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked and the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.
- Rest and serve: Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving to help it set and enhance the flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef to make a lighter version.
- For extra creaminess, stir in a splash more milk or a dollop of sour cream into the cheese sauce.
- If you prefer spicier flavors, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meatloaf mixture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
