Beef Meatloaf with Macaroni and Cheese

Created on January 13th, 2026 at 02:21 pm

A Classic Beef Meatloaf Paired with Creamy Macaroni and Cheese

Beef Meatloaf with Macaroni and Cheese is a comfort-focused dinner built around two familiar favorites served together in a structured, intentional way. Instead of mixing everything into one casserole or hiding the pasta inside the meat, this recipe keeps the beef meatloaf and the macaroni and cheese as distinct but complementary components that bake together and serve cleanly.
The beef meatloaf forms a savory, well-seasoned base with a tender texture that slices easily. On top, a creamy macaroni and cheese layer adds richness and softness, creating a balanced bite that includes both meat and pasta every time. This approach keeps the flavors clear and recognizable while still delivering the comfort people expect from this combination.
This recipe is designed for family dinners, shared meals, and occasions when you want a hearty plate that feels complete without needing extra sides. Everything bakes in one dish, making preparation and cleanup simpler while still producing a dish that looks and tastes thoughtfully prepared.

Why Beef Works Best in This Combination

Beef is the ideal choice for pairing with macaroni and cheese because of its depth and savory character. The richness of ground beef provides contrast to the creamy, mild cheese sauce, preventing the dish from tasting flat or overly soft. Beef also holds its structure well during baking, which helps the meatloaf stay sliceable even with a pasta layer involved.
In this recipe, the beef is seasoned in a classic way with onion, garlic, and gentle spices. The seasoning supports the cheese without overpowering it. Because the macaroni and cheese is creamy rather than heavily seasoned, the beef provides the primary savory backbone of the dish.
Using beef instead of mixed meats keeps the flavor profile familiar and widely appealing. It’s a dependable choice for comfort cooking, especially for households that prefer traditional meatloaf flavors.

Flavor Profile and Texture Expectations

Beef Meatloaf with Macaroni and Cheese delivers a balanced, comforting flavor profile. The meatloaf is savory, lightly seasoned, and juicy without being greasy. The macaroni and cheese is smooth, creamy, and rich, with a soft texture that contrasts with the firmer meat layer.
Texture plays an important role here. The meatloaf is compact enough to hold together but tender enough to cut easily. The macaroni remains soft and coated in cheese sauce, not dry or stiff. When served together, the textures complement each other, making each bite satisfying without feeling heavy.
The overall flavor is classic and approachable. There are no bold spices or sharp heat. This dish is meant to feel familiar and comforting, suitable for a wide range of tastes.

Time Breakdown

Prep time: 40 minutes
Cook time: 65 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lb ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 1/2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
• 1 1/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3/4 cup milk or light cream
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp flour
• Cooking spray or oil for the baking dish

Kitchen Tools

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk and let sit until softened.
• In a large mixing bowl, add ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, dried parsley, and ketchup.
• Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
• Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a smooth layer.
• In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
• Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until smooth.
• Slowly whisk in the milk or cream and cook until slightly thickened.
• Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted and smooth.
• Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.
• Spoon the macaroni and cheese evenly over the meatloaf layer.
• Spread gently to create an even top without pressing the pasta into the meat.
• Bake uncovered for 60 to 65 minutes, until the meatloaf is fully cooked and the macaroni and cheese is set.
• Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Best Results

Use fully cooked and well-drained macaroni so excess moisture doesn’t thin the cheese sauce.
Keep the cheese sauce slightly loose before baking, as it will thicken in the oven.
Avoid compacting the meat too tightly in the baking dish to maintain a tender texture.
Let the dish rest before serving so both layers set and portions serve cleanly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Beef Meatloaf with Macaroni and Cheese as a complete main dish. Because it includes both protein and pasta, sides can be simple and light.
Steamed vegetables, green beans, or a crisp salad pair well and help balance the richness of the dish.
For presentation, slice into squares or serve with a spatula for a more casual, family-style feel.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dish holds its texture well when stored properly.
Reheat portions in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Cover loosely during reheating to prevent drying.
This dish can be frozen after baking. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition Table (Approximate Per Serving)

Assumes 6 servings.

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	525
Carbohydrates	34 g
Protein	35 g
Fat	30 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	5 g
Sodium	820 mg

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this different from a meatloaf casserole?

Yes. This recipe keeps the meatloaf and macaroni and cheese in clear layers rather than mixing everything together. That helps preserve texture and makes the dish easier to portion.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble the meatloaf layer and macaroni and cheese separately, then combine them just before baking. You can also assemble the full dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Does the macaroni dry out during baking?

No, as long as the cheese sauce is not too thick before baking and the dish is not overcooked. The meat layer also helps retain moisture.

Can I use a different cheese blend?

You can adjust the cheeses slightly, but keeping at least one good melting cheese helps maintain the creamy texture. Avoid very dry or crumbly cheeses.

Is this recipe suitable for family meals?

Yes. The mild, classic flavors and hearty portions make it ideal for family dinners and shared meals.