Cheesy Mac and Meatloaf Layered Casserole

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf Layer:

1 ½ lbs ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg, beaten
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup milk
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Mac and Cheese Layer:

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping:

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Prepare the Meatloaf Layer:

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, onion, milk, ketchup, garlic powder, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until combined.
Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Bake the Meatloaf Base:

Bake the meatloaf layer for 25 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Cook the Macaroni:

While the meatloaf is baking, cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until lightly golden. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Stir in cheddar cheese, mustard powder (if using), salt, and pepper until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Casserole:

Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Spread the mac and cheese evenly over the baked meatloaf layer.
Sprinkle mozzarella, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
Bake the Casserole:

Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Kcal: 490 kcal per serving | Servings: 6