Irresistible Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

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 seasoned breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup diced bell peppers (mixed colors); 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup ketchup (divided); 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: June 28, 2025

by Felicia Antonio

Leave a Comment

0 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe·Leave a Review

There’s something undeniably comforting about a Cheesy Spinach Zucchini Boats/”>low carb cheesy zucchini boats Picture yourself cutting into this masterpiece, the cheese stretching gloriously as you serve it up—pure culinary bliss.

Jump to:

Essential Ingredients
Let’s Make it Together
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Add Your Touch
Storing & Reheating
FAQ
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
How do I know when it’s done cooking?
📖 Recipe Card

If you’re like me, you probably have fond memories of family gatherings where meatloaf was the star of the show, perhaps served with a side of mashed potatoes or slathered in ketchup. Now, let’s elevate that classic comfort food into a casserole that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also makes for an easy weeknight meal or an impressive potluck contribution. cheesy mashed potato puffs Get ready to dive into cheesy goodness with every forkful!

[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights. Its rich flavors and creamy texture will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. The visual appeal of melted cheese over hearty meatloaf is sure to impress at any gathering. It’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or toppings. [/info_box]

I once made this dish for a family reunion, and let me tell you, the smiles on everyone’s faces were priceless—especially my uncle, who declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.”

Essential Ingredients

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

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option while keeping all the rich flavors.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer using seasoned breadcrumbs as they add extra flavor and help bind the meatloaf together.
Eggs: Eggs act as a binding agent; use large eggs for best results.
Shredded Cheese: Choose your favorite melty cheese—cheddar or mozzarella works wonders in this casserole.
Bell Peppers: Fresh bell peppers add color and crunch; feel free to mix different colors for visual appeal.
Onion: Use finely chopped onion; it adds sweetness when cooked and enhances overall flavor.
Ketchup: This old-school condiment brings moisture and tanginess to the meatloaf—you can even top it with more before baking!
Worcestershire Sauce: A splash of Worcestershire sauce packs in umami flavor; don’t skip this!
Garlic Powder: For an aromatic boost that elevates the entire dish—fresh garlic can work too if you’re feeling fancy.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together; taste and adjust according to your preference.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grab your favorite baking dish and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray.

Mix Your Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped onions, diced bell peppers, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands (clean ones!) to mix until just combined—avoid overmixing!

Add Ketchup: Once mixed well, pour half of the ketchup into the meat mixture. This adds moisture and flavor while helping bind everything together.

Shape Into Casserole: Transfer the meat mixture into your prepared baking dish and form it into an even layer. Smooth out the top so it bakes evenly—this isn’t modern art; we want consistent cooking here!

Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top of your meat mixture—don’t hold back! Then drizzle the remaining ketchup on top for added sweetness during baking.

Bake It All Together: Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes until heated through and browned on top. Enjoy those mouthwatering aromas filling your kitchen!

As soon as it’s ready, allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before serving—a little patience goes a long way!

And there you have it: Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole that’s bound to become a family favorite. The first bite will send you straight back to those nostalgic gatherings while delighting with its modern twist! For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole recipe.

[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a comfort food classic that combines rich flavors with cheesy goodness. The aroma of baking meat and melted cheese fills the kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere for family gatherings. This dish is perfect for leftovers, making it ideal for meal prep. [/info_box]

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground meat in a skillet, then mix in other ingredients before baking at 350°F. This sequence ensures flavors meld beautifully while maintaining a juicy texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, preserving that cheesy deliciousness.

[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] For optimal flavor, season your meat mixture generously; salt and pepper are your best friends here. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking for easier serving. A sprinkle of fresh herbs just before serving adds vibrancy and freshness to each bite. [/info_box]

The first time I made Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole, my friends devoured it so quickly that I barely had time to snap a picture! Their compliments were overwhelming, and it became a staple at our potlucks. easy cheeseburger sliders quick and easy cheesy taco pasta.

FAQ

What can I use instead of ground beef?

Ground turkey or chicken works well as a lighter alternative in this casserole.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms enhance flavor and nutrition significantly.

How do I know when it’s done cooking?

Check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F for safe consumption; use a meat thermometer.