There’s something undeniably comforting about a casserole, isn’t there? It’s like a warm hug on a chilly day. This cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole takes those classic meatloaf flavors we all know and love, and turns them into a hearty, gooey masterpiece that’s perfect for any dinner table. I first whipped this up when I was trying to please my picky family, and let me tell you, it was a hit! The combination of rich meat and melty cheese creates a savory delight that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Trust me, you’re going to love it!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (you can use lean ground beef for a healthier option)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (these help bind everything together)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (packed for extra cheesiness)
- 1/4 cup milk (this moistens the mixture, making it tender)
- 1 egg (this acts as a binder to hold everything in place)
- 1/2 onion, diced (for that lovely flavor boost)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (because who doesn’t love garlic?)
- 1 teaspoon salt (to enhance all the flavors)
- 1 teaspoon pepper (for a little kick)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (this brings a rich, tangy layer on top)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for that gooey, melty finish)
How to Prepare Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures your casserole cooks evenly from the moment you pop it in. Trust me, nothing’s worse than a casserole that’s cooked on the outside but still cold in the middle!
Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, egg, diced onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Now, it’s time to get your hands in there! Mix everything together until it’s well combined—don’t be shy! You want to make sure all those ingredients are evenly distributed for maximum flavor in every bite.
Shape and Assemble
Next, transfer that delicious mixture into a greased casserole dish. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf—this doesn’t have to be perfect, just make sure it’s nice and compact. The loaf shape helps it cook evenly, and it’ll make for easy slicing later on. Plus, it’s the classic meatloaf look we all love!
Add Marinara Sauce
Now for the fun part! Spread that marinara sauce evenly over the top of your meatloaf. This not only adds a wonderful layer of flavor but also keeps the meatloaf moist while it bakes. It’s like giving your casserole a cozy blanket of sauce—yum!
Baking Instructions
It’s time to bake! Slide your casserole into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 45 minutes. To check for doneness, you can use a meat thermometer—you’re looking for an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). If you don’t have one, just make sure there’s no pink in the center. If it’s looking a bit too brown on top, you can cover it loosely with foil.
Add Cheese and Final Bake
Once the meatloaf is cooked through, take it out of the oven and sprinkle that glorious shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Return it to the oven for another 10 minutes, just long enough for the cheese to melt into a bubbly, gooey goodness. Oh, the smell will be heavenly! Afterward, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing—this helps it hold its shape and makes serving a breeze!
Tips for Success
Let me share some of my best tips to make sure your cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole turns out absolutely perfect every time!
- Don’t skimp on the mixing: The more you mix the meatloaf ingredients, the better they’ll hold together. Just make sure not to overwork it—gently combine until everything is incorporated.
- Vegetable boost: If you want to sneak in some extra nutrition, consider adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture. They add great flavor and texture!
- Cheese choices: Feel free to switch up the cheeses! I love using pepper jack for a spicy kick, or you can try a blend of cheeses for even more flavor.
- Leftover magic: If you have any leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They make for an awesome next-day lunch!
- Cooking time tips: If your meatloaf is browning too quickly, cover it with foil during the last part of baking to prevent it from drying out.
- Resting is key: Let the casserole sit for about 5-10 minutes after baking before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making each slice more flavorful and easier to serve!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this cheesy, comforting dish that everyone will rave about!
Variations
One of the best things about this cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole is how easy it is to customize! You can really let your creativity shine with a few simple changes. Here are some fun variations to consider:
- Cheese Swap: Try using different cheeses to change up the flavor! Pepper jack adds a nice kick, while gouda brings a smoky richness. Or mix it up with a blend of your favorites!
- Veggie Delight: Toss in some diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach for a colorful and nutritious boost. Just make sure to chop them small so they blend in nicely with the meatloaf.
- Herb Infusion: Add some fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil to the meat mixture for a burst of freshness. It’s a simple way to elevate the flavor!
- BBQ Twist: Swap the marinara sauce for your favorite barbecue sauce. It gives the casserole a sweet and tangy flavor that’s absolutely delicious!
- Italian Style: Mix in Italian seasoning or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for an Italian twist. You could even layer some sliced tomatoes on top before adding the cheese!
- Stuffed Meatloaf: If you’re feeling adventurous, try making a stuffed version by placing a layer of cheese in the center of the meatloaf before baking. It creates a delicious surprise in every slice!
Don’t be afraid to experiment! Each variation brings something unique to this comforting dish, so have fun with it and make it your own!
Nutritional Information
Before we dig into the deliciousness, it’s good to know what you’re getting! Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so this information is an estimate. Here’s a breakdown per serving (1 slice):
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Remember, this hearty casserole is a great source of protein and can be part of a balanced meal. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
FAQ Section
Got questions about this cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that might pop up as you whip up this delicious dish:
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. It might need a few extra minutes in the oven since it’ll be cold from the fridge.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through. It stays delicious, trust me!
Can I substitute the ground beef?
For sure! You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that the flavor might be slightly different, but it’ll still be tasty! You could also try a plant-based meat substitute if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
How can I tell when the casserole is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature! It should read 160°F (70°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, just make sure the meatloaf is no longer pink in the center. You’ll know it’s ready for that cheesy topping!
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake it as directed.
What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
No problem! You can substitute crushed crackers or even oats in a pinch. Just make sure to adjust the quantity if needed, as different binders may absorb moisture differently.
Can I add more cheese?
Oh, definitely! If you’re a cheese lover like me, feel free to pile on the mozzarella or mix in some parmesan for an extra cheesy delight. The more cheese, the merrier!
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions—I’m here to help you make the best cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole ever!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and satisfying: This casserole is loaded with protein and cheesy goodness, making it a filling meal for any hungry family.
- Easy to prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this up even on a busy weeknight!
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the familiar flavors of meatloaf and melted cheese—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Versatile: You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or cheeses, making it a perfect canvas for your creativity.
- Great for leftovers: This casserole tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic option for meal prep!
- Comfort food at its best: The combination of rich flavors and warm, cheesy texture will make you feel right at home.
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole: 5 Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A hearty and flavorful casserole loaded with cheesy meatloaf goodness.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, milk, egg, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and shape it into a loaf.
- Spread marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until cheese is melted.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole, meatloaf casserole, cheesy casserole