Name: Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 large eggs; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1/2 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping); Salt and pepper to taste

It’s a rainy Sunday afternoon, the kind that calls for warm hugs and even warmer food. Picture this—your family gathered around the table, laughter echoing as they dig into a bubbling hot dish of Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole. The smell wafts through your kitchen like a cozy blanket on a chilly night. You can hear the squeals of excitement as each forkful reveals layers of melted cheese and savory goodness.

Now, let me take you back to the first time I made this delightful concoction. It was one of those days when I thought I could tackle anything in the kitchen—like a culinary superhero! Spoiler alert: I ended up with more cheese on my shirt than in the casserole. But hey, that’s what makes cooking fun! This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or potluck parties where you want to impress without breaking a sweat.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
The rich flavors mingle delightfully in every bite while the gooey cheese adds visual appeal
It’s versatile too—you can customize ingredients based on your pantry staples or dietary preferences

I remember my niece took one bite of this casserole and declared it “the best thing ever.” She even tried to bribe me for the leftovers!

Essential Ingredients

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

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a hearty base that doesn’t get greasy during cooking.
Breadcrumbs: Regular or panko breadcrumbs help bind everything together while adding texture.
Shredded Cheese: Go for sharp cheddar or mozzarella; both add creaminess and flavor.
Eggs: One or two eggs help hold your casserole together—think of them as the glue!
Onion: Chopped onions provide sweetness and depth; sauté them until translucent for maximum flavor.
Ketchup: A classic topping that adds tangy sweetness; feel free to mix in some BBQ sauce for extra flair.
Seasonings (Salt, Pepper): Essential to enhance all those glorious flavors; don’t skimp on these!

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 even cooking throughout your casserole. Grease a baking dish with nonstick spray to help with easy cleanup later.

Sauté the Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions until they become soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes should do it! This step adds an aromatic base to our mixture.

Mix Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, shredded cheese (save some for topping), eggs, sautéed onions, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix well until everything is evenly incorporated—this is where you channel your inner chef!

Add to Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture into your greased baking dish. Press it down gently but firmly so it holds together nicely during baking.

Topping Time!: Spread an additional layer of ketchup (or BBQ sauce) on top of your meat mixture before sprinkling leftover cheese generously over everything—because who doesn’t love more cheese?

Bake Until Golden Brown: Place your filled baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye out until it’s golden brown on top and cooked through—the aroma will be hard to resist!

With each step of this process, you’ll witness the transformation from raw ingredients into a bubbling masterpiece that can only be described as comfort food heaven!

Now there you have it—a fantastic Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole recipe that’s sure to please everyone at your table! Enjoy every gooey bite and remember: more cheese is always better!

You Must Know

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is comfort food at its finest
With hearty flavors and gooey cheese, it’s a family favorite
The aroma will have everyone flocking to the kitchen, and the leftovers (if any) disappear faster than you can say “casserole.”

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing your meatloaf ingredients thoroughly, then layer them in a greased casserole dish. Bake until cooked through, and broil for that glorious cheesy crust.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. Experimenting with different cheeses can also create exciting flavor profiles.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, keeping that cheesy goodness intact.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For a juicy meatloaf, don’t overmix; just combine ingredients until blended
Adding breadcrumbs helps absorb moisture, ensuring every bite is flavorful
Topping with extra cheese makes this casserole even more delightful and inviting

Creating my Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole was a game-changer during potluck season; everyone raved about it, and I felt like a rockstar chef!

FAQ

What kind of meat works best for this casserole?

Ground beef or turkey are great options; they provide excellent flavor and texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it the night before and bake it when you’re ready.

How do I prevent my casserole from drying out?

Cover with foil while baking to retain moisture, removing it during the last few minutes.