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.
