Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

• 15 Ritz crackers
• 1 pound lean ground beef (90/10)
• 1 (1 oz) packet onion soup mix
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, divided
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 8 oz elbow macaroni noodles
• 2 cups water
• 1 Tbsp butter
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

Instructions

1. 1

   Make the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, onion soup mix, egg, ketchup, 1/4 cup BBQ sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, pepper, and kosher salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

2. 2

   Prepare Macaroni: In a 9×13 inch casserole dish, add the uncooked elbow macaroni noodles, 2 cups of water, and 1 tbsp of butter. Sprinkle the kosher salt over the mixture. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out during baking.

3. 3

   Assemble the Casserole: Spread the meatloaf mixture evenly over the uncooked pasta in the casserole dish. Drizzle 1/4 cup BBQ sauce over the top of the meatloaf layer.

4. 4

   Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole covered with foil for about 45 minutes, until the pasta is tender and the meat is cooked through.

5. 5

   Add Cheese and Milk: Remove the casserole from the oven, uncover, and pour the milk evenly over the top. Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole.

6. 6

   Final Bake to Melt Cheese: Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. 7

   Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving to allow it to set, then scoop into portions and enjoy your hearty, cheesy meatloaf mac and cheese casserole.