Why You’ll Love This Mac n Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf with a Twist

Hey there, fellow food lovers! Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that’s as comforting as a warm hug and as exciting as a surprise party? Then get ready to meet your new favorite weeknight dinner: this ultimate mac and cheese-stuffed meatloaf! Forget everything you thought you knew about meatloaf – this recipe is a game-changer.

Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy, flavorful meatloaf, bursting with the warm, cheesy embrace of perfectly cooked macaroni and cheese. The texture is incredible: tender meatloaf on the outside, yielding to a molten core of cheesy pasta. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will dance on your tongue. This isn’t your grandma’s meatloaf (unless your grandma is a culinary genius!). We’ve taken the classic and elevated it to a whole new level of deliciousness. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make! This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight, a weekend family dinner, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. It’s guaranteed to please everyone at the table, from picky eaters to adventurous foodies. Prepare to be amazed by the delightful aroma that will fill your kitchen while it bakes – pure comfort food magic! You’ll be saying goodbye to boring dinners and hello to a truly unforgettable meal. So grab your aprons, friends, and let’s get cooking!

The Ultimate Mac n Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf with a Twist

What You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry and fridge. Here’s what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece:

1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended): This gives you the perfect balance of lean and fat for a juicy meatloaf.
1 cup elbow macaroni: The classic shape holds the cheesy sauce beautifully.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar is best, but feel free to experiment with your favorite blend!
1 cup breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatloaf and add a lovely texture. Panko breadcrumbs work great too!
1 cup milk: Creates a creamy mac and cheese filling.
1 large egg: Acts as a binder for the meatloaf, ensuring it holds its shape.
1 small onion, diced: Adds a savory depth of flavor to both the meatloaf and the mac and cheese.
2 cloves garlic, minced: A touch of garlic elevates the entire dish.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a subtle umami richness to the meatloaf.
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs: A classic blend of oregano, basil, and thyme adds a fragrant herbaceous note.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning!
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled turkey sausage (for flavor): This adds a surprising layer of savory depth. Feel free to use Italian sausage instead for a bolder flavor.
Cooking spray or oil for greasing: To prevent sticking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get this deliciousness underway! Follow these simple steps to create the ultimate mac and cheese-stuffed meatloaf:

Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or oil. This simple step prevents sticking and ensures easy removal later.
Cook the Macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Make the Mac and Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, and half of the milk. Stir gently to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked and crumbled turkey sausage, diced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Italian herbs, breadcrumbs, remaining milk, and egg. Gently mix with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
Assemble the Meatloaf: Shape half of the meatloaf mixture into a log shape in the prepared loaf pan. Spread the macaroni and cheese mixture evenly over the meatloaf base. Top with the remaining meatloaf mixture, sealing the edges to enclose the cheesy filling.
Bake the Meatloaf: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). You can check the doneness using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meatloaf.
Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.
Garnish and Enjoy!: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired. Serve immediately and savor every delicious bite! A side of mashed potatoes or a simple green salad complements this hearty dish perfectly.

Tips for Success

To ensure your mac and cheese-stuffed meatloaf turns out perfectly, here are a few helpful tips:

Don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture. Overmixing can result in a tough meatloaf.
Make sure the macaroni is well-drained before adding it to the cheese mixture. Excess moisture can make the filling watery.
If you prefer a crispier top, broil the meatloaf for the last few minutes of cooking time. Watch closely to avoid burning.
For an even richer flavor, sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the meatloaf mixture.
Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through.

Variations to Try

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few ways to customize your mac and cheese-stuffed meatloaf:

Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture for a spicy kick.
Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses.
Veggie boost: Add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the meatloaf mixture.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
Vegetarian version: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover mac and cheese-stuffed meatloaf is just as delicious the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Storing: Allow the meatloaf to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can also freeze leftover meatloaf for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in a freezer bag.
Reheating: Reheat slices of meatloaf in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this recipe:

Q: Can I use different types of pasta besides elbow macaroni?

A: Yes! While elbow macaroni is classic, you can experiment with other small pasta shapes, such as shells, ditalini, or even small rotini. Just ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the cheese mixture.

Q: How long does the meatloaf keep in the refrigerator?

A: Properly stored in an airtight container, the meatloaf will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and the mac and cheese filling ahead of time and assemble the meatloaf just before baking. You can also assemble the entire meatloaf the day before and bake it the following day. Just keep it refrigerated.

Q: What side dishes pair well with this meatloaf?

A: This mac and cheese stuffed meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a simple green salad, or even some crusty bread for dipping into the pan juices.

Q: Can I use a different type of sausage?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with Italian sausage for a more robust flavor, or omit the sausage entirely for a simpler version.

The Final Word

This ultimate mac and cheese-stuffed meatloaf is a true crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to become a family favorite. The combination of savory meatloaf and creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese is simply irresistible. The recipe is easy to follow, and the results are unbelievably delicious. So, what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try and experience the comfort food magic for yourself! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out – and rate the recipe if you enjoyed it! Happy cooking!

The Ultimate Mac n Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf with a Twist 🍽️🧀

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup elbow macaroni
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 small onion diced
– 2 cloves garlic minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled turkey sausage for flavor
– Cooking spray or oil for greasing

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.
Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they soften, about 3-4 minutes.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked turkey sausage, sautéed onions and garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
Gently fold in the cooked macaroni and half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the meat mixture.
Transfer half of the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan, press it down evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese, then add the rest of the meat mixture on top, sealing the cheese inside.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and a meat thermometer reads 160°F (70°C).
Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, and enjoy the cheesy surprise inside!