A Hearty, Comfort-Food Mashup with Layers of Flavor

This Cheesy Meatloaf Mac Casserole is a bold, one-dish wonder that combines the classic comfort of meatloaf with the creamy indulgence of macaroni and cheese. With a smoky-sweet sauce, crispy Ritz cracker crust, and a golden cheese crown—it’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want something rich and satisfying.

A comforting blend of two American favorites in one pan!


Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • 🥩 Meatloaf Base: Ground beef, Ritz crackers, and onion soup mix create a savory, crispy crust.
  • 🍝 Mac & Cheese Swirl: A rich blend of cheddar cheese soup, milk, and shredded cheese coats every noodle.
  • 🧀 Golden Cheese Finish: A second layer of cheese browns during baking for a bubbly, crispy top.
  • ⏱️ Quick Assembly: No boiling, no stirring—just mix, layer, and bake.
  • 🎉 Great for Sharing: Ideal at family dinners, school events, or game-day snacks.

Ingredients (Serves 8–10):

For the Sauce:

  • 1 cup ketchup (or tomato sauce for milder flavor)
  • 1 cup Sweet Baby Ray’s Hickory & Brown Sugar BBQ sauce (or homemade BBQ sauce for depth)

For the Meatloaf Layer:

  • 2 lbs ground beef (or ground turkey for lighter version)
  • 30 Ritz crackers , crushed (or breadcrumbs for crunch-free)
  • 2 oz Lipton onion soup mix (or ¼ cup dried onion flakes + 1 tsp salt)
  • 2 large eggs , beaten (or flax egg for vegan option)

For the Macaroni Mixture:

  • 3 cups uncooked macaroni noodles (or penne, elbow, or gluten-free pasta)
  • 2 cups milk (whole, low-fat, or plant-based like oat or almond)
  • 10.5 oz (1 can) cheddar cheese soup (or homemade cheese sauce)
  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder (or 3 cloves minced garlic)
  • 1 tbsp onion powder (or ½ cup finely chopped caramelized onions)
  • 4 cups shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend (divided use – or Gouda, Swiss, or vegan cheese)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prep Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) .

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or oil—set aside.


Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a bowl, combine:

  • Ketchup
  • BBQ sauce

Set aside a ½ cup for the meatloaf base and reserve the rest for topping.


Step 3: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large bowl, mix:

  • Ground beef
  • Crushed Ritz crackers
  • Onion soup mix
  • Beaten eggs

Add reserved ½ cup sauce and stir until fully combined.

Press mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Top with remaining sauce, spreading smoothly over the surface.


Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf Layer

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes , or until meatloaf is cooked through (165°F internal temp ).

While meatloaf bakes, cook the macaroni.


Step 5: Make the Macaroni Mixture

Boil macaroni noodles in salted water until al dente (about 8–10 minutes ).

Drain and return to the pot.

Whisk:

  • Milk
  • Cheese soup
  • Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder

Pour sauce over macaroni and stir in 2 cups cheese blend .


Step 6: Layer & Bake Again

Remove meatloaf from oven and pour the macaroni mixture over the top, spreading evenly.

Sprinkle remaining 2 cups cheese over the pasta layer.

Return to oven and bake for 17–20 minutes , or until cheese is golden and bubbly.


Step 7: Rest & Serve Hot

Let casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving—this helps layers set.

Cut into squares and serve warm with a side of coleslaw, green beans, or salad.

Each bite brings together:

  • Savory, smoky meatloaf crust
  • Silky, cheesy macaroni layer
  • Golden, bubbly cheese finish
  • And that classic comfort-food charm

Tips for Success:

  • 🧈 Use Cold Hands: Helps mix and press meatloaf layer without sticking.
  • 🥣 Sauce Hack: If sauce is too thick, add 1–2 tbsp milk or broth to thin.
  • 🧁 Cheese Swap Magic: Try pepper jack, Gouda, or goat cheese for different finishes.
  • 🥟 Make Ahead Magic: Assemble and refrigerate—bake fresh when ready.
  • ❄️ Freezer-Friendly: Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 3 months—thaw and bake as usual.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Pair with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad .
  • Great with beer, lemon water, or a cold glass of milk.
  • Ideal for weeknight dinners, school lunches, or meal prep .

Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 8 – approximate):

(With regular cheese and beef – per serving)

  • Calories: ~500 kcal
  • Protein: ~25g
  • Carbohydrates: ~35g
  • Fat: ~25g
  • Fiber: ~1g
  • Sugar: ~6g

This Cheesy Meatloaf Mac Casserole proves that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated to be unforgettable. With its smoky meatloaf, creamy macaroni, and golden cheese crust—it’s a must-bake for lovers of bold, layered baked dishes.

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