Description
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish combining a flavorful meatloaf base topped with creamy macaroni and cheese, all baked to perfection with a cheesy golden crust. Perfect for family dinners, this casserole layers seasoned ground beef with tangy ketchup and barbecue sauces beneath a rich, cheesy macaroni topping.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Base
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 30 Ritz Crackers, crushed
- 2 oz Lipton onion soup mix
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (Hickory & Brown Sugar)
Mac and Cheese Topping
- 3 cups macaroni noodles
- 2 cups milk
- 10.5 oz condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend, divided
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Prepare the Meatloaf Base: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the ground beef, crushed Ritz Crackers, Lipton onion soup mix, eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until evenly mixed.
- Form Meatloaf Layer: Press the prepared meat mixture firmly into a large casserole dish, spreading it out evenly to form a solid base layer.
- Add Sauces: Evenly spread the ketchup and barbecue sauce over the top of the meatloaf base to add moisture and tangy flavor.
- Cook Macaroni: Boil the macaroni noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Prepare Mac and Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with milk, condensed cheddar cheese soup, and half of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the macaroni and cheese mixture evenly over the meatloaf base in the casserole dish.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese blend evenly over the macaroni layer for a bubbly, golden crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the meat is cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after removing from the oven to set. Serve warm and enjoy a delicious, hearty meal.
Notes
- For best results, use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease in the casserole.
- Ensure the macaroni is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
- You can substitute the Lipton onion soup mix with homemade seasoning if preferred.
- Letting the casserole rest after baking helps the layers set for cleaner slices when serving.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and baked before serving for convenience.
