Name: Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular); 2 large eggs; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella); 1/2 cup ketchup; 1/2 onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to taste

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

The aroma of melted cheese and savory meat wafts through the air as you prepare to dive into a plate of Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole. Picture this: a cozy evening where everyone gathers around the table, anticipation bubbling like that gooey cheese on top. You can already hear the forks clinking against plates as your loved ones dig in—this is the kind of dish that brings people together.

Now let me take you back to that one chilly winter night when my mischievous dog decided to turn my kitchen into his personal obstacle course. With every step I took towards my beloved casserole dish, he was right there—tail wagging and ready for action. Spoiler alert: he didn’t get any of the casserole. But we all enjoyed a hearty meal while sharing laughter over his antics—perfect moments happen over a plate of Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This comforting casserole combines classic flavors in an easy-to-make dish perfect for any weeknight dinner
The melty cheese creates a rich topping that everyone will love
It’s visually appealing and makes an impressive centerpiece at gatherings
Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt based on what you have handy in your pantry!

I remember serving this dish at a family gathering; everyone was raving about it and asking for seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for the best balance of flavor and texture without too much grease.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind everything together; feel free to use panko or regular breadcrumbs based on preference.
Eggs: Use large eggs to help hold the mixture together; they add moisture and richness.
Shredded Cheese: A mix of cheddar and mozzarella gives an amazing gooey texture; don’t skimp on the cheese!
Ketchup: Adds sweetness and balances out the savory flavors; consider using homemade or low-sugar options.
Onion and Garlic: Finely chopped fresh onion and minced garlic bring aromatic depth; don’t sauté them first as they’ll cook in the oven.
Seasonings: Use salt, pepper, and Italian herbs for added flavor; customize according to your taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a large mixing bowl and combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, half your shredded cheese, diced onion, minced garlic, ketchup, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs until well blended.

Shape Your Meat Mixture: Transfer the meat mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Press it down firmly but gently—you want it to hold its shape without turning into a brick!

Add Toppings: Sprinkle remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top of your meat mixture. Feel free to add extra herbs or spices if you’re feeling adventurous!

Bake Away: Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes until it’s browned on top and cooked through—the aroma will have you drooling!

Let It Rest: Once done baking, remove from oven and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing into squares. This helps keep everything intact when serving!

Serve It Up: Dish out generous portions onto plates; serve with sides like steamed veggies or mashed potatoes for a complete meal experience!

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is not just any ordinary dish—it’s like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket of comfort after a long day! Enjoy every cheesy bite while reminiscing about those moments that make life so deliciously unpredictable!

You Must Know

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole combines comfort food with a twist
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights and will impress your family or guests
It’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavors that linger in the air, tempting everyone to dig in

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Begin browning the meat and sautéing vegetables before mixing in cheese and sauce for the casserole.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add spices like paprika or Worcestershire sauce for an extra flavor kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, keeping that cheesy goodness intact.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve that perfect cheesy texture, don’t skimp on the cheese!
Layer it generously between meat and topping
Make sure to let the casserole rest after baking for better slicing and serving
Always taste as you go to adjust flavors to your liking

The first time I made Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole, my friends devoured it within minutes! Their compliments were overwhelmingly hilarious; they asked if I could make it a weekly tradition.

FAQ

What can I use instead of ground beef in Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?

You can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it beforehand, cover tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

How do I know when the casserole is done cooking?

Check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F using a meat thermometer for safety.