This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a warm and hearty dish that brings comfort to any meal. Packed with juicy meat, melty cheese, and colorful veggies, it’s a family favorite!
Honestly, who can resist that cheesy goodness on top? I love serving it with some crusty bread to soak up every last bite. You’ll want seconds, I promise! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This recipe uses 1 1/2 pounds of ground beef, but you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. I love a mix of beef and pork for added flavor!
Onion and Garlic: Finely chopped onions and minced garlic bring great flavor. If you’re in a hurry, onion powder and garlic powder will work in a pinch, but fresh is always best.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, but feel free to mix it up! Pepper jack adds a nice kick, or you can use a dairy-free cheese if needed.
Mixed Vegetables: A cup of mixed veggies like bell peppers, corn, peas, and carrots works wonderfully. You can use frozen veggies too—just make sure to thaw and drain them first!
How Do I Keep My Meatloaf Casserole Moist and Flavorful?
Keeping your meatloaf casserole moist is key! Soaking the bread crumbs in milk helps retain moisture, while the eggs bind everything together. Here are some steps to remember:
- Ensure not to overmix when combining ingredients; this keeps it tender.
- Adding veggies not only contributes to flavor, but also helps keep the meat moist.
- A bit of ketchup on top adds tanginess and moisture. Don’t skip this step!
Finally, let it rest after baking—this allows the juices to redistribute, giving you a perfect slice every time!
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as diced bell peppers, corn, peas, and carrots)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and around 55-65 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes, including the resting time. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so that it’s hot and ready for your casserole. This is an essential first step!
2. Prepare the Bread Crumbs:
In a large mixing bowl, add the bread crumbs and pour in the milk. Let this mixture soak for a few minutes until the bread crumbs absorb the milk. This helps keep the meatloaf moist!
3. Mix the Meat Mixture:
Now, add the ground beef (or beef-pork mix), chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme to the soaked bread crumbs. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything together until well combined.
4. Add the Veggies and Cheese:
Gently stir in the mixed vegetables and half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses into your meat mixture. This adds flavor and texture to the casserole.
5. Prepare the Casserole Dish:
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a little oil. Spread the meat mixture evenly into the dish, pressing it down gently to level it out.
6. Add Ketchup:
Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top of the meatloaf mixture. This adds a nice glaze and flavor while baking.
7. Cheese It Up:
Finally, sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top. Who doesn’t love an extra layer of cheese?
8. Bake the Casserole:
Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for about 55-65 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 160°F or 71°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Let It Rest:
Once it’s done, take the casserole out of the oven, and allow it to rest for about 5-10 minutes. This helps it set before slicing and serving.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
If you’d like, garnish with some chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with Veggies!
It’s a delightful dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone around the table! 😊
FAQ for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
Can I Use Different Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef or a mix of beef and pork works best, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just be aware that leaner meats may require a little extra moisture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave until warmed through, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies or whatever you have on hand. Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms would be great additions. Just ensure they’re chopped small so they blend well with the meat mixture.
How Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or oats. Just check that the other ingredients, like Worcestershire sauce, are also gluten-free. Enjoy without worrying about gluten!
