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This Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf and Pasta Bake is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of a classic meatloaf and the cheesy goodness of pasta. With layers of cheesy meatloaf and tender pasta, it’s the perfect dinner to satisfy the whole family. The gooey cheddar cheese hidden inside the meatloaf takes this dish to the next level, adding an unexpected surprise in every bite.

Short Description

This Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf and Pasta Bake is a delicious, one-pan meal that combines a classic meatloaf with cheesy pasta for a comforting dinner that the whole family will love. The cheddar-stuffed meatloaf adds a gooey, savory surprise!

Key Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini work best)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Tools Needed

• Mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Knife and cutting board
• Cooking spoon
• Medium bowl for mixing pasta

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is fully combined.

Step 2: Stuff the Meatloaf with Cheese
Take about half of the meat mixture and form it into a loaf shape in the center of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Create a well in the center of the meatloaf and stuff it with the shredded cheddar cheese. Then, take the remaining meat mixture and press it on top, sealing the cheese inside the meatloaf.

Step 3: Bake the Meatloaf
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 4: Prepare the Pasta
While the meatloaf is baking, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Assemble the Bake
Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and pour the marinara sauce over the top. Spread the cooked pasta around the meatloaf in the same baking dish, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta and meatloaf.

Step 6: Bake the Entire Dish
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the bake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Slice and serve warm, with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cheesy Surprise – The melted cheddar cheese inside the meatloaf creates a deliciously gooey surprise with every bite.
• Hearty & Filling – The combination of meatloaf and pasta makes this a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for dinner.
• One-Pan Wonder – Everything bakes together in one dish, making cleanup easy and the cooking process simple.
• Kid-Friendly – The cheesy, savory flavors are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

Tips & Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a bit of heat.
• Meat Alternatives – You can substitute the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dish.
• Veggies – Add some sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach to the pasta mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Gluten-Free Version – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Storage Tips

• Store Leftovers – This casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat – Reheat in the microwave or in the oven until the cheese is bubbly and the dish is heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or even a spicy cheese like pepper jack.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf and pasta ahead of time, assemble the dish, and then bake it when ready to serve.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed.

Final Thoughts

Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf and Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food dish. With its cheesy, savory layers and hearty pasta, it’s a meal that everyone in the family will love. Whether you’re serving it for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is guaranteed to please. Easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for leftovers, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves cheesy, meaty casseroles. Enjoy!

There’s something so comforting about Southern Squash Casserole. It’s a dish that takes me back to family gatherings, where the smell of baked squash, buttery crumbs, and savory seasonings filled the house. This casserole is a staple at potlucks, holiday dinners, and Sunday family meals, and it’s easy to see why—it’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor.

In this recipe, tender squash is combined with a creamy, cheesy base and topped with buttery breadcrumbs, creating the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re making it as a side dish or enjoying it on its own, this Southern Squash Casserole is sure to be a hit.

Short Description

Southern Squash Casserole is a classic, comforting side dish that combines tender squash with creamy cheese and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or Sunday dinners, this casserole is the ultimate Southern comfort food.

Key Ingredients

• 4 cups yellow squash, sliced
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)

Tools Needed

• Large skillet
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon for stirring
• Knife and cutting board

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Squash
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced squash and chopped onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the squash becomes tender and the onions are translucent, about 5–7 minutes. Once done, drain any excess moisture from the squash mixture.

Step 2: Make the Casserole Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash and onion mixture with the sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.

Step 3: Prepare the Topping
In a separate small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with the butter.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the squash mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumb mixture over the top, covering the casserole completely.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs perfectly with fried chicken, barbecue, or any of your favorite Southern meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy & Cheesy – The combination of sour cream, mayonnaise, and cheddar cheese creates a rich, creamy base that brings out the sweetness of the squash.
• Perfectly Crunchy Topping – The buttery breadcrumb topping adds the perfect crunch to contrast the creamy filling.
• Classic Comfort Food – This casserole is a true Southern favorite, a dish that brings people together around the table.
• Simple to Make – With just a few simple ingredients and steps, this casserole comes together quickly for a delicious side dish.

Tips & Variations

• Add Extra Veggies – You can easily add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the casserole for a more colorful, veggie-packed dish.
• Spice It Up – If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the casserole mixture.
• Gluten-Free Version – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free version of this casserole.
• Make It Ahead – You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Storage Tips

• Store Leftovers – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat – Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings.

FAQs

Can I use frozen squash?
Fresh squash is best for this recipe, but if you need to use frozen squash, be sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking.

Can I substitute the mayonnaise?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or cream cheese in place of mayonnaise for a slightly tangier flavor.

Can I make this casserole without cheese?
While the cheese adds a creamy richness, you can omit it for a lighter version, though it won’t have the same cheesy flavor.

Final Thoughts

Southern Squash Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending the mild flavor of squash with creamy, cheesy goodness. It’s easy to make, hearty, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or bringing a dish to a potluck, this casserole will steal the show every time. It’s a dish that captures the heart of Southern cooking, with every bite offering a little taste of home.

It all started on a chilly Saturday night when comfort food was calling my name. I wanted something rich, warm, and satisfying—but with a twist. I had leftover grilled chicken, a handful of shredded cheese, and a bottle of honey sitting on the counter. And just like that, the idea for Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese was born.

The moment the creamy cheese sauce came together and that sweet, peppery chicken hit the skillet, I knew this would be something special. It’s bold, cheesy, just a little sweet, and perfectly peppery—everything a good comfort meal should be. Now, it’s one of our go-to dishes when we want something easy but unforgettable.

Short Description

This creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese is the perfect blend of sweet heat and cheesy comfort. Tender bites of chicken tossed in a honey pepper glaze are folded into a rich, velvety cheese sauce and elbow macaroni. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and absolutely delicious.

Key Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and cubed
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Pinch of salt

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat

Tools Needed

• Large saucepan
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Mixing spoon
• Cheese grater
• Strainer

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil a pot of salted water and cook the macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Honey Pepper Chicken
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, honey, black pepper, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Stir to coat and let the chicken caramelize slightly for 3–5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to make a roux. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens—about 3–5 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Cheese
Lower the heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat. Fold in the honey pepper chicken until everything is well combined and heated through.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Serve hot, with a little extra cheese or cracked black pepper on top if desired. For an extra finish, pop it under the broiler for 2–3 minutes to get a golden cheesy top.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet & Savory Fusion – Honey and pepper bring a delicious balance to the cheesy richness.
• Ultra Creamy – The cheese sauce is velvety, thick, and indulgent.
• Weeknight-Friendly – Easy enough to whip up in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile – Use leftover chicken, rotisserie, or even grilled shrimp!

Tips & Variations

• Spice It Up – Add crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
• Make It Smoky – Swap paprika for chipotle powder or add a dash of liquid smoke.
• Veggie Boost – Stir in sautéed spinach, peas, or roasted broccoli.
• Crunch Factor – Top with buttered breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers for texture.

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Not freezer-friendly due to the dairy, but best enjoyed fresh!

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta?
Absolutely! Shells, penne, or cavatappi work wonderfully.

What kind of cheese is best?
A mix of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates the best blend of creamy, melty, and flavorful.

Can I make it ahead?
Yes! Make the dish, cool completely, and reheat before serving.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is more than just comfort food—it’s a little bit sweet, a little bit spicy, and a whole lot of cozy. It’s the kind of dish you make once and end up dreaming about later. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just need a bowl of something warm after a long day, this recipe delivers every single time.