Growing up, my family had a tradition of gathering around the dinner table every Sunday. One of the highlights of these meals was my mother’s famous meatloaf, which she would often stuff with various ingredients to keep things exciting. One day, I decided to take a nostalgic trip down memory lane and combine two of my favorite comfort foods: mac ‘n’ cheese and meatloaf. The result? A Mac ‘n’ Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Meatloaf that has become a staple in my home. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories that brings everyone together.
Why This Recipe Works
This Mac ‘n’ Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Meatloaf stands out for several reasons:
- Comfort Food Fusion: Combining the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac ‘n’ cheese with the hearty texture of meatloaf creates a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. It’s the best of both worlds!
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any advanced cooking skills. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
- Customizable: You can easily modify the recipe to suit your taste preferences. Whether you want to add vegetables, switch up the cheese, or use different meats, the possibilities are endless.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish. It’s a fun way to get picky eaters to enjoy their vegetables and protein without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe serves 4-6 people and takes about 20 minutes to prep and 1 hour to cook.
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup cooked macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf cooks evenly.
- Prepare the Mac ‘n’ Cheese: In a pot, cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and mix with shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Assemble the Meatloaf: On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, shape half of the meat mixture into a rectangle. Spread the mac ‘n’ cheese evenly over the meat, then top with the remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges to encase the mac ‘n’ cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
My Pro Tips for Success
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in your mac ‘n’ cheese. Gouda or mozzarella can add a unique flavor.
- Vegetable Add-ins: For added nutrition, consider mixing in some finely chopped spinach or bell peppers into the mac ‘n’ cheese.
- Leftover Makeover: If you have leftovers, try slicing the meatloaf and making a sandwich with it. It’s delicious on a toasted bun!
- Freezing Tips: This meatloaf freezes well. You can prepare it ahead of time and freeze it before baking. Just thaw and bake when you’re ready to enjoy!
What I Serve With This Recipe
This Mac ‘n’ Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with:
- Steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy side.
- Garlic bread to soak up any leftover cheese sauce.
- A fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the meatloaf.
FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)
- Can I use ground beef instead of chicken? Absolutely! Ground beef will work just as well, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
- How do I know when the meatloaf is done? Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
- What if I don’t have breadcrumbs? You can use crushed crackers or oats as a substitute for breadcrumbs.
Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot on Your Table
This Mac ‘n’ Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Meatloaf is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table. It’s a dish that sparks conversation and creates lasting memories, just like the ones I cherish from my childhood. The ease of preparation and the ability to customize it to your liking make it a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners.
Your Turn
I invite you to try this Mac ‘n’ Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Meatloaf and experience the joy it brings to your table. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends.
Mac 'n' Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Meatloaf You Have to Try
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf cooks evenly.
- Prepare the Mac 'n' Cheese: In a pot, cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and mix with shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Assemble the Meatloaf: On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, shape half of the meat mixture into a rectangle. Spread the mac 'n' cheese evenly over the meat, then top with the remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges to encase the mac 'n' cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
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