Instructions
Cook Pasta: Boil pasta shells in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make Meat Mixture: In a skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in egg, breadcrumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. (Or mix raw and bake directly in the casserole if you prefer a true “meatloaf” texture.)
Cheddar Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour, and cook 1 minute. Slowly whisk in warm milk until smooth and thickened. Stir in cheddar cheese, mustard powder, salt, and pepper until creamy.
Assemble Casserole:
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked shells with cheese sauce.
Stir in the meat mixture until evenly combined.
Spread evenly and top with a drizzle of ketchup (classic meatloaf touch).
Bake: Place in preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Tips & Variations:
Use a mix of ground beef and pork for richer flavor.
Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder taste.
Add green peas or diced bell peppers for extra texture.
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