Ultimate Mac Cheese Meatloaf Delicious Irresistible

Ah, the comfort of home cooking! There’s something so soothing about the smell of a rich, cheesy dish wafting through the kitchen, don’t you think? I can vividly remember the first time I stumbled upon the idea of combining two of my all-time favorites: mac and cheese and meatloaf. It was a chilly autumn evening, and I was dreaming of something hearty for dinner. My search led me to this delightful concoction called Mac and Cheese Meatloaf, and let me tell you, it was love at first bite!

This dish is everything you want on a cozy night in. It’s warm, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover macaroni and cheese if you happen to have any (though let’s be honest, who ever has leftover mac and cheese?). With a crispy exterior and a cheesy, rich core, this recipe brings all the nostalgia of childhood meals right to your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
• Budget-friendly, using simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
• Comforting flavors that blend the best of both worlds.
• Great for meal prep — leftovers taste even better!
• A fun twist on classic favorites that’s sure to impress anyone who tries it.

Ingredients

Let’s gather our ingredients for this delightful dish! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound ground beef (you can also use turkey or chicken for a lighter option)
• 1 cup mac and cheese (prepared and cooled)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko works wonderfully for extra crunch!)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for an extra punch of flavor)
• 1/4 cup ketchup (plus more for topping)
• 1/4 cup milk (buttermilk adds a nice tang!)
• 1 large egg (helps bind everything together)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic adds more punch than powdered)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or your favorite herb blend)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have everything, let’s dive into making this absolutely fabulous Mac and Cheese Meatloaf!

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure our meatloaf cooks evenly and develops that gorgeous golden-brown crust.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, prepared mac and cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. You can use your hands to mix, but be careful not to overmix; just incorporate everything until combined. This will help your meatloaf be nice and tender!
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, ketchup, and egg. This mixture will keep the meatloaf moist and flavorful.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the meat mixture and gently fold together until just mixed. If it feels too wet, a bit more breadcrumb can help balance it out.
5. Transfer the mixture into a lined loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet. Make sure to shape it gently; we want it to hold together but not be packed tightly.
6. Spread a generous layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf. This will caramelize as it bakes and creates a lovely glaze!
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (70°C). You’ll know it’s ready when your whole house smells like a cheesy heaven.
8. Once cooked, let it rest for about 10 minutes to help the juices redistribute. This is the hard part — just a little patience!
9. Slice it up, serve it steaming hot, and get ready to enjoy the cheers of “What is this deliciousness?” from your loved ones.

Pro Tips & Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations and tips to make this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf your own:

• Add some cooked, diced bacon or sausage for an extra flavor punch.
• Mix in some steamed broccoli or spinach for a hidden veggie boost!
• If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
• Try different cheeses! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky Gouda can change the profile beautifully.
• Make it a stuffed meatloaf by adding more mac and cheese in the center and closing it up.

Serving Suggestions

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf is a meal all on its own, but pairing it with the right sides takes it to the next level. Imagine serving it with:

• A crisp side salad with a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
• Garlic bread for those who can’t ever say no to extra carbs (and who can blame them?).
• Roasted veggies like green beans or carrots for a pop of color and nutrients.
• A slice of your favorite pie or a scoop of ice cream for dessert to round out the meal.

Storage Tips

Got leftovers? No worries! This meatloaf holds up beautifully in the fridge. Here’s how to make sure it stays delicious:

• Let it cool completely before storing it. This prevents moisture buildup, which can make it soggy.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or store it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, slice the meatloaf and freeze individual portions wrapped tightly. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
• To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then pop it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes until warm.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought mac and cheese for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought mac and cheese works perfectly fine. Just make sure to let it cool before mixing it into the meatloaf. It saves time and adds that creamy goodness!

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

You can! Just swap out the breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives and ensure your pasta is gluten-free as well. Many brands make fantastic gluten-free macaroni that’ll work beautifully.

What if I don’t have any ketchup at home?

No problem! You can substitute it with BBQ sauce, or even a mix of mustard and honey for a tangy twist. Just use whatever you have on hand — cooking is all about being resourceful!

How can I make this meatloaf more spicy?

If you like it hot, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the meat mixture. You can also sprinkle some chili powder or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

Conclusion

And there you have it—your guide to creating a heartwarming Mac and Cheese Meatloaf that’s sure to become a cherished family favorite! It’s a dish that brings together nostalgia and comfort in every bite. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I enjoyed sharing this recipe with you.

I’d love to hear how yours turns out! If you give it a try, drop a comment below and let me know your favorite variation! Happy cooking!

Ultimate Mac Cheese Meatloaf Delicious Irresistible

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• Author: antaki
• Total Time: 80 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Savor the blend of cheesy goodness and savory meat in this Mac Cheese Meatloaf a satisfying dish thats both filling and delicious 153 characters

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 pound ground beef

1 cup prepared mac and cheese

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup ketchup

1/4 cup milk

1 large egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, prepared mac and cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, ketchup, and egg.

Pour the wet ingredients into the meat mixture and gently fold together until just mixed.

Transfer the mixture into a lined loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet.

Spread a generous layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (70°C).

Once cooked, let it rest for about 10 minutes.

Slice it up and serve it steaming hot.

Notes

A delightful combination of mac and cheese and meatloaf, creating a comforting home-cooked dish that’s perfect for dinner.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6 servings
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5 grams
• Fat: 25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Protein: 30 grams

Keywords: Mac and Cheese, Meatloaf, Comfort Food, Dinner Recipe