Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines two beloved classics into one delicious dish. This hearty casserole features a savory ground beef meatloaf base topped with creamy macaroni and cheese, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Its unique blend of flavors and textures will satisfy even the pickiest eaters, ensuring it’s a hit at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of meatloaf and macaroni and cheese creates a rich and satisfying meal that warms the heart.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or special occasions, this casserole can be enjoyed any time.
• Kid-Friendly: The familiar flavors of mac and cheese paired with meatloaf will delight children and adults alike.
• Leftover Friendly: This dish reheats well, making it great for meal prep or leftovers for lunch.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole, gather the necessary tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking dish (9 x 13 inch)
• Ziploc bag
• Rolling pin
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients easily without spilling.
• Baking dish: Provides the right size to hold your casserole while it bakes evenly.
• Ziploc bag: Perfect for crushing Ritz crackers mess-free.
• Whisk: Ensures that your liquid ingredients are well mixed without lumps.

Ingredients

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is packed with flavors that everyone will love. Gather these ingredients:

For the Meatloaf Base

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1 cup Sweet Baby Ray’s Hickory & Brown Sugar barbecue sauce
• 2 lbs lean ground beef
• 30 Ritz Crackers
• 2 oz Lipton onion soup mix
• 2 eggs

For the Macaroni Topping

• 3 cups macaroni noodles
• 2 cups milk
• 10.5 oz condensed cheddar cheese soup
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder

For the Cheese Blend

• 4 cups shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend

How to Make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you need it.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ketchup and barbecue sauce. Stir until well combined, then set aside.

Step 3: Make the Meatloaf Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef.
2. Place Ritz crackers in a large Ziploc bag. Use a rolling pin to crush them into fine crumbs.
3. Pour the cracker crumbs into the bowl with the ground beef.
4. Add onion soup mix and eggs to this mixture.
5. Incorporate 1/2 cup of the ketchup-barbecue sauce mixture into the meat mixture.
6. Mix all ingredients thoroughly using your hands until fully combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread the meatloaf mixture evenly in a greased 9 x 13 inch baking dish.
2. Top with the remaining ketchup-barbecue sauce mixture.

Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf

Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes.

Step 6: Cook Macaroni Noodles

While baking, cook macaroni noodles according to package directions; drain when finished.

Step 7: Prepare Cheesy Sauce

1. In a large mixing bowl, pour in milk and cheddar cheese soup.
2. Whisk until no lumps remain.
3. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder; whisk again until well mixed.

Step 8: Combine with Macaroni

1. Stir in cooked macaroni noodles until they are fully coated in the cheesy sauce.
2. Mix in 2 cups of shredded cheese.

Step 9: Final Assembly

1. After baking for 30 minutes, remove meatloaf from oven.
2. Pour macaroni mixture over the meatloaf evenly.
3. Sprinkle remaining shredded cheese on top.

Step 10: Bake Again

Return to oven and bake until cheese is melted and slightly browned—about 17–20 minutes.

Step 11: Serve

Remove from oven and let it sit for a few minutes before slicing into servings.

Enjoy your delicious Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole!

How to Serve Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Serving Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a delightful experience that brings comfort to any dinner table. This dish combines the hearty flavors of meatloaf with the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese, making it a favorite among families.

Family Style

• Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a casual gathering. This allows everyone to help themselves and enjoy seconds.

Individual Portions

• For a more refined presentation, scoop individual portions onto plates. Garnish with fresh herbs for an added touch.

Accompanied by Salad

• Pair with a light green salad. A simple vinaigrette can complement the richness of the casserole beautifully.

With Garlic Bread

• Serve alongside warm garlic bread. The crunchy texture of the bread contrasts well with the creamy casserole.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Consider sprinkling fresh parsley or chives on top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

Paired with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted vegetables provide a healthy balance. Choose seasonal veggies like carrots, broccoli, or zucchini to mix things up.

How to Perfect Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Perfecting your Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole will ensure that each bite is deliciously satisfying. Follow these tips for an optimal dish every time.

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce grease while maintaining flavor.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until combined to keep the meatloaf tender.
• Add Extra Cheese: For an even cheesier topping, feel free to add more cheese on top before baking.
• Rest Before Serving: Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking helps it hold its shape when sliced.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust seasonings or add your favorites like paprika or Italian herbs for extra flavor.
• Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 160°F for safe consumption.

Best Side Dishes for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Complementing your Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole with the right side dishes enhances your meal. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients, steaming it keeps it crisp-tender.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes bring comfort, especially when flavored with garlic.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins pair wonderfully, soaking up any extra sauce from the casserole.
5. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus adds elegance and balances out the main dish’s heaviness.
6. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens dressed lightly can refresh the palate between bites of casserole.
7. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans offer a hearty side that complements meat dishes perfectly.
8. Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad made with yogurt dressing adds crispness and acidity to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole, beginners can easily make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to avoid.

• Overmixing the Meatloaf – Overmixing can lead to a dense meatloaf. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Neglecting to Preheat the Oven – Skipping this step can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven before baking.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese – Low-quality cheese may not melt well and can affect flavor. Opt for good quality shredded cheese for the best results.
• Not Letting it Rest – Cutting into the casserole immediately can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before slicing.
• Ignoring Cooking Times – Cooking too long or too short can ruin the dish. Follow timing closely for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor and safety.

Freezing Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for quality retention.

Reheating Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place portions in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Reheat on low in a pan, stirring occasionally until hot throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole that might help you.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that will still provide delicious flavor while making the casserole lighter.

How can I customize my Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition. You can also try different cheese blends!

What sides pair well with this casserole?

Serving it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables will complement your meal nicely and balance the richness of the dish.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare everything up to baking, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting dish that brings together two favorites in one hearty meal. It’s versatile enough to allow customization based on your preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors!

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Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x

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Description

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a deliciously comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of savory ground beef meatloaf with creamy macaroni and cheese. This family-friendly casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, ensuring even the pickiest eaters will be satisfied. With an easy-to-follow recipe, this hearty meal allows you to bring together two beloved classics into one delightful experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 30 Ritz crackers
• 3 cups macaroni noodles
• 10.5 oz condensed cheddar cheese soup
• 4 cups shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend
• 2 eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix ketchup and barbecue sauce; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, onion soup mix, eggs, and half of the ketchup mixture.
4. Spread the meatloaf mixture in a greased 9 x 13 inch baking dish and top with remaining ketchup mixture.
5. Bake for 30 minutes.
6. Cook macaroni noodles according to package instructions; drain.
7. In another bowl, whisk together milk, cheddar cheese soup, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
8. Mix cooked macaroni with cheesy sauce and add in 2 cups of shredded cheese.
9. Pour the macaroni mixture over the baked meatloaf and sprinkle with remaining cheese.
10. Bake again until cheese is melted and slightly browned—about 17–20 minutes.
11. Let sit before slicing into servings.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 200g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 100mg