Can I substitute ground turkey for the beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey makes a leaner version, and it still pairs well with the cheesy topping. Just be sure to season it well since turkey tends to be milder in flavor.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf and mac and cheese layers separately, refrigerate them, and assemble just before baking. It’s a lifesaver for busy nights or when hosting guests.

What cheeses work best if I don’t have cheddar or mozzarella?

Feel free to try Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked gouda for extra flavor. Just stick to melt-friendly cheeses for that creamy texture.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the fully baked casserole. Let it cool, portion it out, and wrap tightly. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole That Brings Everyone to the Table

Ingredients

Scale

Meatloaf Layer

2 lbs lean ground beef
30 Ritz crackers, crushed
1 packet (2 oz) Lipton onion soup mix
½ cup diced sweet onion
2 eggs
½ cup ketchup
½ cup barbecue sauce

Mac and Cheese Layer

3 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups whole milk
2 cans (10.5 oz each) condensed cheddar cheese soup
1 tsp garlic salt
1 tsp pepper
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Prepare Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, onion soup mix, diced sweet onion, eggs, ½ cup ketchup, and ½ cup barbecue sauce. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Form Meatloaf Base: Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish to form the base layer.
Bake Meatloaf: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 minutes.
Cook Macaroni: While the meatloaf is baking, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, combine condensed cheddar cheese soup, whole milk, garlic salt, and pepper. Stir over medium heat until smooth and heated through.
Combine Macaroni and Cheese: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly.
Layer Mac and Cheese: Remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spread the macaroni and cheese mixture evenly over the meatloaf layer.
Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top of the macaroni layer.
Final Bake: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
Substitute ground turkey for a leaner meatloaf option.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze portions for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Author: Chef Sofia
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main-course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Halal

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 620
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 1058mg
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 34g
Cholesterol: 177mg