Step 1: Preheat & Prep
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) .
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Press half the mixture into the baking dish.
Step 3: Layer the Magic
- Spread a layer of cooked macaroni over the meatloaf base.
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the pasta.
Step 4: Top & Bake
- Cover with remaining meatloaf mixture and press down.
- Sprinkle crushed crackers and Parmesan over the top.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Cool & Serve
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve hot with garlic bread or coleslaw.
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Variations to Elevate Your Casserole
- Gluten-Free : Use GF breadcrumbs and certified GF pasta.
- Vegan : Substitute meat with lentil-walnut mix and use vegan cheese.
- Seafood Twist : Replace ground beef with flaked salmon or tuna.
- Spicy Hack : Add 2 tbsp hot sauce to the meat mixture or top with jalapeños.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Refrigerate : Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days .
- Freeze : Freeze unbaked casserole for 3 months . Thaw and bake as directed.
- Party Hack : Double the batch and serve in individual ramekins for portion control.
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FAQs: Answering Your Top Questions
Q: Can I use frozen mac and cheese?
A: Yes! Thaw in the fridge overnight and layer as directed.
Q: How to prevent a dry casserole?
A: Avoid overbaking—remove when the center is still slightly jiggly (it firms up as it cools).
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Assemble and refrigerate overnight—bake just before serving.
Q: What if I don’t have Ritz crackers?
A: Substitute with crushed potato chips or cornflakes for a crispy topping.
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