A hearty comfort food casserole combining a juicy meatloaf base with creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese baked on top. It’s everything I crave when I want something indulgent, filling, and downright comforting. This two-in-one dinner classic brings together two family favorites in a single dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings. Meatloaf Mac and Cheese Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe brings the best of both worlds—savory, seasoned meatloaf and rich, creamy mac and cheese—all baked into one glorious dish. The crunchy Ritz crackers add texture to the meatloaf while the cheesy topping gets golden and bubbly in the oven. It’s a total crowd-pleaser, easy to make ahead, and even better as leftovers. Plus, I don’t have to choose between meatloaf and mac—I get both in every bite.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 pounds (≈900 g) lean ground beef (80/20)
30 Ritz crackers, crushed fine
1 packet onion soup mix
2 eggs
1 cup ketchup
1 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for topping, optional)
1 pound macaroni noodles (≈450 g)
1 10.5‑oz can condensed cheddar cheese soup
2 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (≈175°C).
In a small bowl, I mix together the ketchup and BBQ sauce and set it aside.
In a large bowl, I combine the ground beef, crushed crackers, onion soup mix, eggs, and ½ cup of the ketchup-BBQ sauce mixture.
I grease a 9×13‑inch baking dish and press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom. Then I spread the remaining ketchup-BBQ sauce mixture over the top.
I bake the meatloaf base for about 30 minutes.
While that’s baking, I cook the macaroni noodles according to the package directions and drain them.
In a separate bowl, I whisk together the condensed cheddar cheese soup, milk, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and pepper until smooth. I stir in the cooked noodles and half the shredded cheese (about 2 cups).
After the meatloaf has baked for 30 minutes, I remove it from the oven and layer the mac and cheese mixture on top. I sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese (about 2 cups) evenly over it.
I return the dish to the oven and bake for another 20–30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
I let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 to 8 hearty servings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken when I want a lighter version. I’ve also used reduced-fat cheeses and skim milk with good results. When I need a gluten-free option, I switch the Ritz crackers for gluten-free breadcrumbs and use gluten-free macaroni. It’s also easy to prep this dish ahead—just assemble it up to the final bake and refrigerate until I’m ready to pop it in the oven.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers keep really well. I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, I freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in foil or a freezer-safe container. To reheat, I use the oven or microwave until heated through. If I’m reheating from frozen, I let it thaw overnight in the fridge before warming it up.

FAQs

What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?

I like using plain or seasoned breadcrumbs as a substitute. Crushed saltines or even panko work well too.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I often prep the whole dish up to the point where it’s ready for the final bake. I cover and refrigerate it, then bake it fresh when needed.

How can I make it spicier?

To give it a kick, I add a few dashes of hot sauce to the ketchup-BBQ mixture or mix in some diced jalapeños with the mac and cheese.

Is there a way to lighten it up?

Absolutely. I use lean ground turkey, reduced-fat cheese, and skim milk. It still comes out flavorful and satisfying.

What sides go well with this casserole?

I usually pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies to balance out the richness of the dish.

Conclusion

This Meatloaf Mac and Cheese Casserole is my go-to comfort dish when I want something rich, hearty, and family-friendly. It’s easy to customize, holds up well for leftovers, and combines two of my favorite meals into one unforgettable bake. Whether I’m feeding a crowd or just craving something cozy, this casserole always hits the spot.