Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is an irresistible, crowd-pleasing dish that beautifully combines two all-time favorites: mac and cheese and hearty meatloaf. This comforting recipe blends seasoned beef with creamy, cheesy pasta, creating a satisfying meal that will warm your soul. Picture tender meatloaf topped with gooey cheese and perfectly cooked macaroni, all nestled in a savory sauce. The explosion of flavors and textures in each bite is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Not only is this casserole delicious, but it’s also surprisingly simple to prepare step-by-step, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that even your kids will lick their plates clean.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the greatest benefits of the Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the easy prep that can fit seamlessly into your busy schedule. With simple, readily available ingredients, it’s an ideal choice for family dinners. This recipe combines the heartiness of meatloaf with the creamy comfort of mac and cheese, ensuring it’s not only filling but also comforting. The minimal ingredients make it a straightforward endeavor, so even novice cooks can whip it up without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, it’s a fun way to change up the traditional meatloaf while keeping all the flavors that your family loves.
Ingredients for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
To create this delectable Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder: Adds a rich garlic flavor to the dish.
- 1 cup Sweet Baby Ray’s Hickory & Brown Sugar BBQ sauce: Provides a smoky sweetness that complements the meat.
- 2 cups milk: Creates a creamy base for your mac and cheese.
- 2 lbs lean ground beef: The heart of the meatloaf, ensuring a satisfying protein source.
- 10.5 oz condensed cheddar cheese soup: Infuses the casserole with velvety cheese goodness.
- 3 cups macaroni noodles: The base of the mac and cheese, soft and comforting.
- 1 teaspoon pepper: A dash makes everything better.
- 4 cups shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese blend: Melts on top for that gooey, cheesy finish.
- 1 tablespoon onion powder: Enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
- 1 cup ketchup: Adds a hint of sweetness and moisture.
- 30 Ritz crackers, crushed: For added texture and flavor in the meatloaf.
- 2 oz Lipton onion soup mix: Packs a punch of oniony goodness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning.
- 2 large eggs: Binds everything together in the meatloaf.
Step-by-Step Directions for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.
Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix one cup of ketchup and the BBQ sauce together. Set this aside, as it will be drizzled over the casserole later.
Mix the meatloaf ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, onion soup mix, eggs, and ½ cup of the prepared sauce mixture. Use your hands or a spatula to blend everything until just mixed; be careful not to overwork it.
Press into baking dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray, and then press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the dish.
Top with sauce: Spread the remaining sauce blend over the top of the meatloaf, allowing it to infuse flavor while baking.
Bake the meatloaf: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes.
Cook macaroni: While the meatloaf bakes, prepare the macaroni noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make the cheese sauce: In a pot over medium heat, whisk together the milk, cheddar cheese soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well-blended.
Combine with noodles: Stir in the drained macaroni and 2 cups of the shredded cheese into the cheese sauce, ensuring every noodle is well coated.
Assemble the casserole: Once the meatloaf is done baking, carefully spoon the mac and cheese mixture over the top of the meatloaf layer.
Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the remaining cheese blend generously over the macaroni and meatloaf.
Final baking: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 17 to 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and has turned a beautiful golden brown.
Let it rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving to help it set.
Tips & Tricks
For an added depth of flavor, consider mixing in additional spices or herbs, such as Italian seasoning or smoked paprika, to the ground beef. If you want a little kick, you might also add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the mac and cheese. To change things up, try using different types of cheese, like pepper jack for a spicier version or gouda for a smoky finish. You can also mix in vegetables such as spinach or broccoli for a pop of color and added nutrition. The possibilities are endless!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is delicious on its own but can be elevated with tasty sides. Serve a fresh green salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole. You could also pair it with garlic bread for extra indulgence or roasted vegetables for a healthier option. Lastly, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can enhance presentation and flavor.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is hearty and delicious, packing a generous amount of protein and comfort. While exact calorie counts can vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes, you can expect each slice to provide essential nutrients alongside a delightful taste. This dish is perfect for satisfying those hunger pangs while also being a great source of energy.
Storing Tips & Variations for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days, or you can freeze it for longer storage. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven to keep that cheesy texture. For a healthier twist, consider using ground turkey or chicken in place of beef, or swap regular pasta for whole-grain noodles. You can also experiment by adding your favorite vegetables to the mac and cheese to sneak in some extra nutrients for the kids!
Conclusion for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Don’t wait another day to try this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole! It’s a delightful fusion dish that the whole family will rave about. With ease of preparation and the magical combination of comforting flavors, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and get ready to enjoy a delicious dinner that everyone will adore.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf and assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
Can I use gluten-free noodles?
Yes, feel free to substitute the macaroni noodles with your favorite gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
What kind of cheese can I use?
You can use any blend of cheeses that you love. Cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack are great options for this casserole.
How do I ensure my meatloaf stays juicy?
Using lean ground beef is ideal, but you can mix in some grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots, which can add moisture to the meatloaf.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just use a larger baking dish and increase the baking time slightly, checking for doneness to ensure everything cooks evenly. Enjoy your cooking adventure with this delicious casserole!
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 2 lbs lean ground beef The heart of the meatloaf.
- 30 pieces Ritz crackers, crushed Adds texture and flavor.
- 2 oz Lipton onion soup mix Adds onion flavor.
- 2 large eggs Binds the mixture together.
- 1 cup ketchup Adds sweetness and moisture.
- 1 cup Sweet Baby Ray’s Hickory & Brown Sugar BBQ sauce Provides smoky sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder Enhances the flavor.
- 1 tablespoon onion powder Adds depth to the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt Essential for seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon pepper Adds a touch of spice.
For the Mac and Cheese
- 3 cups macaroni noodles The base of the mac and cheese.
- 2 cups milk Creates a creamy base.
- 10.5 oz condensed cheddar cheese soup Infuses velvety cheese goodness.
- 4 cups shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese blend Melts on top for a gooey finish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together ketchup and BBQ sauce. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine lean ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, onion soup mix, eggs, and ½ cup of the sauce mixture. Mix gently.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and press the meat mixture into the bottom of the dish.
- Spread the remaining sauce mixture over the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes.
- While baking, cook macaroni noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a pot over medium heat, whisk together milk, cheddar cheese soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Stir in the drained macaroni and 2 cups of the shredded cheese into the cheese sauce.
- Once the meatloaf is done, spoon the mac and cheese mixture over the meatloaf layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese blend over the top.
- Bake for an additional 17 to 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.