The Ultimate Mac 'N' Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf: Comfort Food Elevated

Few dishes scream comfort food louder than a classic meatloaf. But when you take that nostalgic staple and stuff it with creamy, gooey mac 'n' cheese, you take it to another level of indulgence. The Ultimate Mac 'N' Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf is the perfect marriage of two beloved American classics—offering a rich, hearty, and satisfying meal that turns heads at the dinner table. Whether it’s a special family dinner, a holiday gathering, or you simply want to impress guests, this is the show-stopping recipe you need.

Why This Stuffed Meatloaf Is the Best You'll Ever Taste

This dish is not your average meatloaf. It’s a bold and flavorful creation that combines the best of savory ground beef, cheddar-loaded macaroni and cheese, and a rich glaze that locks in moisture and adds a tangy-sweet finish. The contrast of tender meat with the ultra-creamy mac inside is unbeatable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for the perfect balance of moisture and flavor)

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned preferred)

• 2 eggs

• ½ cup milk

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Mac 'N' Cheese Filling:

• 1½ cups elbow macaroni

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 1½ cups whole milk

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup ketchup

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

How to Make the Ultimate Mac 'N' Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf

Step 1: Prepare the Mac 'N' Cheese

1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux.

3. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened.

4. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.

5. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let cool slightly before stuffing.

Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Base

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper.

2. Mix until well combined but avoid overmixing, which can make the meatloaf tough.

Step 3: Assemble the Stuffed Meatloaf

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. On a piece of parchment paper or foil, flatten two-thirds of the meat mixture into a rectangle, about ½-inch thick.

3. Spoon cooled mac 'n' cheese down the center, leaving room on the edges.

4. Carefully press the remaining third of the meat mixture on top and seal the edges to encase the filling.

5. Transfer to a loaf pan or shape freehand on a baking sheet.

Step 4: Apply the Glaze

1. Mix all glaze ingredients in a small bowl.

2. Brush generously over the entire meatloaf.

3. Reserve some glaze for a second application during baking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

1. Bake meatloaf for 55–65 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

2. Midway through baking, brush with remaining glaze.

3. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Tips for Meatloaf Success

• Chill the mac 'n' cheese slightly before stuffing to prevent it from becoming runny.

• Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.

• Letting the loaf rest before slicing ensures a clean cut and keeps the cheese from spilling out prematurely.

• For extra flavor, add crispy bacon bits or jalapeños to the mac filling.

What to Serve With Mac 'N' Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf

Complete your comfort food feast with one or more of these sides:

• Garlic mashed potatoes

• Roasted green beans or asparagus

• Southern-style cornbread

• Creamy coleslaw

• Buttered peas and carrots

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat:

• Oven: Cover with foil and warm at 325°F for 15–20 minutes.

• Microwave: Heat individual slices in 30-second intervals until hot.

Freezing: Wrap slices tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Why You'll Make This Again and Again

This Ultimate Mac 'N' Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. Every slice delivers creamy, cheesy comfort surrounded by juicy, flavorful meat. It's not only satisfying but also a fun and unexpected twist on traditional recipes that both kids and adults will love.

Make it once, and you’ll quickly realize why it deserves a permanent place in your recipe rotation.