Introduction
Indulge in the comfort of home cooking with this Ultimate Mac ‘n’ Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf. This dish combines two beloved comfort foods into one hearty meal, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. The savory meatloaf envelops a creamy, cheesy macaroni filling, creating a delightful explosion of flavors in every bite.
## History
Meatloaf has been a staple in American cuisine since the Great Depression, providing an economical way to use leftovers. Macaroni and cheese, on the other hand, has its roots in Italy but gained popularity in the U.S. in the 18th century. The fusion of these two dishes reflects the spirit of innovation in home cooking.
## Ingredients
### For the Meatloaf:
– 2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 large eggs
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
### For the Mac ‘n’ Cheese:
– 8 ounces elbow macaroni
– 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
## Instructions
### Preparing the Mac ‘n’ Cheese:
1. **Cook the macaroni**: Boil water in a large pot, add macaroni, and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. **Make the cheese sauce**:
– In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
– Stir in flour, cooking for about 1 minute.
– Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until thickened.
– Add cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until cheese is melted and smooth.
3. **Combine**: Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Set aside.
### Preparing the Meatloaf:
1. **Preheat oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Mix ingredients**: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Mix until well combined.
3. **Form the meatloaf**: On a baking sheet, shape half of the meat mixture into a loaf. Create a well in the center and fill it with the mac ‘n’ cheese mixture. Cover with the remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges.
4. **Bake**: Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
## Benefits
This dish is not only delicious but also provides a range of nutrients. Ground beef is a rich source of protein and iron, while macaroni offers carbohydrates for energy. Cheese contributes calcium and additional protein, making this meal a hearty option for fueling your day.
## Nutrition
– **Calories**: Approximately 600 calories per serving
– **Protein**: 40g
– **Carbohydrates**: 45g
– **Fat**: 30g
– **Fiber**: 2g
## Conclusion
The Ultimate Mac ‘n’ Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf is a delightful twist on two classic dishes, making it a surefire hit for comfort food lovers. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe brings together flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy. Enjoy with loved ones for a meal that warms both the heart and the stomach!
### Lovers of Comfort Food
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just indulging yourself, this dish embodies the essence of comfort food. Its rich flavors and hearty nature make it a memorable centerpiece for any meal.
