There’s something undeniably magical about the aromas wafting from a Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole. Picture this: the savory scent of ground beef mingling with melting cheese, the sweet undertones of caramelized onions, and the satisfying crunch of crispy topping. cheesy chicken bacon ranch sandwich creamy chicken mac and cheese It’s comfort food at its finest, promising a cozy meal that wraps around you like a warm blanket on a chilly evening. For more inspiration, check out this hearty ground beef casserole recipe.
This dish is more than just food; it’s a nostalgia trip wrapped in gooey goodness. I remember the first time I made it for my family—a delightful chaos ensued as they dove into the bubbling casserole dish. Laughter echoed through the kitchen, and I knew from their delighted faces that this recipe would become a staple in our home. hamburger hashbrown casserole Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends, this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole brings everyone together for moments filled with joy and tasty bites.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] The ease of preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights without compromising flavor. The cheese adds an irresistible creaminess that pairs beautifully with savory meatloaf. With vibrant toppings, this dish is visually stunning and sure to impress your guests. Enjoy it as a comforting main course or as part of a potluck spread—its versatility knows no bounds. [/info_box]
I still chuckle when I think about my friend who practically inhaled her portion, declaring it life-changing.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease while still retaining rich flavor.
Breadcrumbs: These bind the meatloaf together; choose plain or Italian seasoned for extra flavor.
Eggs: Acts as a binding agent; large eggs work best for this recipe.
Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness; use yellow or white for optimal flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar gives that gooey cheese pull; feel free to mix in other cheeses.
Ketchup: A classic topping that adds tanginess and moisture; don’t skip it!
Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder): Essential for flavor; adjust according to taste preferences.
Green Bell Peppers: Adds crunch and color; chop them finely for even distribution. spicy buffalo chicken stuffed peppers.
For the Topping:
Crispy Fried Onions: These add texture and flavor; sprinkle generously over the top before baking.
Parsley (optional): Fresh parsley adds color and freshness; chop finely if using.
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 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly from the moment you pop it in.
Mix Your Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped onions, bell peppers, and seasonings. Mix until everything is well incorporated but be careful not to overmix!
Add Cheese: Fold in half of your shredded cheddar cheese into the meat mixture for cheesy goodness throughout. Trust me—you want every bite loaded with cheese!
Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon your mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Press down gently to create an even layer—this helps with cooking consistency.
Topping Time: Spread ketchup generously over the top of your meatloaf mixture. Then sprinkle the remaining cheddar and crispy fried onions on top for added crunch and flavor.
Bake Until Golden: Place in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-50 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells heavenly!
Enjoy every cheesy bite of this delightful casserole that easily converts any meal into an occasion!
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] The Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is more than just comfort food; it’s a crowd-pleaser! The delicious cheese melted on top brings everyone together, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks. The delightful aromas will fill your kitchen, igniting appetites and sparking laughter. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meat in a skillet before mixing with other ingredients to lock in flavor. While your meat cools, prepare the casserole dish and preheat your oven to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add veggies like bell peppers and spinach for extra nutrition. Experimenting with different cheeses can elevate the dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm, allowing the cheese to melt back into gooey perfection.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] To achieve that perfect cheesy crust, broil for a couple of minutes at the end of cooking. Don’t skip chilling the mixture before baking; this helps it hold its shape better. Always taste your meat mixture before baking to adjust seasoning as needed. [/info_box]
Sharing my first experience with Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole still makes me chuckle. My cousin thought I was serving a fancy dish, but it turned out to be a simple yet delicious family favorite!
FAQ
What ingredients are essential for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?
Ground beef, breadcrumbs, cheese, and seasonings are must-have ingredients.
Can I make Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.
How do I keep my casserole from drying out?
Add moisture with eggs and don’t overbake; check for doneness often!
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting dish that combines savory ground beef, gooey cheddar cheese, and crispy toppings in a delightful bake. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this casserole is sure to warm hearts and satisfy appetites. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s a nostalgic favorite that everyone will love.
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup green bell peppers, finely chopped
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup crispy fried onions (for topping)
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped onions, bell peppers, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until just combined.
- Fold in half of the cheddar cheese into the mixture.
- Transfer the meat mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and press down gently.
- Spread ketchup evenly on top and sprinkle with remaining cheddar cheese and crispy fried onions.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Add vegetables like spinach for extra nutrition. Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Let leftovers cool before storing in an airtight container; reheat in the oven for best results.
