This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a hearty dish filled with flavorful meat, gooey cheese, and plenty of veggies. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
I love how easy it is to whip up. Just mix everything together, bake, and you’ve got a family-friendly meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, extra cheese is always a good idea! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The recipe calls for ground beef, but you can use a mix of beef and pork for added flavor. If you want a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well too!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a nice sharp flavor. Feel free to swap it for mozzarella, pepper jack, or a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for alternatives.
Veggies: The casserole shines with veggies like zucchini and bell peppers. You can substitute with mushrooms, spinach, or carrots based on what you have on hand!
Breadcrumbs: Regular or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs work great. If gluten-free is needed, opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed oats.
How Do I Ensure My Meatloaf Casserole Stays Moist?
Keeping moisture in the casserole is key! Start by using ground meats like beef or pork that have enough fat, as leaner meats can dry out. Mixing in milk and eggs helps to bind and add moisture.
- Don’t skip the veggies; they release moisture as they cook.
- Mix the ingredients just until combined to avoid a tough texture.
- A good trick is to cover the casserole with foil for the first half of baking to keep the steam in. Remove the foil later to allow the cheese to brown nicely!
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 cup finely chopped bell peppers (red and green)
- 1 cup chopped zucchini or yellow squash
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup marinara sauce or ketchup
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Cooking spray or a little oil for greasing the casserole dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes of prep time, plus 50-60 minutes to bake. Total time is around 1 hour and 15-20 minutes. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a little oil. This will keep everything from sticking!
2. Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, finely chopped onion, bell peppers, zucchini, and minced garlic. This colorful veggie mix not only adds flavor but also makes the dish look fantastic!
3. Add Ingredients Together:
Next, add in the breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix gently until everything is just combined—try not to overmix, as that can make the meatloaf tough!
4. Cheese It Up:
Now, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped parsley, remembering to save some cheese for the topping. Cheese makes everything better!
5. Transfer to Dish:
Carefully transfer the meat mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Press it down evenly so it cooks nicely throughout.
6. Add the Sauce:
Spread the marinara sauce or ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This gives a tasty glaze and keeps the meatloaf moist.
7. Add More Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese generously on top of the sauce. The more cheese, the better!
8. Bake It:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. It’s ready when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly on top.
9. Let It Rest:
Once baked, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices settle, making for easier serving.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve warm, either on its own or with a side salad or creamy mashed potatoes. Enjoy this comforting, veggie-packed cheesy masterpiece!
FAQ for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes, absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner option. Just keep in mind that these meats may cook slightly faster, so check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C).
What Should I Do If My Casserole is Too Dry?
If you find your casserole is a bit dry, you can add more moisture next time by incorporating an extra egg or a splash more milk. Additionally, covering the dish with foil during the first half of baking can help retain moisture.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm it back up in the oven until heated through. Adding a little splash of milk can help refresh the texture.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Casserole?
Definitely! This recipe is very versatile, and you can include a variety of vegetables based on your preference. Consider adding spinach, mushrooms, or grated carrots for extra flavor and nutrition!