This comfort food masterpiece combines juicy, flavorful meatloaf with a creamy, cheesy mac ‘n’ cheese center—baked to golden perfection! It’s the ultimate mashup for meat and cheese lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️
✅ Two comfort foods in one – Meatloaf + mac ‘n’ cheese = genius!
✅ Juicy, cheesy, and crispy – Every bite is pure bliss.
✅ Great for feeding a crowd – Perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Leftovers taste even better – If there are any!
Ingredients You’ll Need 🛒
For the Mac ‘n’ Cheese Filling:
2 cups cooked elbow macaroni (about 1 cup uncooked)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup milk
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt & pepper to taste
For the Meatloaf:
1.5 lbs (680g) ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
½ lb (225g) ground pork (or all beef if preferred)
1 small onion, finely diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt & pepper to taste
For the Glaze (Optional):
¼ cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Mac ‘n’ Cheese Filling
Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour to make a roux.
Add milk, stirring until thickened.
Mix in cheese, garlic powder, salt & pepper, then fold in cooked macaroni. Set aside.
2. Prep the Meatloaf Mixture
In a bowl, combine beef, pork, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire, thyme, paprika, salt & pepper. Mix gently (don’t overwork!).
3. Assemble the Stuffed Meatloaf
On a parchment-lined baking sheet, press ½ the meat mixture into a rectangle (~10×6 inches).
Spread mac ‘n’ cheese down the center, leaving a 1-inch border.
Top with remaining meat, sealing edges tightly.
4. Bake to Perfection
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Brush with glaze (if using) and bake 45-50 mins until internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).
Let rest 10 mins before slicing.
Pro Tips for the Best Meatloaf 🔥
✔ Use a meat thermometer – Prevents drying out.
✔ Chill before baking (optional) – Helps loaf hold shape.
✔ Add bacon – Wrap the loaf in bacon for extra flavor!
Storage: Keeps in the fridge for 3 days (reheats well).
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
✨ With mashed potatoes & green beans – Classic comfort meal.
✨ Leftover sandwiches – Amazing on toasted bread.
✨ Drizzled with extra cheese sauce – Because why not?
Final Verdict: Comfort Food Heaven!
This Mac ‘n’ Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf is juicy, cheesy, and unforgettable—the ultimate family dinner showstopper!
Make it tonight and prepare for compliments!