If you’re a fan of classic comfort foods like meatloaf and mac and cheese, this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole will take your dinner game to the next level. By combining two beloved dishes into one, you get a hearty, flavorful casserole that’s ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or when you’re craving something extra indulgent. This recipe gives you the savory taste of meatloaf paired with the creamy goodness of mac and cheese—all in one satisfying bite.
Casseroles have long been a staple of home-cooked meals, known for their simplicity and ability to feed a crowd. They are flexible, allowing for ingredient swaps and creative tweaks to suit your tastes. This dish also taps into the timeless appeal of meatloaf, a protein-packed, easy-to-make dish that has been a part of dinner tables for generations. For a healthier spin, you can explore meatloaf variations by visiting this guide to healthier meatloaf recipes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to make this tasty casserole:
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 30 crushed Ritz crackers (or breadcrumbs for a different texture)
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 eggs
- 1 onion soup mix packet
- 3 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar)
- 1 cup milk
- 10 oz condensed cheddar cheese soup
- Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste
This combination of ingredients provides the base for your meatloaf while adding a layer of creamy, cheesy macaroni to complete the dish.
How to Make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for the meatloaf base. - Prepare the Meatloaf Base
In a large bowl, combine your lean ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, eggs, onion soup mix, and half of your ketchup and BBQ sauce mixture. Press this meat mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread the remaining ketchup mixture on top of the meatloaf, which will help keep it moist as it bakes. Bake for 30 minutes. - Cook the Macaroni
While the meatloaf is baking, cook your macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.In a separate saucepan, whisk together milk, condensed cheddar cheese soup, and seasonings (salt, pepper, and garlic powder). Stir in the cooked macaroni and mix in half of your shredded cheddar cheese.
- Layer the Casserole
Once the meatloaf has baked for 30 minutes, remove it from the oven. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture over the meatloaf and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top. - Final Bake
Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. - Let it Rest
Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
- Use a mix of cheeses: A combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and even a hint of gouda can enhance the flavor and texture of your casserole.
- Don’t overcook the meatloaf: Overcooking can dry out the meat. Keep an eye on it during the initial baking phase.
- Customize your toppings: For a crunchy topping, consider adding breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers on top of the cheese layer before the final bake.
Popular Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up, here are some fun variations of the Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole:
- BBQ Meatloaf Version: Add more BBQ sauce instead of ketchup for a smokier flavor.
- Vegetarian Twist: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or chickpeas to make a meat-free version of this dish.
- Extra Cheesy: Layer additional types of cheese between the macaroni and meatloaf for an even richer casserole.
FAQs About Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze the casserole in individual portions for easy reheating later.
What side dishes go well with this casserole?
Pair your Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole with a light green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish.
Can I use different types of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Adjust the seasonings accordingly to bring out the best flavors.
Nutritional Information
Depending on the exact ingredients you use, a typical serving of this casserole can contain around 500-600 calories. For those looking to cut down on calories, you can use leaner meats and reduce the cheese content without losing too much flavor.
Conclusion
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the perfect dish for anyone craving a hearty, flavorful meal that combines the best of two comfort food classics. Whether you follow the recipe exactly or experiment with your own variations, you’re sure to have a meal that satisfies. Try it out for your next family dinner or special gathering!