There’s something deeply comforting about a hearty casserole, and for me, Meatloaf Mac Casserole embodies the essence of family gatherings and cherished memories. I still remember the first time I had a dish like this at my Aunt Clara’s home. It was a brisk autumn afternoon, and our family was gathered for what seemed like the hundredth time in her warm, cozy kitchen. The scent of bubbling cheese and savory meatloaf wafted through the air, promising a meal that was both satisfying and comforting.
Aunt Clara was renowned for her ability to turn simple ingredients into something extraordinary. She had this magical knack for transforming everyday meals into special occasions, and her Meatloaf Mac Casserole was no exception. The combination of tender meatloaf layered with creamy macaroni and melted cheese was a crowd-pleaser every single time. What made this dish even more memorable was the way it brought us all together around the table. As we passed the casserole dish and shared stories, laughter echoed through the room, creating a sense of togetherness that was as fulfilling as the meal itself.
Inspired by those family gatherings, I’ve adapted Aunt Clara’s recipe to share with you today. This Meatloaf Mac Casserole is a tribute to those joyous moments and the people who make them special. It’s more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of family, love, and the simple pleasures of home-cooked meals.
To make this casserole, start by blending ketchup and barbecue sauce, giving the meatloaf a tangy, flavorful base. Mix the ground beef with crushed crackers and onion soup mix, forming a savory layer that’s both hearty and comforting. The macaroni, combined with a creamy cheddar cheese sauce and topped with a generous layer of shredded cheese, creates a creamy and cheesy contrast to the savory meatloaf.
Baking it all together brings out the best in each ingredient, resulting in a dish that’s both rich in flavor and nostalgia. The result is a casserole that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy night in. As you dig into this delicious creation, I hope it brings you as much joy and comfort as it has brought to my family over the years.
Making Meatloaf Mac Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup, divided
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 30 buttery crackers, crushed
- 1 (2-ounce) packet onion soup mix
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cups macaroni pasta
- 2 cups milk
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese, divided
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup of ketchup with barbecue sauce until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, blend the ground beef with crushed crackers, onion soup mix, and eggs. Combine thoroughly using your hands.
- Evenly spread the beef mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the ketchup and barbecue sauce mixture over the beef layer.
- Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- While the meatloaf is baking, cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until just tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the milk and cheddar cheese soup until smooth and well blended.
- Season the milk mixture with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, and mix well.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the milk mixture, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Fold in 2 cups of the shredded cheese.
- Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture over the meatloaf and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 17-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Storing Suggestion
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cooking Tips
For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the ketchup mixture. You can also use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to ground beef. If you prefer a crunchier topping, add some crushed crackers on top before the final bake.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, serve with a side of garlic bread or roasted potatoes. A light, crisp white wine or a sparkling water can complement the dish nicely.
Ingredient Substitutions
Instead of buttery crackers, you can use crushed bread crumbs or panko crumbs. For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk and cheddar cheese soup with almond milk and a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also replace ground beef with ground pork or a plant-based meat substitute.
Seasonal Variations
In the fall, you can add diced apples or pumpkin puree to the beef mixture for a seasonal twist. During the winter months, try incorporating some cooked, chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms into the macaroni and cheese mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy and wheat. For dairy-free options, use non-dairy cheese and milk alternatives. To avoid wheat, use gluten-free crackers and pasta. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free if necessary.
FAQ:
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it as directed, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
Can I freeze Meatloaf Mac Casserole?
Absolutely! Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing. Cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread. You might also enjoy it with roasted potatoes or a light, crisp white wine.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gouda, Monterey Jack, or a sharp cheddar can add unique flavors to the casserole.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a dash of hot sauce to the ketchup and barbecue sauce mixture or mix in some chopped jalapeños with the beef. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking.
Can I substitute ground beef with another meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork as alternatives to ground beef. For a vegetarian option, use a plant-based ground meat substitute.
Meatloaf Mac Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup separated
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 pounds ground beef lean
- 30 buttery crackers crushed
- 1 2-ounce packet of onion soup mix
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cups macaroni pasta
- 2 cups milk
- 1 10.5-ounce can of condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese divided
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the ketchup and barbecue sauce until well combined.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed crackers, onion soup mix, and eggs. Mix thoroughly using your hands.
- Transfer the beef mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top the beef with the ketchup mixture.
- Bake the meatloaf for 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the milk and cheddar cheese soup until smooth.
- Add the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the milk mixture and whisk until blended.
- Stir the cooked macaroni into the milk mixture until evenly coated.
- Mix in 2 cups of the shredded cheese.
- Pour the macaroni mixture over the beef layer and spread it out evenly.
- Top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake for 17-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and starting to brown.
- Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.
