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5 Star Cheesy Loaded meatloaf casserole Joy

meatloaf casserole

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You will love this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole. It bakes up tender and flavorful right in a casserole dish, skipping the fuss of shaping a traditional loaf. This recipe focuses on simple steps for a satisfying, weeknight-friendly family meal packed with savory flavor and melted cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (for mixing)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, egg, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and 1/2 cup of the ketchup. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
  3. Spread the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Press it down lightly.
  4. Bake for 25 minutes.
  5. Remove the dish from the oven. Spread the remaining 1/2 cup of ketchup evenly over the top of the partially cooked meatloaf.
  6. Sprinkle both the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the ketchup layer.
  7. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  8. Let the meatloaf casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For a make-ahead option, mix all ingredients except the cheese topping and press into the dish. Cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add 10 minutes to the initial baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
  • Add 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots) to the meat mixture for extra nutrition.
  • Use a mix of your favorite melting cheeses for the topping.

Nutrition