why make this recipe
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf brings together two beloved comfort foods into one delicious dish. It combines the hearty flavors of meatloaf with the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress your loved ones. It’s tasty, filling, and offers a fun twist on classic recipes that everyone will enjoy.
how to make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small onion (finely diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
For the Mac and Cheese Filling:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (cooked and drained)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Directions:
Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5 loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Prepare Mac and Cheese: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth, then simmer until it thickens slightly. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Add garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix in cooked macaroni and set aside to cool slightly.
Make Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix just until combined (don’t overwork).
Assemble: Press half of the meat mixture into the bottom of the prepared loaf pan. Spread the mac and cheese evenly on top, leaving about ½ inch around the edges. Cover with the remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges well.
Bake: Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Rest & Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
how to serve Mac and Cheese Meatloaf
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf can be served warm as a main dish. Pair it with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A side of extra ketchup or hot sauce can also enhance the flavor for those who enjoy a little kick.
how to store Mac and Cheese Meatloaf
To store leftovers, allow the meatloaf to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice the meatloaf and freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
tips to make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf
- Do not overmix the meatloaf ingredients; this keeps it tender.
- For added flavor, you can mix in your favorite spices or herbs into the meat mixture.
- Feel free to use different types of cheese in the mac and cheese component to customize the flavor.
variation
You can add cooked bacon bits to the mac and cheese for a smoky flavor. Alternatively, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare Mac and Cheese Meatloaf in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly and bake it when you’re ready.
2. Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?
Absolutely! You can substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
3. How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this.
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5 loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare Mac and Cheese: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth, then simmer until it thickens slightly. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Add garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix in cooked macaroni and set aside to cool slightly.
- Make Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix just until combined (don’t overwork).
- Assemble: Press half of the meat mixture into the bottom of the prepared loaf pan. Spread the mac and cheese evenly on top, leaving about ½ inch around the edges. Cover with the remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges well.
- Bake: Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Rest & Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.