why make this recipe
Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole is a cozy and comforting dish that brings the family together. It combines the delicious flavors of meatloaf with cheesy goodness in a dish that’s easy to make. This recipe is great for busy weeknights and will please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, leftovers make for a tasty lunch the next day.
how to make Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 egg
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated cheese, milk, ketchup, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and egg. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and shape it into a loaf.
- Top with additional ketchup or cheese if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
- Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
how to serve Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole
Serve Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole warm, sliced into pieces. Pair it with some steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it with mashed potatoes or on a bun for a delicious meatloaf sandwich.
how to store Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
tips to make Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to enhance the flavor.
- For extra cheesiness, mix different types of cheese, like mozzarella and parmesan.
- Make sure not to overmix the meat mixture, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
variation
You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition. You may also swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the dish.
FAQs
Can I make Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just shape it into a loaf right before baking.
Can I use different types of meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of meats if you prefer.
What should I do if my meatloaf is too dry?
If your meatloaf turns out dry, try adding a bit more milk or a splash of broth to the mixture next time. You can also cover it with foil during baking to retain moisture.
Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake for 30 minutes to partially cook the meatloaf.
- Remove the casserole from the oven. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top of the meatloaf.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the meatloaf is cooked through (internal temperature 160°F/71°C).
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute for a more tender meatloaf.