Introduction:
Elevate your comfort food game with this Meatloaf Mac Casserole—a delicious fusion of classic meatloaf and creamy macaroni and cheese. This hearty casserole combines seasoned ground beef with a tangy ketchup-barbecue sauce topping, layered with cheesy macaroni, making it the ultimate family-friendly dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup, separated
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 pounds ground beef (lean)
- 30 buttery crackers, crushed
- 1 (2-ounce) packet of onion soup mix
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cups macaroni pasta
- 2 cups milk
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can of condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese, divided
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare Ketchup Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup ketchup with 1 cup barbecue sauce. Mix until well combined.
- Mix Meatloaf: In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, crushed crackers, onion soup mix, and eggs. Use your hands to combine thoroughly. Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Top Meatloaf: Spread the ketchup-barbecue sauce mixture over the beef.
- Bake Meatloaf: Bake for 30 minutes.
- Cook Macaroni: While the meatloaf is baking, cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together the milk and condensed cheddar cheese soup until smooth. Stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well.
- Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce mixture, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated. Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheese.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the macaroni mixture over the partially baked meatloaf and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake Casserole: Bake for an additional 17-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and starting to brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture for an extra kick.
- Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack or gouda for varied flavors.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350 degrees F until heated through.
10 FAQs
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Yes, any pasta shape you prefer can be used.
- Can I freeze this casserole?
- Yes, it can be frozen before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and bake just before serving.
- What can I serve with this casserole?
- A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables are great side dishes.
- Can I use low-fat cheese?
- Yes, you can use low-fat cheese if preferred, but it may affect the creaminess.
- How do I ensure the meatloaf stays juicy?
- Make sure not to overmix the meatloaf mixture and avoid overcooking.
- Can I use a different type of meat?
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used as alternatives to beef.
- How do I know when the casserole is done?
- The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the macaroni should be heated through.
- Can I add vegetables to the macaroni?
- Yes, you can mix in cooked vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers.
- How do I prevent the macaroni from drying out?
- Ensure that the cheese sauce is creamy and coat the pasta well before baking.
Conclusion
This Meatloaf Mac Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for family dinners. With its layers of savory meatloaf and creamy, cheesy macaroni, it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Enjoy this easy-to-make, delicious casserole that brings together the best of both worlds in one satisfying meal!
Print
Meatloaf Mac Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Meatloaf Mac Casserole combines the best of meatloaf and macaroni and cheese into one delicious dish. The hearty meatloaf is topped with a creamy, cheesy macaroni mixture, making it a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup ketchup, separated
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 pounds ground beef (lean)
- 30 buttery crackers, crushed
- 1 (2-ounce) packet of onion soup mix
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cups macaroni pasta
- 2 cups milk
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can of condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix 1 cup ketchup and 1 cup barbecue sauce in a medium bowl.
- Combine ground beef, crushed crackers, onion soup mix, and eggs in a large bowl. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Top the beef mixture with the ketchup-barbecue sauce mixture.
- Bake the meatloaf for 30 minutes.
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Whisk together milk and cheddar cheese soup in a large bowl. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Stir the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce mixture and mix in 2 cups of shredded cheese.
- Pour the macaroni mixture over the baked meatloaf and spread evenly. Top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake for an additional 17-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and starting to brown.
- Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the macaroni is well-coated with the cheese sauce to prevent it from drying out.
- You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.
- Add cooked vegetables like peas or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole
- Calories: 800 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 1,200 mg
- Fat: 45 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg