Mac and Cheese Meatloaf (Printable Version)
Hearty meatloaf meets cheesy macaroni in an irresistible baked casserole. #comfortfood #cheesylayers #familydinner
# Ingredients:
→ Meatloaf Layer
01 -
15 Ritz crackers, finely crushed
02 -
1 pound lean ground beef (90/10)
03 -
1 ounce onion soup mix
04 -
1 large egg
05 -
1/4 cup ketchup
06 -
1/2 cup barbecue sauce, divided
→ Mac and Cheese Layer
07 -
2 cups water
08 -
8 ounces elbow macaroni
09 -
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
10 -
1 teaspoon kosher salt
11 -
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
12 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
13 -
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
14 -
1/2 cup milk
15 -
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
# Steps:
01 -
Set oven to 350°F to allow sufficient preheating.
02 -
In a large bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers, lean ground beef, onion soup mix, egg, ketchup, and half of the barbecue sauce. Blend thoroughly until evenly incorporated.
03 -
Press the prepared meat mixture firmly and evenly into the base of a casserole dish to create a uniform layer.
04 -
Boil elbow macaroni in 2 cups of water following packaging instructions until al dente, then drain well.
05 -
Mix drained macaroni with butter, kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, ground black pepper, milk, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese in a large bowl until cheese is melted and pasta is coated.
06 -
Spread the macaroni and cheese mixture evenly over the meatloaf layer in the casserole dish.
07 -
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the pasta and drizzle with remaining barbecue sauce. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and top is bubbling.
# Notes:
01 -
Add cooked diced vegetables or crispy bacon to the mac and cheese layer for extra flavor and texture.
02 -
A blend of cheeses such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella enhances richness in the cheese layer.