Ultimate Mac ‘N’ Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf
The comfort food mash-up you didn’t know you needed.
Craving something indulgent, cheesy, and downright satisfying? This Mac ‘N’ Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf takes two classics and fuses them into one unforgettable dinner. Creamy mac nestled inside a juicy beef meatloaf, all finished with a sweet and tangy glaze? Yeah, it’s as epic as it sounds.
Ingredients
For the Ooey-Gooey Mac ‘N’ Cheese Filling:
- 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Savory Meatloaf:
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
For That Glorious Glaze:
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or foil, and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.
2. Make the Mac ‘N’ Cheese
Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and return to the pot.
Stir in butter, cheddar, mozzarella, and milk until creamy and smooth.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, then allow to cool slightly.
3. Mix the Meatloaf
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
Use your hands (gently!) to mix until everything is well incorporated.
4. Stuff the Loaf
Press half of the meat mixture into the bottom and up the sides of your prepared loaf pan, creating a well in the center.
Spoon the mac ‘n’ cheese into the well, leaving a small border around the edges.
Top with the remaining meat mixture, pressing it down and sealing the edges to lock in all that cheesy goodness.
5. Glaze & Bake
Mix together the glaze ingredients and brush generously over the top of your meatloaf.
Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Rest, Slice & Devour
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve warm with a scoop of extra mac on the side (because why not?).
Recipe Notes
- Cheese swap! Want a sharper bite? Try white cheddar or gouda in the filling.
- Add crunch: A sprinkle of buttery breadcrumbs on top before baking adds a little texture.
- Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully — if you’re lucky enough to have leftovers!
Nutrition Info (Per Serving):
Calories: 580 kcal
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
