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Introduction
The Ultimate Mac ‘n’ Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf is a comfort food dream come true. It combines the savory, tender bite of classic meatloaf with the rich, creamy decadence of mac ‘n’ cheese baked right into the center. It’s a creative mash-up that delivers bold flavor, nostalgic appeal, and a wow-factor perfect for family dinners or potluck parties.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Meatloaf, a staple of mid-century American cuisine, was originally a budget-friendly dish made with ground meat and filler ingredients. Macaroni and cheese, with roots in European cuisine and deep ties to American comfort food traditions, became a household favorite in the 20th century. The fusion of these two iconic dishes speaks to modern culinary creativity—blending hearty classics to create a meal that’s both familiar and surprising.
Ingredients & Quantity
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for topping, optional)
For the Mac ‘n’ Cheese Filling:
- 1 ½ cups cooked elbow macaroni
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Additions
- Add crispy bacon bits to the mac for extra crunch
- Use a cheese blend like cheddar, mozzarella, and gouda for depth
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs or French-fried onions on top for texture
- Include diced jalapeños or hot sauce in the mac for heat
- Swap BBQ sauce for ketchup glaze or tomato-balsamic mix
Tips for Success
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture—it can make the loaf tough
- Use cooled mac and cheese to make stuffing easier and cleaner
- Line your loaf pan with foil or parchment for easy removal
- Rest meatloaf after baking to keep it moist and easier to slice
- Bake uncovered for the last 10 minutes for a caramelized glaze
Instructions
- Prepare the Mac ‘n’ Cheese:
In a saucepan, combine cooked macaroni, shredded cheddar, milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Stir over low heat until cheese is melted and creamy. Set aside to cool slightly. - Mix the Meatloaf:
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and ½ cup BBQ sauce. Mix until just combined. - Assemble the Meatloaf:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a loaf pan or on a lined baking sheet, press half the meatloaf mixture into a rectangle. Create a trench in the center and spoon in the cooled mac ‘n’ cheese. Cover with the remaining meat mixture, sealing edges well. - Bake:
Bake for 45–55 minutes or until the meat reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). If desired, brush with additional BBQ sauce in the last 10 minutes of baking. - Rest and Serve:
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with extra mac and cheese or a green vegetable on the side.
Description
This meatloaf is a total showstopper—crisp on the outside with juicy, flavorful meat and a gooey mac ‘n’ cheese core. It’s indulgent, hearty, and deeply satisfying, with the BBQ glaze adding a sweet and smoky finish that ties everything together.
Nutritional Information (Per serving, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: ~520
- Fat: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 32g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fiber: 1g
Conclusion
The Ultimate Mac ‘n’ Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf elevates two classic comfort foods into one unforgettable dish. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just want to treat yourself to a cozy dinner, this recipe delivers on flavor, nostalgia, and fun.
Recommendation
Pair with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even extra BBQ sauce on the side. It also reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers with flair.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Looking to lighten it up? Use lean ground turkey or chicken, swap in whole wheat pasta, and try reduced-fat cheese. You can also make individual muffin-sized portions for easier portion control without sacrificing the cheesy goodness inside.
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