This indulgent twist on a classic comfort dish combines two beloved favorites—meatloaf and mac ‘n’ cheese—into one spectacular meal. Juicy, seasoned beef forms the perfect shell for a creamy, cheesy pasta center, making this the ultimate family-style dinner with a fun and flavorful surprise inside.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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A Two-in-One Comfort Classic: Combines rich meatloaf with creamy macaroni and cheese in every slice.
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Impressively Simple: Despite its stunning presentation, it’s easy to prepare with common ingredients.
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Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing: A fun dish that satisfies both children and adults.
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Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepped in advance and baked when ready to serve.
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Flavor-Packed: Seasoned beef and BBQ glaze bring smoky, savory notes to complement the creamy filling.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the meatloaf:
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2 lbs ground beef
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1 cup breadcrumbs
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1 egg
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½ cup milk
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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½ cup BBQ sauce
For the mac ‘n’ cheese filling:
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1½ cups cooked macaroni
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1 tablespoon butter
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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¼ cup milk
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Salt and pepper to taste
directions
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Prepare the Macaroni and Cheese
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, cheddar cheese, and milk. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth. Add cooked macaroni and stir to coat. Season with salt and pepper. Let cool slightly. -
Mix the Meatloaf Base
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until just combined—do not overwork the meat. -
Assemble the Meatloaf
On a piece of parchment or foil, press half of the meat mixture into a rectangle, about 1 inch thick. Spoon the cooled mac and cheese down the center, leaving space around the edges. Top with the remaining meat mixture and seal the edges to encase the macaroni. -
Shape and Glaze
Transfer the meatloaf to a baking dish or sheet pan. Shape it into a loaf and brush the top with BBQ sauce. -
Bake
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. -
Serve
Slice and serve warm, optionally with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
Servings and timing
Yield: Serves 6–8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Rest Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Variations
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Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños to the mac ‘n’ cheese or a pinch of cayenne to the meat mixture.
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Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap the loaf in bacon before baking for added smokiness and a crispy exterior.
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Cheese Blend: Use a mix of mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack in the filling for varied flavor.
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Mini Loaves: Form into individual portions for quicker cooking and easy serving.
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Low-Carb: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
storage/reheating
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Reheat slices in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals. Add a splash of milk or water if the mac ‘n’ cheese filling appears dry.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the meatloaf up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
What’s the best cheese for the filling?
Cheddar is classic, but feel free to use a combination of cheeses like mozzarella and Gruyère for added richness.
How do I keep the mac ‘n’ cheese from leaking out?
Ensure the meat layer fully encases the filling and is sealed tightly before baking.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead?
Yes, but adjust the cook time and ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What’s a good side dish for this meatloaf?
Steamed green beans, roasted vegetables, or a crisp side salad complement the richness well.
Can I freeze the meatloaf?
Yes, freeze it either before baking (assembled and wrapped tightly) or after baking and cooling completely.
How do I prevent the meatloaf from drying out?
Do not overbake, and allow it to rest after baking so the juices redistribute.
Can I use boxed mac and cheese for the filling?
Yes, boxed mac and cheese works in a pinch, but homemade offers better texture and flavor.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
Finely chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms can be mixed into the meat for added flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
The Ultimate Mac ‘n’ Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf takes comfort food to the next level with a gooey, cheesy center wrapped in seasoned beef and glazed with BBQ sauce. It’s a memorable dish that combines nostalgia with creativity, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you want to impress with minimal fuss.
Print
The Ultimate Mac ‘n’ Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
Description
Get ready to wow your taste buds with this indulgent twist on a classic comfort food—Mac ‘n’ Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf. Juicy, flavorful meatloaf hugs a creamy, cheesy mac center, creating the ultimate crowd-pleasing dinner that’s both hearty and unforgettable.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
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2 lbs ground beef
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1 cup breadcrumbs
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1 egg
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1/2 cup milk
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1 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1/2 cup BBQ sauce
For the Mac ‘n’ Cheese Filling:
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2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
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1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup milk
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2 tablespoons butter
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1 tablespoon flour
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Preheat Oven:
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Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment or spray with cooking spray.
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Make the Mac ‘n’ Cheese:
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In a saucepan, melt butter, stir in flour to make a roux. Cook for 1 minute.
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Slowly whisk in milk, bring to a simmer, then stir in cheese until melted.
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Mix in cooked macaroni, season with salt and pepper. Let cool slightly.
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Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
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In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and BBQ sauce. Mix until well combined.
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Assemble the Meatloaf:
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Press half the meat mixture into the bottom and sides of the loaf pan, creating a well in the center.
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Spoon the mac ‘n’ cheese into the well.
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Cover with remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges.
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Bake:
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Bake for 45–55 minutes until meatloaf is cooked through (internal temp 160°F).
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Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
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Notes
For extra flavor, top with additional BBQ sauce or a sprinkle of cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking. This recipe can be made ahead and reheated.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
