Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Layer:
1 pound ground beef
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
Milk (enough to moisten the mixture)
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Mac and Cheese Layer:
2 cups uncooked macaroni
2 cups milk
Butter (enough for cooking)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Paprika, to taste
Dry mustard, to taste
Shredded cheddar cheese (as much as desired)
Instructions
Prepare the Meatloaf:
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
In a bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, a splash of milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Press the meat mixture into the bottom of a greased baking dish.
Bake for about 20 minutes.
Cook the Macaroni:
While the meatloaf bakes, cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
Add salt, pepper, paprika, and dry mustard, adjusting to taste.
Pour in the 2 cups of milk and heat until warm.
Stir in the cooked macaroni, mixing thoroughly to make your macaroni and cheese.
Assemble the Casserole:
After the meatloaf has baked for 20 minutes, remove it from the oven.
Spread the macaroni and cheese evenly on top of the meatloaf.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously on top.
Final Bake:
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve:
Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and enjoy! This fun casserole is perfect for potlucks, combining your main and side dish in one easy recipe.
Tips:
Avoid overcooking the meatloaf during the initial bake; it will finish cooking after adding the macaroni and cheese layer.
Feel free to adjust the recipe to your preferences by using your favorite meatloaf or mac and cheese variations!