1. **Prepare the Macaroni:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
– Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. **Prepare the Meatloaf Layer:**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and ketchup. Mix gently until all ingredients are well combined.
– Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even layer.
3. **Make the Cheese Sauce for Macaroni:**
– In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, until the mixture is lightly golden and bubbly (this forms a roux).
– Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens and begins to simmer.
– Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. **Combine the Mac and Cheese:**
– Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until all the pasta is evenly coated.
5. **Assemble the Casserole:**
– Spread the mac and cheese mixture evenly over the meatloaf layer in the baking dish. If desired, drizzle additional ketchup over the top of the mac and cheese for added flavor.
6. **Bake the Casserole:**
– Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through (reaching an internal temperature of 160°F or 70°C) and the cheese on top is bubbly and slightly golden.
7. **Serve:**
– Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the layers to set and makes serving easier.
### Tips:
– **Customize the Cheese:** Feel free to mix in different types of cheese like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Colby for different flavors.
– **Add Veggies:** For added nutrition, you can mix in some sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms into the meatloaf layer.
– **Make Ahead:** This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
– **Serving Size:** This recipe serves about 6-8 people, depending on portion size.
Enjoy your **Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole**—a delicious comfort food fusion that combines two favorite dishes into one!
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