Mac Cheese Meatloaf Comfort has always been my ultimate go-to when I need a hug on a plate. I vividly remember my mom making a version of this years ago, and the aroma of savory beef mixed with creamy, cheesy pasta filling our house always signaled pure happiness. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a memory maker. This mac and cheese meatloaf recipe is my adaptation, perfected over time, and it’s so incredibly satisfying. It’s the definition of an easy mac and cheese meatloaf dinner, guaranteed to please everyone at the table. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Mac Cheese Meatloaf Comfort
This dish is pure happiness in every bite! Here’s why it’s a winner:
- Incredible taste: A perfect blend of savory meatloaf and creamy, cheesy pasta.
- Quick prep: Ready to bake in just 15 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
- Budget-friendly: Uses common pantry staples for an affordable family feast.
- Family-favorite: Even picky eaters will devour this kid-friendly mac and cheese meatloaf.
- Ultimate comfort food: This comfort food mac and cheese meatloaf is like a warm hug.
- Hearty and satisfying: It’s a filling meal that will keep everyone happy.
- Easy to make: Simple steps mean less stress in the kitchen.
- It’s pure comfort food mac and cheese meatloaf magic!
Ingredients for Mac Cheese Meatloaf Comfort
Gather these ingredients to create your ultimate comfort food experience. This recipe brings together the best of both worlds, making it a truly special meatloaf with macaroni and cheese.
- 240 ml ketchup – for a sweet and tangy topping
- 240 ml hickory and brown sugar barbecue sauce – adds depth and smokiness
- 900 g lean ground beef – the hearty base of our meatloaf
- 30 Ritz crackers, crushed – these create a tender texture, much better than plain breadcrumbs
- 56 g onion soup mix – a secret weapon for savory flavor
- 2 large eggs – to bind everything together
- 340 g dried macaroni noodles – the cheesy pasta component
- 480 ml whole milk – for a creamy cheese sauce
- 298 g condensed cheddar cheese soup – the key to that irresistible cheesy flavor
- 5 ml salt – to enhance all the flavors
- 5 ml ground black pepper – for a touch of warmth
- 15 ml garlic powder – essential for savory depth
- 15 ml onion powder – complements the fresh onion
- 450 g shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend – for that gooey, melted cheese factor
How to Make Mac Cheese Meatloaf Comfort
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Make sure to grease a 23×33 cm (9×13 inch) baking dish so nothing sticks.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, thoroughly mix the 240 ml ketchup and 240 ml hickory and brown sugar barbecue sauce. This blend creates a wonderfully flavorful topping. Set it aside for later.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the 900 g lean ground beef with the 30 Ritz crackers, crushed, 56 g onion soup mix, and 2 large eggs. Add about 120 ml of the reserved ketchup-barbecue mixture. Gently blend everything with your hands until it’s just combined. Don’t overmix, or your meatloaf can become tough!
- Step 4: Evenly press the meatloaf mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread the remaining ketchup-barbecue mixture smoothly over the top.
- Step 5: Bake for 30 minutes. You’ll start to smell that delicious savory aroma filling your kitchen.
- Step 6: While the meatloaf is baking, cook your 340 g dried macaroni noodles according to the package directions in salted boiling water. Drain them really well once they’re tender.
- Step 7: In a large bowl, whisk together the 480 ml whole milk and the 298 g condensed cheddar cheese soup until you have a smooth, creamy sauce. Stir in the 5 ml salt, 5 ml ground black pepper, 15 ml garlic powder, and 15 ml onion powder. This is where the magic happens for that cheesy meatloaf with mac and cheese!
- Step 8: Gently fold the drained, cooked macaroni noodles and 225 g shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend into the creamy sauce.
- Step 9: Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Evenly spoon the cheesy macaroni mixture over the partially baked meatloaf. Sprinkle the remaining 225 g cheese blend all over the top for that ultimate gooey finish.
- Step 10: Bake for an additional 17–20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. The combination of the savory meatloaf and the cheesy meatloaf with mac and cheese is irresistible. Let this hearty mac and cheese meatloaf bake rest for several minutes before slicing and serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Mac Cheese Meatloaf Comfort
Want to elevate your Mac Cheese Meatloaf Comfort even further? Here are a few tricks I’ve picked up that make all the difference:
- For an extra layer of flavor in the macaroni, try adding some cooked bacon bits or finely diced sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms to the cheese sauce before layering it over the meatloaf.
- Don’t skip the resting time! Letting the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes after baking allows the flavors to meld and makes it much easier to slice cleanly.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, you can briefly broil the casserole for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, watching it carefully to prevent burning.
What’s the secret to perfect Mac Cheese Meatloaf Comfort?
The secret to a truly perfect Mac Cheese Meatloaf Comfort lies in the creamy cheese sauce and the tender texture of the meatloaf itself. Using condensed cheddar cheese soup combined with milk creates an incredibly rich and smooth sauce, while crushed Ritz crackers in the meatloaf ensure it stays moist and flavorful. For more tips on achieving perfect textures in your cooking, check out this guide on the science of cooking meatloaf.
Can I make Mac Cheese Meatloaf Comfort ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish, minus the final cheese topping, up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add the remaining cheese and bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the total cook time to ensure it’s heated through. This is a great make-ahead option, similar to how you might prepare pumpkin cinnamon rolls the night before.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Mac Cheese Meatloaf Comfort?
A common pitfall is overmixing the meatloaf, which can make it tough. Mix just until combined. Also, ensure your macaroni is well-drained before adding it to the cheese sauce to prevent a watery casserole. Finally, don’t overbake the meatloaf before adding the mac and cheese layer; it should be mostly cooked through.
Best Ways to Serve Mac Cheese Meatloaf Comfort
This hearty dish is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with simple sides to round out the meal. For a truly comforting mac and cheese meatloaf casserole experience, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Steamed broccoli or green beans also make a fantastic, healthy accompaniment. You could also serve it with some garlic bread for extra indulgence – it’s that good!
Nutrition Facts for Mac Cheese Meatloaf Comfort
Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving of this delicious dish:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For more healthy meal ideas, explore our dinner recipes.
How to Store and Reheat Mac Cheese Meatloaf Comfort
Once this hearty mac and cheese meatloaf bake has cooled a bit, you’ll want to store it properly to keep it delicious for later. Let the casserole cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes before transferring it to airtight containers. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to stash some away for longer, this dish freezes beautifully. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can pop a slice in the microwave for a quick warm-up, or for the best results, place it in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) until heated through and bubbly again.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mac Cheese Meatloaf Comfort
What makes this Mac Cheese Meatloaf Comfort so special?
This dish is special because it perfectly marries two beloved comfort foods: hearty meatloaf and creamy, cheesy macaroni. The combination is incredibly satisfying and delivers a nostalgic flavor profile that’s hard to beat. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
How to make mac and cheese meatloaf that’s extra cheesy?
To boost the cheesiness when you learn how to make mac and cheese meatloaf, use a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella, as called for in this recipe. You can also add a little extra shredded cheese directly into the meatloaf mixture itself before baking for an even more decadent result. If you love cheese, you might also enjoy our cheesy garlic zucchini steaks.
Can I use different types of pasta for this Mac Cheese Meatloaf Comfort?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic, feel free to experiment with other small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne. Just ensure they are cooked al dente before adding them to the cheese sauce, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
What are the best sides to serve with Mac Cheese Meatloaf Comfort?
This dish is quite rich, so lighter sides work best. A simple garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette, steamed or roasted green beans, or even corn on the cob can provide a nice contrast. Some people also love serving it with mashed potatoes for ultimate comfort! For another comforting side, try our mashed potato cheese puffs.
Variations of Mac Cheese Meatloaf Comfort You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic, don’t be afraid to get creative with your Mac Cheese Meatloaf Comfort! Here are a few fun twists:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to both the meatloaf mixture and the macaroni layer for a little heat.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in finely chopped sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers into the macaroni mixture for added nutrients and flavor. This makes it a great kid-friendly mac and cheese meatloaf option! Consider adding some zucchini to the mix for a healthy boost.
- Smoked Gouda Twist: Swap out some of the cheddar and mozzarella for smoked Gouda in the macaroni layer for a deeper, smoky flavor profile.
- Mini Meatloaves: Instead of one large bake, form the mixture into individual mini meatloaves and top each with the cheesy macaroni. This is fantastic for portion control and quick baking.
Mac Cheese Meatloaf Comfort: Amazing Dinner
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Comfort Food
Description
A comforting and hearty dish that combines the classic flavors of meatloaf with creamy, cheesy macaroni. This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf is perfect for family dinners or any occasion calling for delicious comfort food.
Ingredients
- 240 ml ketchup
- 240 ml hickory and brown sugar barbecue sauce
- 900 g lean ground beef
- 30 Ritz crackers, crushed
- 56 g onion soup mix
- 2 large eggs
- 340 g dried macaroni noodles
- 480 ml whole milk
- 298 g condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 5 ml salt
- 5 ml ground black pepper
- 15 ml garlic powder
- 15 ml onion powder
- 450 g shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 23×33 cm (9×13 inch) baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, thoroughly mix ketchup and barbecue sauce. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine lean ground beef with crushed Ritz crackers, onion soup mix, and eggs. Add 120 ml of the ketchup-barbecue mixture and blend until fully incorporated.
- Evenly press meatloaf mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread remaining ketchup-barbecue mixture over the top.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- While meatloaf bakes, cook macaroni noodles according to package instructions in salted boiling water. Drain well.
- In a large bowl, whisk together milk and condensed cheddar cheese soup until smooth. Mix in salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Fold in cooked macaroni and 225 g shredded cheese.
- Remove baking dish from oven. Evenly spoon macaroni mixture over baked meatloaf. Sprinkle remaining 225 g cheese blend on top.
- Bake an additional 17–20 minutes, or until golden and bubbling. Let casserole rest for several minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider mixing in cooked bacon or vegetables into the macaroni layer.
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg