Dive into a world of elevated comfort with this Sticky Maple BBQ Bacon Meatloaf Stuffed with Creamy Mac and Cheese. As Chef Crenn from CrennRecipes.com, I invite you to experience the perfect balance of classic indulgence and refined sophistication. Get ready to transform your weeknight routine into a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds and heart feeling oh-so-satisfied.
Why You’ll Love This Sticky Maple BBQ Bacon Meatloaf Stuffed With Creamy Mac and Cheese
Prepare to embark on a flavor-packed journey that combines the comforting familiarity of meatloaf with the irresistible creaminess of mac and cheese, all while elevating the experience with a sticky, maple-infused BBQ glaze and the salty-sweet crunch of bacon. This dish is a true masterpiece of contrasting textures and tantalizing tastes, designed to delight your senses and leave you feeling utterly nourished and content.
Ingredients
Gather the finest, freshest ingredients to craft this culinary work of art. You’ll need ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and a blend of spices to create the meatloaf base. For the creamy mac and cheese filling, you’ll indulge in a rich cheese sauce made with cheddar, Parmesan, and a touch of cream. Wrap it all in a blanket of smoky, salty bacon and coat it with a heavenly maple BBQ glaze.
- 2 lbs – Ground Beef
- 1 cup – Breadcrumbs
- 2 – Eggs
- 1 – Onion, diced
- 3 cloves – Garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp – Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp – Salt
- 1/2 tsp – Black pepper
- 1 tsp – Smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp – Dried thyme
- 8 oz – Elbow macaroni
- 2 cups – Shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup – Grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup – Heavy cream
- 12 slices – Bacon
- 1/2 cup – Maple syrup
- 1/2 cup – Barbecue sauce
Ingredient Substitutions
- Ground Beef: Ground turkey or a combination of beef and turkey – a refined swap that keeps the balance.
- Cheese Varieties: Pepper jack or a blend of Gouda and cheddar – perfect for dietary or texture variation.
How to Make Sticky Maple BBQ Bacon Meatloaf Stuffed With Creamy Mac and Cheese
Prepare to transform your weeknight comfort food routine into a culinary masterpiece with this Sticky Maple BBQ Bacon Meatloaf Stuffed with Creamy Mac and Cheese.
Step 1 — Prep Work
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, then gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until smooth and creamy. Set the mac and cheese filling aside while you focus on the meatloaf.
Step 2 — Main Cooking Process
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Mix the ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Spread the meatloaf mixture into a rectangular shape on a baking sheet, leaving a hollow center to accommodate the mac and cheese filling.
Step 3 — Final Steps/Assembly
Scoop the creamy mac and cheese into the center of the meatloaf, then carefully wrap the meatloaf mixture around the filling, encasing it completely. Weave the bacon slices over and around the meatloaf, creating a beautiful, rustic design.
Step 4 — Finishing Touches
In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup and BBQ sauce to create the sticky glaze. Brush the entire meatloaf with the maple BBQ mixture, ensuring every inch is coated in the irresistible, glistening sauce.
Chef Tips & Variations
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheese varieties in the mac and cheese filling, such as pepper jack or a blend of Gouda and cheddar.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra indulgent touch, consider adding crumbled bacon or sautéed mushrooms to the mac and cheese.
- Spice it Up: If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne or smoky paprika to the meatloaf mixture.
- Texture Tips: To achieve the perfect texture, be mindful not to overmix the meatloaf, and use a light hand when shaping it.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: Roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or a side of garlic mashed potatoes.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat: The meatloaf can be reheated in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.
Make-Ahead: The meatloaf can be assembled and refrigerated, unbaked, for up to 24 hours before you’re ready to bake it.
Nutrition Information
This indulgent dish is a comforting and satisfying meal that nourishes both the body and the soul. Each serving provides a decadent blend of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, making it a well-rounded and wholesome option for your family.
- Serving Size: 1/8 of the meatloaf
- Calories: 655 kcal
- Protein: 37 g
- Carbs: 40 g
- Fat: 39 g
- Sodium: 895 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! The meatloaf can be assembled and refrigerated, unbaked, for up to 24 hours before you’re ready to bake it. This makes it an excellent option for meal prepping or entertaining.
How can I ensure the meatloaf is cooked through?
To ensure the meatloaf is cooked to perfection, use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This will guarantee the meat is safe to consume and the mac and cheese filling is heated through.
Can I freeze this meatloaf?
Yes, you can! Prepare the meatloaf as directed, but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as usual.
What should I serve with this meatloaf?
This Sticky Maple BBQ Bacon Meatloaf Stuffed with Creamy Mac and Cheese is a true showstopper, so keep the sides simple and complementary. Roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or a side of garlic mashed potatoes would all make excellent accompaniments.
Can I use a different type of meat for the meatloaf?
Absolutely! While ground beef is the traditional choice, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a blend of meats to suit your preferences. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
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Sticky Maple BBQ Bacon Meatloaf Stuffed With Creamy Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A delicious meatloaf stuffed with creamy mac and cheese, topped with sticky maple BBQ sauce.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 lb ground pork
1 cup cooked macaroni
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup BBQ sauce
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 eggs
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, milk, eggs, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until well combined and form half of the mixture into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. In a separate bowl, mix cooked macaroni and cheddar cheese, then place it in the center of the meatloaf.
5. Cover the macaroni with the remaining meat mixture and shape it into a loaf.
6. In a small bowl, mix BBQ sauce and maple syrup, then brush it over the top of the meatloaf.
7. Bake for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
8. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, add spices to the meat mixture.
Serve with a side of vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg