Chef Mitchell preparing Savory Macaroni Meatloaf
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Savory Macaroni Meatloaf during a family dinner gathering. It quickly became a staple in our household as everyone loved the combination of flavors. Over the years, I’ve perfected the recipe, ensuring it’s moist and packed with cheesy goodness. Now, I’m excited to share it with you!"

With over a decade of experience in American cuisine, Chef Mitchell has a passion for creating comforting dinner recipes. His journey began in culinary school, where he mastered the classics. Today, he enjoys reinventing traditional dishes for modern families.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Savory Macaroni Meatloaf served on a plate

Why This Savory Macaroni Meatloaf Recipe Works

This Savory Macaroni Meatloaf recipe stands out due to its delightful blend of flavors and textures. The addition of cooked macaroni adds a unique twist and a satisfying bite, while the blend of cheeses ensures richness. Each bite is bursting with cheesy goodness and savory beef.

The technique of mixing the ingredients without overworking the meat ensures a tender loaf. By letting the meatloaf rest after baking, you allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish. This recipe is both easy and rewarding, making it the perfect choice for a weeknight dinner.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, avoid overmixing the meatloaf mixture. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture. Additionally, make sure to let it rest after baking to enhance the flavor and moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just shape it into a loaf, cover it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This makes it a great option for busy nights.

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. Adjust seasonings as needed to match the flavor profile.

The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and no longer pink in the center.

Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It will last for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Pair the meatloaf with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with macaroni and cheese or roasted vegetables.

The meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ensure it is stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Reheat slices as needed in the microwave or oven.

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time. Just shape it, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. This allows for an easy, quick meal when you're ready to bake it.

The best way to reheat meatloaf is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, but this may make it a bit less moist.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

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Too Dry

Problem: If your meatloaf turns out dry, it could be due to overcooking or not enough moisture in the mixture.

Solution: To prevent dryness, consider adding a bit more milk or ketchup to the mixture. Also, ensure you monitor the cooking time closely and use a thermometer to check for doneness.

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Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the exterior of your meatloaf isn't crispy, it may not have had enough time to brown properly.

Solution: To achieve a crispier top, consider placing it under the broiler for the last few minutes of cooking. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

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Overcooked

Problem: An overcooked meatloaf can be tough and dry.

Prevention: To prevent this, make sure to use a meat thermometer and check early. The ideal internal temperature is 160°F (70°C). If you find it overcooked, serve with a sauce or gravy to add moisture.

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Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center of the meatloaf is undercooked, it can be unsafe to eat.

Recovery: To remedy this, place the meatloaf back in the oven. Cover it with foil to prevent the exterior from burning while it cooks the center. Use a thermometer to ensure it reaches the safe temperature.

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Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the exterior of your meatloaf burns before the inside is cooked, it can ruin the dish.

Prevention: To avoid burning, be sure to use a loaf pan that’s not too small. You can also cover the meatloaf with foil for the first part of baking to shield it from direct heat.

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Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the meatloaf is too sweet, consider adding more salt or a splash of vinegar to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If it's too salty, you can add more breadcrumbs or macaroni to absorb some of the saltiness.

Bland: For a bland flavor, enhance with additional seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs to boost the taste.

Fresh ingredients for Savory Macaroni Meatloaf

Essential Ingredients for Savory Macaroni Meatloaf

The main ingredients in this Savory Macaroni Meatloaf include ground beef, macaroni, and a blend of cheeses. Ground beef adds protein and richness, while macaroni contributes a comforting texture. The cheeses used not only enhance the flavor but also help bind the mixture for a perfect loaf.

Choosing high-quality ingredients is essential for a delicious meatloaf. Look for fresh, grass-fed beef and high-quality cheeses. Avoid overcooked or mushy macaroni, as it can affect the texture. Fresh herbs and spices will elevate the flavors and make your dish shine.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option. The fat content can affect the moisture in the meatloaf, so choose a blend that suits your preference—80/20 or 90/10 are good choices.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar cheese for a bold flavor that pairs well with the beef. Grating your cheese fresh ensures maximum flavor and meltability in the meatloaf.
  • Macaroni: Cook the macaroni just until al dente. If it's overcooked, it can become mushy in the meatloaf. Rinse it in cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process if you're prepping ahead.
Cooking process for Savory Macaroni Meatloaf

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Making Savory Macaroni Meatloaf is straightforward and enjoyable. Start by preparing your ingredients and preheating the oven. Mixing the components together is crucial, but be careful not to overmix, which can lead to a dense texture. Shape the loaf and bake until perfectly cooked.

To achieve a perfectly cooked meatloaf, monitor the internal temperature and allow it to rest before slicing. This ensures that the juices are retained within the meatloaf, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.

Key Technique for Perfect Savory Macaroni Meatloaf

The key to a perfect Savory Macaroni Meatloaf lies in the mixing of ingredients. Gently combine them until just incorporated, avoiding overworking the meat. This helps maintain a light texture, ensuring that your meatloaf remains moist and tender after cooking.

Savory Macaroni Meatloaf

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup ketchup
    For glazing
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
    For sweetness
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
    Adds depth of flavor
  • 1 tbsp mustard
    For tanginess
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
    For additional flavor

For the Sauce

  • 1 lb ground beef
    Choice of lean or regular
  • 2 cups cooked macaroni
    Elbow macaroni works best
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
    Sharp or mild, your choice
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
    To bind the mixture
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
    For flavor
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
    For moisture and flavor
  • 2 eggs
    Bind the ingredients
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
    For added flavor
  • 1 tsp salt
    To taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
    For seasoning

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Gather all ingredients and prepare them as specified.

  2. Preheat Oven

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  3. Mix All Ingredients

    In a large bowl, combine ground beef, macaroni, cheeses, breadcrumbs, onion, ketchup, eggs, and seasonings. Mix until just combined.

  4. Shape the Meatloaf

    Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf form.

  5. Bake

    Place in the oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

  6. Let Rest

    Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

  7. Slice and Serve

    Slice the meatloaf and serve with your choice of sides.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store any leftover Savory Macaroni Meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Be sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

Serving Suggestions

Savory Macaroni Meatloaf pairs well with classic sides like mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables. A fresh salad or crusty bread also complements the dish beautifully.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding different cheeses, such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a spicy kick. You can also mix in vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.