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.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Surprise Cheese-Filled Center: Every slice of meatloaf reveals a river of creamy mac & cheese, making dinner a delight for kids and adults alike.
- All-in-One Comfort Meal: It brilliantly combines the nostalgia of classic meatloaf with the irresistible creaminess of homemade mac and cheese, so you get two favorite dishes in one bite.
- Irresistible Honey Barbecue Glaze: A sweet and tangy sauce bakes into a sticky coating that keeps the meat extra juicy and flavorful.
- Showstopper Dinner: Serve this at a family gathering or potluck, and watch everyone’s eyes light up when you slice into that golden, gooey center!
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!
Pro Tips for Making Mac & Cheese Stuffed Honey Barbecue Meatloaf
- Seal the Edges Well: Be sure to pinch the meat mixture together all around the stuffed center—this keeps that glorious mac and cheese from sneaking out as it bakes!
- Use Creamy Mac & Cheese: The creamier your macaroni, the silkier and more luscious your finished meatloaf center will be. Avoid baked mac (it’s too dry for stuffing here).
- Sauce Timing: Don’t add the glaze until the last 15 minutes—this way it caramelizes without burning, and gives you that sticky-sweet finish.
- Let It Rest: Resting after baking ensures gorgeous slices with the mac and cheese holding together inside, every single time.
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
-
Can I use store-bought mac and cheese for the stuffing?
Absolutely! Any creamy stovetop mac and cheese will work beautifully—just avoid baked or overly dry varieties for the best gooey center. Feel free to use your favorite brand or a homemade batch if you have extra on hand.
-
What if I don’t have a meatloaf pan?
No problem! Shape your Mac & Cheese Stuffed Honey Barbecue Meatloaf by hand on a parchment-lined baking sheet, forming a well for the filling and sealing as directed. Watch the baking time, as it may cook a bit faster without pan sides.
-
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes—assemble, cover, and refrigerate the uncooked stuffed loaf up to a day ahead. When you’re ready to cook, let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes, then bake as usual for a delicious make-ahead meal.
-
How do I keep the filling from leaking out?
Be generous when sealing the top and edges—press firmly so the filling is completely encased. And don’t skip the resting time after baking; this helps everything set and slice neatly with the mac and cheese intact every time.
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!
Mac & Cheese Stuffed Honey Barbecue Meatloaf Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delicious twist on classic meatloaf, this Mac & Cheese Stuffed Honey Barbecue Meatloaf is a comforting and flavorful dish that will satisfy your cravings. The combination of savory meatloaf, creamy mac and cheese, and sweet barbecue sauce creates a mouthwatering experience!
Ingredients
For The Meatloaf
- 1 1/4 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small white onion, diced
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup honey barbecue sauce
- salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 cup creamy mac and cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
For The Sauce
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp honey
Instructions
- To Make The Meatloaf – In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic powder, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and barbecue sauce. Shape half of the mixture into a loaf in a prepared pan. Fill with mac and cheese mixture. Cover with remaining meat mixture. Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes.
- To Make The Sauce – Mix ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and honey. Spread over partially cooked meatloaf. Bake at 400°F for 15 minutes more until cooked through.
- Let the meatloaf rest before slicing and serving with a side salad.
Notes
- Ensure the meatloaf is cooked through before serving.
- Feel free to customize the meatloaf with your favorite cheeses or additional seasonings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approximately 500 kcal
- Sugar: Approximately 15g
- Sodium: Approximately 800mg
- Fat: Approximately 25g
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approximately 12g
- Trans Fat: Approximately 0g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 35g
- Fiber: Approximately 2g
- Protein: Approximately 30g
- Cholesterol: Approximately 150mg
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