Ingredients
- Lean Ground BeefOpt for an 85/15 blend for the best balance of flavor and moisture without making the loaf excessively greasy.
- Cooked Macaroni PastaUse elbow or small shell pasta, cooked al dente, as it holds its shape well when baked inside the meatloaf.
- Sharp Cheddar CheeseFreshly grated sharp cheddar provides the essential tanginess and color for the creamy filling.
- Mozzarella CheeseAdded to the cheese mixture, this melts beautifully and gives the gooey stretch we all crave in macaroni.
- Whole Milk and ButterThese form the base of our simple, rich internal cheese sauce, providing necessary hydration and creamy texture.
- BreadcrumbsUse plain dried breadcrumbs, soaking them in milk or broth briefly helps bind the meat mixture while keeping it tender.
- EggsLarge eggs act as the primary binder for the ground beef mixture, preventing the loaf from crumbling during slicing.
- Worcestershire SauceA splash of this provides deep umami flavor, enhancing the savory profile of the beef without requiring complex spices.
- Ketchup or Tomato PasteUsed as a flavorful binder and a traditional topping glaze, choose paste for deeper tomato concentration or ketchup for sweetness.
- Onion and Garlic PowderEssential aromatic seasonings that distribute evenly throughout the loaf mixture, providing classic savory depth.
- Dried Italian HerbsA blend of oregano, basil, and thyme adds a warm, herbaceous note to the overall beef seasoning.
Instructions
- Step 1:Cook the Pasta and Make the Sauce
- Step 2:Combine the Meatloaf Base
- Step 3:Form the Loaf and Create the Well
- Step 4:Stuff and Seal
- Step 5:Glaze and Bake
- Step 6:Resting and Serving
Notes
- Store any leftovers tightly wrapped in foil or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, keeping in mind the internal pasta filling may become a little firmer upon chilling.
- For the best texture, reheat individual slices wrapped loosely in foil in a 300°F oven until warmed through, which prevents the exterior from hardening and helps the internal cheese sauce remain soft.
- Serve this hearty loaf alongside a simple, vinegary side salad or steamed green beans tossed with lemon juice to provide a fresh, sharp contrast to the rich meat and cheese.
- Chef's Tip: When forming the loaf, ensure your mac and cheese filling is cooled before stuffing, as hot filling can prematurely melt the fat in the ground beef mixture, resulting in a greasier final product.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American