Creamy Meatloaf Pasta Bake

Mix up your family dinner with this cheesy meatloaf mac casserole. It brings together your favorite comfort meals in one tasty dish that everyone will gobble up. The tasty meat base with creamy mac and cheese on top makes for an amazing meal when you want something filling and comforting.

I came up with this dish during a super cold winter when we needed some real stick-to-your-ribs food. My teens now ask for this as their special birthday meal every year, which really tells you just how yummy it actually is.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Go for 85% lean to get good flavor and juiciness without making it too greasy
• Ritz crackers: They give a buttery taste and soft texture that's way better than plain breadcrumbs
• Lipton onion soup mix: This handy ingredient adds tons of flavor without needing to chop any onions
• Eggs: These hold everything together so your meatloaf doesn't fall apart
• Ketchup and barbecue sauce: This mix makes a perfect sweet-tangy topping that browns nicely
• Macaroni noodles: Try shells or elbows since they catch all the cheesy sauce in their little pockets
• Condensed cheddar cheese soup: Makes a super smooth sauce without having to mess with flour and butter
• Shredded cheese blend: Mixing mozzarella and cheddar gives you both melty stretch and rich taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the sauce:

Mix up the ketchup and Sweet Baby Ray's barbecue sauce in a bowl till smooth. This combo makes a rich flavor with sweet, smoky and tangy notes that makes the whole dish better. Save about half for the top.

Mix the meatloaf:

Smash the Ritz crackers into small bits but not dust. Throw them in with the beef along with the Lipton mix, eggs and half cup of your sauce. Mix lightly with your hands just until combined. Don't overwork it or you'll get tough meatloaf – stop when everything's mixed in.

Form and bake base layer:

Push the meat mix into your greased dish, making a flat layer on the bottom. Use a spoon to spread the rest of your sauce mix on top, going all the way to the edges. This topping will get sticky and brown while cooking, adding amazing taste.

Begin mac and cheese prep:

While your meatloaf cooks for the first 30 minutes, cook your macaroni till it's just firm. Cook it a bit less than normal since it'll keep cooking in the oven. Drain it well so extra water doesn't water down your cheese sauce.

Create cheese sauce:

Stir milk and cheddar soup together until smooth, then add your seasonings. The garlic and onion powders boost the flavor while salt and pepper balance the richness. Mix in your drained pasta and half the cheese until all noodles are covered.

Assemble and finish baking:

Pour the mac and cheese over your partly baked meatloaf, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top. The final baking brings everything together and makes that beautiful brown cheese crust.

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The Lipton onion soup mix is my go-to trick in this dish. I found out how awesome it works when I didn't have time one night to chop fresh onions. The rich flavor it adds makes the meatloaf taste like it cooked for hours even though it comes together pretty fast.

Customization Ideas

You can switch up this dish based on what's in your kitchen. Try ground turkey instead of beef for something lighter, though you might want to add a spoon of olive oil to keep it juicy. The cheese can be whatever you like or have around – from sharp cheddar to monterey jack or even pepper jack if you want some heat.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this filling casserole with a fresh side salad with tangy dressing to balance the richness. Steamed broccoli or green beans work great too. For a total comfort food meal, add some garlic bread on the side to mop up any extra cheese sauce.

Storage and Reheating

This meal's a hit at gatherings or family dinners because it makes everyone happy. Kids love the familiar tastes while adults appreciate the clever combo that's more exciting than regular old casseroles.

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This mac and cheese meatloaf casserole will soon be a family favorite. Enjoy every bite of this cheesy, hearty combo!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Is it possible to prepare Cheesy Meatloaf Pasta Bake in advance?

Absolutely! Prep each layer up to a day prior, refrigerate, and add 10-15 minutes to the baking time. Let the dish come to room temp before putting it in the oven for the best results.

→ What can I use instead of Ritz crackers in the loaf?

Try swapping Ritz crackers with breadcrumbs, crushed saltines, panko, or even instant oats. Each option works as a binder and brings its own texture and flavor twist.

→ How can I tell if the meatloaf is fully done?

A meat thermometer is the easiest way—look for 160°F (71°C) inside. No tool handy? Slice into the center and check for no pink left in the meat.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers from this bake?

Totally! Divide into portions, store in airtight containers, and freeze for up to three months. Defrost in the fridge overnight, then heat through before serving.

→ What sides go well with this meal?

Add balance to the richness with options like garlic green beans, a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or lightly steamed broccoli.

→ Can I switch up the cheese options?

Of course! Use cheeses like Colby, Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack, depending on what you like. They’ll all melt beautifully.