1. Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Meatloaf Mixture
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together 1 lb ground beef, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup ketchup, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
- Shape into a Loaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the prepared baking dish. The center of the dish works best, leaving space around the edges for the macaroni mixture.
3. Cook the Macaroni
- Boil the Macaroni: In a separate pot, cook 2 cups elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- Melt the Butter: In the same pot used for the macaroni, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in 1/2 cup milk, followed by 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese and the drained diced tomatoes. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the Cooked Macaroni: Mix in the cooked macaroni until it is well-coated in the cheese sauce.
5. Assemble the Bake
- Surround the Meatloaf: Spoon the macaroni and cheese mixture around the meatloaf in the baking dish, ensuring an even distribution.
6. Bake It
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the top is slightly golden.
7. Serve Hot
- Plate and Enjoy: Serve the cheesy meatloaf macaroni bake hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and flavor.
Valuable Cooking Tips
- Tip #1: Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly. Shredding your own cheese creates a creamier sauce.
- Tip #2: Add a Cheese Crust: For a crispier topping, sprinkle extra cheese and breadcrumbs over the top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Tip #3: Let the Meatloaf Rest Before Serving: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes helps retain its juices.
- Tip #4: Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
- Tip #5: Try Other Cheeses for a Twist: Substitute half of the cheddar with mozzarella, pepper jack, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerating Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual portions in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. The dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings on medium power.
