Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9 by 13-inch baking dish with oil or butter.
2. Prepare Meatloaf: In a bowl, mix the ketchup and barbecue sauce together and set aside. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with the crushed Ritz crackers, Lipton onion soup mix, and eggs. Stir in half a cup of the ketchup-barbecue sauce mixture. Mix until well combined. Spread the meatloaf mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining ketchup-barbecue sauce mixture.
3. Bake Meatloaf: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
4. Prepare Macaroni and Cheese: Cook the macaroni pasta according to package instructions, then drain. In a large bowl, mix the milk and cheddar cheese soup concentrate until smooth. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir in the cooked macaroni and 2 cups of shredded cheese.
5. Assemble Casserole: Remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spread the macaroni and cheese mixture evenly over the meatloaf. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
6. Bake Casserole: Return to the oven and bake for an additional 17-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Notes:

• Cheese Choices: Feel free to use your favorite cheese blend.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crackers, soup mix, and macaroni to make this dish gluten-free.
• Make-Ahead: This casserole can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving.

Enjoy this scrumptious Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole at your next family meal or gathering!