Macaroni Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf: A Comfort Food Delight

Macaroni Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf is a delectable twist on two classic comfort foods. Combining the creamy richness of mac and cheese with the hearty flavor of a juicy meatloaf, this dish is truly a match made in culinary heaven. You’ll adore the creamy cheese, perfectly cooked pasta, and flavorful meat that make this dish a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Macaroni Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. The combination of textures from the gooey mac and cheese filling paired with the savory meatloaf exterior will leave everyone wanting more. It’s perfect for gatherings, making a memorable centerpiece that surprises and delights your guests. Plus, it’s an excellent make-ahead meal, ideal for busy weeknights.

Not only is this dish incredibly delicious, but it also brings a sense of nostalgia. Both macaroni and cheese and meatloaf are perennial favorites that evoke the warmth and comfort of home-cooked meals. With this recipe, you capture the essence of both in every bite.

Context/Background

The origins of this dish are rooted in the merging of two beloved comfort foods—meatloaf, a staple of American cuisine, and macaroni cheese, a universally loved pasta dish. Meatloaf’s history dates back to ancient times and has evolved tremendously, while macaroni cheese offers rich Italian roots. The fusion invites innovation, inviting home cooks to explore new flavors and textures.

Stuffed meatloaves have become a popular twist on traditional preparations, incorporating diverse fillings to add layers of taste and surprise. This Macaroni Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf is a testament to the creativity and versatility of home cooking.

Recipe Details

Serves: 6-8

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups macaroni and cheese, prepared
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well-blended.
3. Spread a piece of parchment paper on a flat surface. Flatten the meat mixture into an even rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick.
4. Spread the prepared macaroni and cheese evenly over the meat, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the macaroni and cheese.
6. Using the parchment paper to help, carefully roll the meatloaf from one end to the other to form a loaf shape. Seal the edges and ends to enclose the filling completely.
7. Transfer the meatloaf to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top with barbecue sauce.
8. Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the top is glazed and caramelized.
9. Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Perfect Macaroni Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf

• Ensure the mac and cheese is thick and not too runny to prevent it from leaking during the cooking process.
• Chill the prepared mac and cheese before filling the meatloaf for easier handling.
• Use a mix of cheeses in the mac and cheese for a more complex flavor.
• Allow the meatloaf to rest after baking to ensure it holds its shape when sliced.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this meatloaf with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the dish. Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables also make excellent accompaniments.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results. You can also freeze the meatloaf for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a recipe that combines the best of two comfort food classics, this Macaroni Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf is a must-try. It’s uniquely delicious, incredibly satisfying, and sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Recipe Notes

• Feel free to add cooked bacon bits to the mac and cheese filling for added flavor.
• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the meatloaf.
• Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture if you like a bit of heat.