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Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Featured in Hearty and Delicious Mains.

A comforting bowl of homemade Thai red curry noodle soup starts with tender chicken and soft rice noodles swimming in creamy coconut milk broth. The secret lies in blooming red curry paste in coconut milk before adding rich chicken stock and aromatic ginger. Fresh lime juice adds brightness while handfuls of basil and cilantro bring color and fresh flavor. Better than takeout, this satisfying meal comes together in under sixty minutes. A splash of fish sauce deepens all the flavors while sriracha lets everyone adjust the heat to their liking.
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Updated on Tue, 14 Jan 2025 20:36:14 GMT
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A close-up of a baked dish featuring layers of macaroni, ground beef, and melted cheese, garnished with fresh parsley. Pin it
A close-up of a baked dish featuring layers of macaroni, ground beef, and melted cheese, garnished with fresh parsley. | tastygusto.com

This recipe combines two of my familys favorite comfort foods into one amazing dish. The meatloaf stays tender and juicy while creamy mac and cheese adds the perfect cheesy touch. Its become our go to meal when we want something cozy and satisfying that brings everyone to the table with smiles.

What Makes This Recipe Special

I love how this casserole gives you the best of both worlds. The rich mac and cheese pairs perfectly with savory meatloaf in every bite. Its my secret weapon for busy nights when I need something filling that I know everyone will enjoy. Plus having it all in one dish means easier cleanup.

Everything You Need

  • Ground Beef: Lean beef forms the hearty base of the meatloaf.
  • Ritz Crackers: Provide buttery flavor and help bind the meat mixture.
  • Cheddar Cheese Soup: Adds a rich, creamy texture to the mac and cheese layer.
  • Shredded Cheese Blend: Ensures a gooey, golden topping thats irresistibly cheesy.
  • Sweet Baby Rays Barbecue Sauce: Delivers a tangy, sweet glaze to enhance the meatloaf.

Lets Get Cooking

Prepare the Meatloaf
Mix ground beef, Ritz crackers, onion soup mix, eggs, and barbecue sauce. Press into a greased dish, glaze, and pre-bake for 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Cook the Macaroni
Boil macaroni until al dente. Combine with cheddar soup, milk, seasonings, and shredded cheese for a creamy base.
Assemble and Bake
Layer mac and cheese over the meatloaf, top with more cheese, and bake for an additional 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

My Kitchen Secrets

Take time to mix your meatloaf ingredients well so every bite is perfect. Watch your pasta carefully you want it just al dente. I always grate my own cheese it melts so much better than pre shredded. Taste and adjust your seasonings as you go.

Complete Your Meal

We love serving this with a fresh green salad on the side. Some warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up all that creamy sauce. The combination makes such a satisfying dinner that everyone looks forward to.

Saving For Later

This casserole keeps beautifully in the fridge for about 3 days. When youre ready to enjoy it again warm it in the oven for the best results. You can even freeze portions for up to 3 months perfect for busy days ahead.

A delicious baked macaroni and cheese dish topped with melted cheddar and ground beef, garnished with fresh herbs. Pin it
A delicious baked macaroni and cheese dish topped with melted cheddar and ground beef, garnished with fresh herbs. | tastygusto.com

Mix It Up

Sometimes I use ground turkey to keep things lighter or swap in different cheeses for new flavors. Adding some spinach or mushrooms makes it even more nutritious. Play around with the breadings too breadcrumbs work just as well as crackers.

Pure Comfort Food

This casserole brings together everything we love about comfort food. Its perfect for feeding a crowd or having leftovers for lunch. The combination of flavors never fails to make everyone happy.

A Bit of History

I love how this dish combines two classics from Americas past. Meatloaf helped families stretch their food during tough times while mac and cheese has been comforting us since Thomas Jeffersons day. Together they make something truly special.

Good For You Too

You get plenty of protein from the beef and calcium from all that cheese. The pasta gives you energy while the fats keep you satisfied. When we want something lighter I use leaner meat or reduce the cheese but it still tastes amazing.

A close-up slice of cheesy beef lasagna with macaroni noodles, served on a plate. Pin it
A close-up slice of cheesy beef lasagna with macaroni noodles, served on a plate. | tastygusto.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day before and store it in the fridge. Add extra baking time when cooking from cold to ensure it's heated through.
→ How long do leftovers keep?
Leftovers stay good for three days in the fridge. You can also freeze portions for up to three months.
→ Can I use different cheese?
Yes, try Gruyère, Gouda, or Pepper Jack for different flavors. Fresh-shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
→ How should I reheat leftovers?
Warm in a 350°F oven covered with foil for 20-25 minutes, or microwave portions for 2-3 minutes on medium power.
→ Can I make a lighter version?
You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Choose reduced-fat cheese and milk to cut calories.

Mac Cheese Meatloaf

A filling casserole that layers savory meatloaf with creamy mac and cheese, creating the perfect comfort food mashup for family dinners.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
50 Minutes
Total Time
65 Minutes

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 8 Servings (1 casserole)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

01 1 cup ketchup.
02 1 cup Sweet Baby Ray's Hickory & Brown Sugar barbecue sauce.
03 2 lbs lean ground beef.
04 30 Ritz Crackers, crushed.
05 2 oz Lipton onion soup mix.
06 2 eggs.
07 3 cups macaroni noodles.
08 2 cups milk.
09 10.5 oz condensed cheddar cheese soup.
10 1 tsp salt.
11 1 tsp pepper.
12 1 tbsp garlic powder.
13 1 tbsp onion powder.
14 4 cups shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend.

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Step 02

Mix ketchup and barbecue sauce together. Set aside.

Step 03

Mix ground beef, crushed crackers, onion soup mix, eggs, and half the sauce. Press into greased baking dish. Top with remaining sauce.

Step 04

Bake meatloaf for 30 minutes.

Step 05

Cook macaroni and drain. Mix with milk, cheese soup, seasonings, and 2 cups cheese.

Step 06

Spread mac and cheese over meatloaf, top with remaining cheese. Bake 17-20 minutes more.

Notes

  1. Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
  2. Can be made ahead and stored overnight.
  3. Freezes well for up to three months.

Tools You'll Need

  • Baking dish.
  • Large pot for pasta.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Eggs.
  • Dairy.
  • Wheat.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 549
  • Total Fat: 28 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 45 g
  • Protein: 32 g