1-Getting started: Getting started with this mac and cheese meatloaf is as easy as preheating your oven and gathering your ingredients. Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and mixing 1 cup ketchup with 1 cup barbecue sauce set that aside for later. In a large bowl, combine 2 pounds lean ground beef, 30 crushed crackers, 2 ounces onion soup mix, 2 large eggs, and half of the sauce mixture, mixing gently to keep everything tender.

2-Preparing the meatloaf: Press this mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the rest of the sauce on top, then bake for 30 minutes. While that’s cooking, prepare 3 cups macaroni noodles according to the package, drain them, and whisk together 2 cups milk, 10.5 ounces condensed cheddar cheese soup, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon pepper, 1 tablespoon garlic powder, and 1 tablespoon onion powder until smooth. Stir in the macaroni and 2 cups shredded cheese.

3-Final assembly and baking: Remove the meatloaf from the oven, spread the mac and cheese mixture evenly over it, top with the remaining 2 cups shredded cheese, and bake for another 17 to 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden. Let it rest a bit before slicing this helps keep the juices locked in. If you’re looking for more recipe ideas, check out our blog’s easy casserole recipes for more family favorites.