Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole: Comfort Food Delight

Name: Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20); 1 cup plain breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; ¾ cup ketchup (divided); 2 cups creamy mashed potatoes; 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)

Recipe By:

Stefanie Weber

Posted:

July 6, 2025

Updated:

July 6, 2025

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The aroma of cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole wafts through the kitchen, making your mouth water in anticipation. Imagine layers of savory ground meat intertwined with gooey cheese, topped with a crispy, golden crust—comfort food at its finest. Balsamic Glazed Meatloaf recipe This dish doesn’t just fill your belly; it wraps you in a warm hug, perfect for cozy family dinners or when you need to impress unexpected guests. Brisket Mac and Cheese.

Picture this: You’ve had a long day, and there’s nothing better than coming home to this delightful casserole bubbling away in the oven. It instantly transports you back to childhood memories of family get-togethers, laughter, and love around the dinner table. Trust me; once you take that first bite, you’ll be savoring every cheesy morsel and reminiscing about those happy moments.

[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole is incredibly easy to whip up on busy nights. The flavor profile balances savory and cheesy goodness that everyone will adore. Visually, it’s a feast for the eyes with its bubbling cheese and golden crust. It’s versatile enough to customize based on your favorite ingredients or what’s in your pantry. [/info_box]

Every time I make this cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole, my family can’t get enough! Their delighted faces say it all when they ask for seconds—or thirds! Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Use 80/20 beef for a good balance of flavor and moisture without excess grease.
Breadcrumbs: Opt for plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs to add texture and help bind the meatloaf together.
Eggs: A couple of large eggs act as a binder, giving your meatloaf structure while keeping it moist.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Choose sharp cheddar for a punchy flavor that compliments the savory meat beautifully.
Ketchup: Classic ketchup adds sweetness and tang but can be substituted with barbecue sauce for an extra zing.

For the Topping:

Mashed Potatoes: Make sure they’re creamy! They create a delicious layer that pairs perfectly with the meat and cheese.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley not only adds color but also brings freshness to balance all that richness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Mixing the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, and half of the ketchup. Mix until well combined but don’t overwork it; we want tender meatloaf.

Shaping It Up: Transfer the mixture into your greased baking dish and shape it into a loaf. Smooth out any bumps for even cooking—think of it as giving your loaf some beauty treatment!

Add Some Flavor on Top: Spread the remaining ketchup evenly over the top of your meatloaf masterpiece. Feel free to get creative here; drizzling some barbecue sauce instead can elevate flavors even more.

Baking Time!: Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes until it’s cooked through and has developed a beautiful golden-brown crust.

Topping It Off!: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for that fresh pop of color—and let’s face it; we eat with our eyes first!

Now you have an irresistible cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole ready to be devoured! Pair it with a simple salad or some steamed veggies if you’re feeling fancy (or guilty about all that cheese). Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole.

This recipe not only satisfies cravings but also offers nostalgic comfort wrapped in layers of deliciousness! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a crowd-pleaser, combining comfort food with cheesy goodness. The aroma wafting through the kitchen will make everyone gather around. This dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, ensuring a happy, satisfied gathering. [/info_box]

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F while you mix the meatloaf ingredients. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a casserole dish. Bake for 45 minutes and add cheese for the last 10 minutes to create that glorious melty topping.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also jazz up your casserole with different cheeses, veggies, or even a BBQ sauce drizzle for extra flavor. For more inspiration, check out this ground beef and potatoes casserole recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through, ensuring that cheesy goodness remains intact.

[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Use leaner ground meats for a healthier twist without sacrificing flavor. Don’t skip resting time after baking; it helps flavors meld beautifully. Experiment with spice levels by adding hot sauce or jalapeños for a kick! [/info_box]

Making Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole takes me back to my childhood when my mom would whip up her version on chilly evenings, filling our home with warmth and laughter. For more inspiration, check out this cheesy mushroom chicken lasagna recipe.

FAQ

What can I serve with Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?

Serve with mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for balance.

Can I freeze Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?

Yes! Freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to three months.

How do I know when the casserole is done cooking?

The internal temperature should reach 160°F for safe consumption.