This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting dish that brings together juicy meatloaf, gooey cheese, and colorful veggies all in one pan. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
I love how the cheese melts perfectly over the meatloaf, making it hard to resist. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing! 😄
It’s super easy to prepare, and I often make it on busy nights. Just mix, layer, and bake—dinner is ready in no time, and everyone loves it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using a mix of ground beef and ground pork for extra flavor. If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work great, but if you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. You could also use oats for a healthier twist—just blend them a bit for a finer texture.
Mixed Vegetables: Feel free to get creative with the vegetables! Spinach, mushrooms, or corn are all tasty alternatives. Frozen veggies can also be used, just thaw and drain them before adding.
Cheese: While I use cheddar cheese for its rich flavor, a combination of mozzarella and provolone works well too. For a lighter option, try reducing the cheese or using part-skim varieties.
How Do You Ensure the Meatloaf Casserole is Moist and Flavorful?
Getting a juicy meatloaf casserole is all about the right ratios and techniques. Here’s how I do it:
- Mix the ground meat with moisture-rich ingredients like milk and egg to keep it tender.
- The sautéed veggies not only add flavor but also moisture, so don’t skip that step!
- Be gentle when mixing. Overworking can lead to a dense texture.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 160°F (71°C) for safety.
Letting it rest after baking helps redistribute the juices, keeping each slice moist!
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1.5 pounds ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and ground pork)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as diced bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce or ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for sautéing veggies)
- Fresh parsley or chives (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45-55 minutes to bake. Overall, you should expect to spend around 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes from start to finish, including prep, baking, and resting time. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to make sure your casserole doesn’t stick.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened—this should take about 3-4 minutes. Next, toss in the mixed vegetables and cook for another 3-5 minutes until they’re slightly tender. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the veggies cool for a moment.
3. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix it gently until everything is blended nicely. Then, fold in the sautéed veggies and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Spread half of the meat mixture evenly into your prepared casserole dish. Next, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese over this meat layer. Then, add the other half of the meat mixture on top, pressing it down gently so it holds together.
5. Add Toppings and Bake:
Spread the tomato sauce or ketchup evenly over the top layer of meat. This adds flavor and keeps everything moist while baking. Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Broil for Extra Flavor:
If you like a bubbly top, you can broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn—just enough to melt the cheese and give it that golden finish!
7. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, let the casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes. This helps it set and makes serving easier. Before serving, consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a touch of color and flavor. Enjoy your warm, cheesy, and loaded meatloaf casserole!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can definitely use ground turkey for a lighter version of this casserole. Just be mindful that turkey can be a bit drier, so you might want to add a little extra milk or adjust the baking time to ensure it stays moist!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative with your vegetable choices! Other great options include spinach, mushrooms, corn, or even broccoli. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces so they blend well into the casserole.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven, so it bakes evenly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You might want to cover it with foil to retain moisture!
