Looking for a comforting and indulgent dinner that combines two classic dishes? Look no further than this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole. This deliciously hearty dish brings together the savory flavors of meatloaf with the creamy goodness of mac and cheese, creating a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. Ideal for family dinners or a cozy night in, this casserole is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 cup Sweet Baby Ray’s Hickory & Brown Sugar barbecue sauce
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 30 Ritz Crackers, crushed
- 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
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatloaf:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed Ritz Crackers, Lipton onion soup mix, and eggs. Mix until well combined.
- Press the meatloaf mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Top with Sauces:
- In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup and barbecue sauce.
- Spread half of the sauce mixture over the meatloaf.
3. Cook the Macaroni:
- Cook the macaroni noodles according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and condensed cheddar cheese soup over medium heat. Stir until smooth and heated through.
- Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the cheese sauce. Mix well.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the cooked macaroni noodles evenly over the meatloaf in the baking dish.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni, making sure it is evenly distributed.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and spread the remaining sauce mixture over the top of the cheese.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Slice and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook’s Notes
- Cracker Substitute: If you don’t have Ritz Crackers, you can use breadcrumbs or any other type of crackers you prefer.
- Cheese Variation: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for the topping. Sharp cheddar, gouda, or even pepper jack can add a unique twist.
- Add Vegetables: For a more nutritious meal, consider adding some diced bell peppers or spinach to the meatloaf mixture.
Variations
- Turkey Meatloaf Casserole:
- Replace the ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version of this dish.
- Use whole wheat macaroni noodles for an extra boost of fiber.
- Spicy Mac and Cheese Meatloaf:
- Add some chopped jalapeños to the meatloaf mixture.
- Use a blend of spicy cheeses like pepper jack or habanero cheddar.
- Vegetarian Mac and Cheese Bake:
- Use a plant-based meat substitute in place of the ground beef.
- Substitute the condensed cheddar cheese soup with a vegan cheese sauce.
Keto Version
Ingredients:
- Replace the macaroni noodles with cauliflower florets.
- Use sugar-free ketchup and barbecue sauce.
- Ensure the cheese used is full-fat and low in carbs.
Instructions:
- Follow the same preparation steps, substituting the macaroni noodles with cauliflower florets.
Low-Carb Version
Ingredients:
- Use low-carb pasta or zucchini noodles.
- Choose a low-carb ketchup and barbecue sauce.
- Stick with full-fat cheese.
Instructions:
- Prepare and assemble the casserole as described, using low-carb substitutes where necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
2. How should I store leftovers?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
- Yes, you can freeze the assembled and baked casserole. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.
4. What sides go well with this casserole?
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh green salad, or garlic bread.
5. Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or shells.
The Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a delightful and comforting dish that combines two beloved classics into one delicious meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any time you want to indulge in something hearty and satisfying. With its versatility and the option to customize to your dietary needs, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy the savory meatloaf, creamy macaroni, and cheesy topping in every bite!
