There’s something magical about the aroma of a Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole wafting through your home, isn’t there? Imagine the rich scent of seasoned meat mingling with bubbling cheese, creating a symphony of flavors that dances in the air. Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights in or family gatherings that turn into epic feasts. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter cheese bombs recipe.
Every bite of this casserole tells a story—one that transports you back to childhood dinners where laughter filled the room and seconds were a must. It’s the kind of dish you whip up when you want to impress guests or simply treat yourself after a long day. The anticipation builds as it bakes, and your taste buds tingle with delight at the thought of sinking your fork into this cheesy, meaty masterpiece.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight meals a breeze. The layers of flavor create a delightful experience for your taste buds. Visually appealing, it’s sure to steal the show on any dinner table. Versatile enough to customize ingredients based on personal preferences or what’s on hand. [/info_box]
I distinctly remember the first time I served this dish at a family gathering; everyone went back for thirds and even fought over the last piece.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Aim for 80/20 beef for a juicy texture that keeps everything moist during cooking.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain breadcrumbs to absorb moisture and bind all ingredients together perfectly.
Shredded Cheese: A blend of cheddar and mozzarella gives that gooey cheesy goodness everyone loves.
Onion: Finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth; sautéing it enhances its flavor even more.
Ketchup: A classic topping that caramelizes beautifully, adding tangy sweetness to each serving.
Eggs: They act as a binder; don’t skip these as they help hold everything together.
Seasonings: A mix of garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs brings everything to life.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheating and Mixing: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, eggs, and seasonings until well blended. You want everything evenly mixed but don’t overdo it; we’re not making rubber bands here.
Forming the Casserole: Transfer your meat mixture into a greased baking dish. Shape it into an even loaf shape while leaving some space around the edges for heat circulation. Visualize it like molding clay but way more appetizing.
Layering with Cheese: Now comes the fun part! Generously sprinkle half of your shredded cheese on top of the meatloaf. This will melt into gooey perfection while baking—seriously drool-worthy!
Topping Off: Slather ketchup over the cheese layer like you’re painting a masterpiece. It’s not just for looks; it helps keep everything moist while adding delicious flavor.
Baking Time: Slide your creation into the oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes or until it’s cooked through (an internal temperature of 160°F or 70°C). Your kitchen will smell divine!
Finishing Touch: Just before serving, sprinkle remaining cheese on top and let it bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Trust me; it’s worth every second!
And there you have it—a Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole that not only satisfies hunger but also creates memorable moments around your dinner table! For more inspiration, check out this cheesy mushroom lasagna recipe.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that combines comfort food with simplicity. The aromatic blend of spices and the gooey cheese topping create an enticing scent that fills your kitchen. It’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while mixing the meatloaf ingredients. Assemble the casserole in layers, ensuring even cooking and maximizing flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add your favorite veggies. Ground Turkey and Peppers Stir Fry Experiment with different cheeses to make it uniquely yours. Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to keep the cheese melty and delicious.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Use high-fat ground meat for a juicier meatloaf that won’t dry out. Make sure to mix gently; over-mixing can lead to a dense texture. Let it rest after baking to retain moisture and enhance flavors. [/info_box]
Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of family gatherings, where everyone eagerly waits for that first cheesy bite, smiles all around as they dig in together. Cheesy Taco Rice Recipe.
FAQ
Can I make Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it beforehand and bake when ready.
What sides pair well with this casserole?
Mashed potatoes or a fresh salad complement the flavors beautifully.
How do I adjust the spice level?
Add more hot sauce or chili flakes for extra heat; taste as you go!
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to your table. With layers of seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and tangy ketchup, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or gatherings. It’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight meals while creating delicious memories.
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian herbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, eggs, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs until just blended.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and shape into a loaf.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the meatloaf.
- Spread ketchup on top of the cheese layer.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Add remaining cheese on top and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 166g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Swap ground beef for turkey for a lighter option. Enhance flavors by adding diced vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before slicing for better texture.
