Mac & Cheese Stuffed Honey Barbecue Meatloaf Recipe

Brace yourself for the ultimate comfort food mashup: Mac & Cheese Stuffed Honey Barbecue Meatloaf! This recipe takes the classic, hearty meatloaf you love and surprises you with an ooey-gooey, cheesy mac and cheese center, all finished off with a sticky sweet honey barbecue glaze. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when two weeknight favorites join forces, get ready—this dish will rock your dinner routine.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how this Mac & Cheese Stuffed Honey Barbecue Meatloaf comes together with everyday kitchen staples and clever twists. Each ingredient is carefully chosen for its role in bringing you that signature texture, craveable flavor, and jaw-dropping cheesy center.

• Lean ground beef: Provides a hearty, flavorful base while keeping things moist but not greasy.
• Bread crumbs: Binds the meatloaf and adds a little lightness, so it’s never dense.
• Eggs: Essential for holding the loaf together without any crumbling when sliced.
• White onion (diced): Adds subtle sweetness and moisture throughout the loaf.
• Garlic powder: Infuses deep, savory notes that make the meatloaf extra craveworthy.
• Dried parsley & Italian seasoning: These herbs offer freshness and a classic, homey background flavor.
• Honey barbecue sauce: Delivers sweetness, smokiness, and a gentle tang, locking moisture inside the meat.
• Salt & pepper: Balances out all the flavors.
• Creamy mac and cheese: Your favorite ultra-creamy version will make the stuffed center unforgettable—use leftovers or a simple stovetop batch!
• Shredded mozzarella: Melts with the mac for that irresistibly gooey middle.
• White sandwich bread slices: Lined at the bottom to soak up excess fat—no soggy bottom here!
• Ketchup, brown sugar, yellow mustard, honey: These blend into a glossy, sweet-tangy sauce that carries that honey barbecue magic to the very top.

Variations

One of the best things about this stuffed meatloaf is how adaptable it is! Mix and match cheeses, sauces, or even sneak in extra veggies based on what you have on hand or your family’s taste buds—just follow your inspiration.

• Spicy Kick: Use pepper jack cheese in the mac or add a little hot sauce to the honey barbecue glaze for some heat.
• Turkey Twist: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version that’s still just as delicious and satisfying.
• Veggie Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the beef mixture for extra texture and nutrition.
• Cheese Lovers’ Dream: Try mixing in sharp cheddar or gouda with the mozzarella for extra cheesy flavor.

How to Make Mac & Cheese Stuffed Honey Barbecue Meatloaf

Step 1: Make the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, eggs, diced onion, garlic powder, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and honey barbecue sauce. Don’t be afraid to get your hands messy here—you want everything fully and evenly incorporated for a meatloaf that’ll hold together beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan and Shape

Generously mist your meatloaf pan with nonstick spray. Lay two slices of white bread on the bottom—these act as flavorless “sponges” to absorb excess fat and keep your meatloaf slices picture-perfect. Take half of your meat mixture and form it into a loaf, pressing it down into the pan and up the sides, creating a deep, boat-like well in the center.

Step 3: Make and Add the Filling

In another bowl, stir together the creamy mac and cheese and shredded mozzarella. Spoon this cheesy mixture into the depression you’ve formed in the meatloaf base—spread it evenly to ensure every slice gets plenty of that rich, gooey center.

Step 4: Seal and Bake

Flatten the remaining meat mixture and gently lay it over the mac and cheese, pinching the edges to seal the “stuffed” surprise inside. Bake at 350°F for about 40 minutes, until the loaf is mostly cooked through (don’t worry, it’ll go back in the oven for the saucy finale).

Step 5: Glaze and Finish Baking

Raise the oven to 400°F. Meanwhile, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, yellow mustard, and honey in a small bowl until smooth. Carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven, spread the sweet and tangy glaze on top, and return to the oven for another 15 minutes—the sauce will bubble and caramelize into a delectable sticky crust.

Step 6: Rest, Slice, and Serve

Let your Mac & Cheese Stuffed Honey Barbecue Meatloaf rest for 5–7 minutes to ensure easy slicing and a melty, intact center. Use two spatulas to carefully lift it from the pan to a cutting board (the bread at the bottom can be discarded). Slice thick, hearty pieces and watch everyone swoon!

How to Serve Mac & Cheese Stuffed Honey Barbecue Meatloaf

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives over the sliced meatloaf for a pop of color and freshness—those vibrant green flecks play beautifully against the golden barbecue glaze. If you’re feeling extra, a little dusting of smoked paprika gives a pretty finish and deepens the aroma.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly, or pair with roasted broccoli, buttered corn, or garlicky green beans for a classic comfort feast. For true Southern flair, soft dinner rolls or creamy coleslaw on the side are always a hit with Mac & Cheese Stuffed Honey Barbecue Meatloaf.

Creative Ways to Present

For a show-stopping presentation, slice the meatloaf thick and fan the pieces out on a serving platter, letting that gooey cheese take center stage. Serve mini versions in muffin tins for parties, or plate each piece with a little extra drizzle of honey barbecue sauce and a few microgreens for an elevated touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Simply cover any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container and refrigerate—it’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 days. The noodles stay creamy inside and the flavor only gets better as it rests!

Freezing

You can freeze Mac & Cheese Stuffed Honey Barbecue Meatloaf either whole or sliced. Cool completely, then wrap tightly and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, warm slices gently in the oven at 325°F, covered with foil to retain moisture, until heated through. A quick zap in the microwave works for individual servings, but a splash of water helps ensure the cheese stays deliciously creamy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s equal parts hearty, fun, and absolutely unforgettable, you have to try this Mac & Cheese Stuffed Honey Barbecue Meatloaf. Trust me—one slice in, and you’ll be hooked. Gather your favorite people, serve up some ooey-gooey goodness, and get ready for rave reviews around the table!

Print