Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Prepare the Meatloaf Base:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork (if using), chopped onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared casserole dish, forming an even layer. Set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese (reserve some for topping) and mozzarella (if using). Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Remove from heat once the cheese is melted and smooth.
- Combine Mac and Cheese:
- Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until well coated.
- Spread the mac and cheese evenly on top of the meatloaf base in the casserole dish.
- Top and Bake:
- Sprinkle the reserved shredded cheese on top, and for extra crunch, add breadcrumbs or crispy fried onions if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked and the cheese topping is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Pair with a simple green salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
Tips:
- You can experiment with different cheeses, like sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère, for added flavor.
- For a lower-carb version, use cauliflower in place of the macaroni.
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup—rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor!