A Comfort Food Mashup You Didn’t Know You Needed
If you’re a fan of bold, over-the-top comfort food, this Baked Mac and Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf is going to blow your mind 🤯. It combines two American classics — creamy mac and cheese and juicy meatloaf — into one unforgettable dish that’s perfect for special dinners, cozy weekends, or when you’re hosting guests who love indulgent eats 🍽️🇺🇸.
The mac and cheese is tucked right inside the meatloaf, so every slice is gooey, savory, and loaded with flavor 😋.
🧾 Ingredients
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 eggs
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
🔪 Instructions
1. Make the Mac and Cheese 🧀
Boil the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and return to the pot.
Add butter, milk, cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir over low heat until melted and creamy. Let it cool slightly so it firms up a bit.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture 🍖
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix with your hands until well blended — but don’t overwork it.
3. Assemble the Stuffed Meatloaf 🧱
On a sheet of parchment paper, press out ⅔ of the meatloaf mix into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.
Spoon the mac and cheese into the center, leaving about an inch from the edges.
Top with the remaining meat mixture and press down, sealing the edges like a package. Shape into a loaf.
4. Add the Topping 🧴
Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread it generously over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake It 🔥
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer meatloaf to a baking dish.
Bake uncovered for 60–70 minutes or until the internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).
Let rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing — this is important so the mac and cheese doesn’t ooze out too early.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair it with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad 🥦🥔🥗. You can also serve it as a sandwich filling on toasted brioche for an epic leftover lunch!
💡 Tips & Variations
- Add chopped cooked bacon to the mac and cheese for extra smokiness 🥓
- Use ground turkey or pork instead of beef if you prefer
- Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeños 🌶️
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❤️ Final Thoughts
This meatloaf isn’t just a meal — it’s an event 🍽️. With gooey mac and cheese at its center and a savory glaze on top, it’ll become a family favorite in no time. Perfect for cozy nights or wowing your guests!