The aroma of a bubbling Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole wafts through the air, promising a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance. Imagine layers of tender meat, gooey cheese, and savory vegetables coming together in a warm embrace—this dish is the ultimate comfort food that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day. cheesy chicken parm soup tater tot casserole recipe bacon cheeseburger casserole. You might also enjoy this Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole recipe.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What can I use instead of ground beef?
- How do I know when the casserole is done?
- Can I freeze Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Picture this: family gathered around the dinner table, laughter filling the room as everyone digs into their plates. The cheesy goodness of this casserole brings back memories of my childhood, where I first discovered the magic of meatloaf. It’s the kind of dish that turns ordinary evenings into memorable feasts and is perfect for potlucks or cozy family dinners.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is super easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights. The rich flavors meld beautifully, creating a delightful bite every time. Visually appealing with its golden cheese crust, it’s sure to impress! Plus, you can customize it with your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste. [/info_box]
My friends couldn’t get enough of this casserole at my last dinner party—it was gone before I could even grab seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Use a mix of lean and fatty ground beef for optimal flavor and moisture.
Breadcrumbs: Choose plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to help bind everything together perfectly.
Eggs: Fresh eggs act as a binder; they keep everything from falling apart.
Shredded Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar or a blend for an extra cheesy experience.
Diced Onions: Sweet onions add flavor; sauté them lightly for maximum sweetness.
Bell Peppers: Any color will do! They add vibrant color and crunch to your casserole.
Garlic Powder: For that irresistible aroma and flavor boost; fresh garlic works too if you prefer. garlic mashed potatoes.
Ketchup: A classic topping that adds tanginess; you can also use barbecue sauce for a smoky twist.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Kitchen Space: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray for easy cleanup later.
Sauté Your Veggies: In a skillet over medium heat, add diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté until they soften and become fragrant—about 5 minutes—then set aside to cool slightly.
Mix the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, cooled veggies, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated—don’t be shy; get your hands in there!
Add Cheese Like You Mean It!: Fold half of the shredded cheese into the meat mixture. This will ensure every bite has cheesy goodness nestled within it.
Shape and Layer It Up!: Transfer the meat mixture into your prepared baking dish and shape it into an even layer. Top generously with remaining cheese—because who doesn’t want more cheese?
Bake It to Perfection: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until cooked through and bubbly. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing—trust me; you want those layers to settle!
Now that you’ve followed these steps, prepare yourself for some serious compliments at dinner tonight! Enjoy every cheesy bite of this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole—it’s comfort food at its finest! For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Delight recipe.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting dish that blends hearty flavors with gooey cheese. It’s easy to customize based on your pantry staples. The aroma will fill your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table for a warm, satisfying meal. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating the oven while you mix the ingredients. Shape the meatloaf and allow it to rest before baking for even cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different cheeses or add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor. Experimenting keeps it fresh!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best texture.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] To achieve a moist meatloaf, don’t skip adding eggs; they bind well and enhance texture. Always let your casserole cool slightly before slicing to maintain shape. Adding fresh herbs can elevate the dish and create a delightful aroma. [/info_box]
There was that one time I made this casserole for my family’s movie night, and it disappeared faster than popcorn! Everyone raved about the cheesy goodness and asked for seconds. It felt great sharing something so delicious and comforting.
FAQ
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The internal temperature should reach 160°F for safe consumption.
Can I freeze Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?
Yes, it freezes well; just wrap tightly before storing to prevent freezer burn.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
Description
Indulge in the Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole, a heartwarming dish that combines layers of seasoned ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and gooey cheese. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this easy-to-make casserole delivers rich flavors and comfort in every bite. Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy a meal that warms both the body and soul.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (lean)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced onions (about 1 medium onion)
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup ketchup
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onions and bell peppers for about 5 minutes until softened. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, cooled veggies, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
- Fold half of the shredded cheese into the meat mixture to ensure cheesy goodness in every bite.
- Transfer the mixture into the baking dish and flatten it evenly; top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until cooked through and bubbly. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 120mg