Mac and Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf

Name: Mac and Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 100 min
Yield: 8 slices
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked); 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 cup milk; 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 kilogram ground beef (lean); 1 onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 eggs (beaten); 1/4 cup ketchup; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

100 min 8 slices Medium

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Mac and Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf

This meatloaf hides a cheesy macaroni surprise inside. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests with a unique twist.

Prep

30 min

Cook

60 min

Total

100 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Mac and Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf combines two comfort foods into one epic dish. Imagine slicing into a succulent beef loaf to reveal a creamy macaroni and cheese centre, oozing with cheesy goodness. This recipe is perfect for those looking to impress at a family dinner or add a twist to their usual meatloaf routine. This version works because it balances the hearty flavours of seasoned beef with the creamy, rich texture of mac and cheese. The two elements complement each other without overpowering, creating a harmonious blend that satisfies both meat lovers and pasta enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just adventurous in the kitchen, this recipe is crafted to guide you through each step with ease.

Ingredients

Servings

For the Mac and Cheese

For the Meatloaf

Instructions

Cook the macaroni

Boil water in a pot, add 1 cup of elbow macaroni and cook for 6 minutes until slightly undercooked. Drain and set aside.

Pro tip: The macaroni will finish cooking in the oven, so don't overcook it here.

Prepare the cheese sauce

In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 1 cup milk until smooth. Add 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese and 1/4 teaspoon salt, stirring until melted and combined. Mix with macaroni.

Pro tip: Ensure the sauce is smooth and creamy before combining with the pasta.

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the meatloaf mixture

In a large bowl, combine 1 kilogram of lean ground beef, 1 finely chopped onion, 2 minced cloves of garlic, 1 cup breadcrumbs, 2 beaten eggs, 1/4 cup ketchup, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Mix until just combined.

Pro tip: Be careful not to over-mix the meatloaf to keep it tender.

Assemble the meatloaf

Place half of the meat mixture into a loaf shape on a baking sheet. Create a well in the centre and fill with prepared mac and cheese. Cover with remaining meat mixture and seal edges.

Pro tip: Ensure the mac and cheese is fully encased to prevent leakage.

Bake the meatloaf

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Rest and serve

Remove from oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Pro tip: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier meatloaf.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Use lean ground beef for less grease.</li><li>Let the meatloaf rest before slicing for cleaner cuts.</li><li>Make the mac and cheese slightly undercooked so it finishes cooking in the meatloaf.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Mac and Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf with a side of green beans or a fresh garden salad to cut through the richness. A glass of red wine, such as a Merlot, pairs beautifully with the flavours of the dish. You can prepare the meatloaf ahead of time and refrigerate it. Simply bake when ready to serve. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for up to two months.