Mac and Cheese Meatloaf (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Meatloaf

01 - 1 lb ground beef
02 - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
03 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
04 - 1/4 cup milk
05 - 1/4 cup ketchup
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 1 tsp garlic powder
08 - 1 tsp onion powder
09 - 1 tsp salt
10 - 1/2 tsp black pepper

→ Mac and Cheese

11 - 2 cups elbow macaroni
12 - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
13 - 2 cups milk
14 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter
15 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
16 - 1/2 tsp mustard powder
17 - Salt and black pepper to taste

→ Topping

18 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
19 - 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, ketchup, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until fully combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the meatloaf layer.
03 - In a pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
04 - In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
05 - Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the macaroni is well coated.
06 - Spread the mac and cheese mixture evenly over the meatloaf layer in the baking dish. Sprinkle the additional shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs on top.
07 - Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
08 - Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

# Notes:

01 - This hearty casserole combines two classic comfort foods into one satisfying dish, perfect for family dinners.