Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting twist on the classic meatloaf, baked with plenty of melted cheese both inside and on top. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners, delivering juicy, flavorful meat combined with a gooey cheese finish.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef (Use 80/20 for best juiciness and flavor.)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (Plain or panko breadcrumbs can be used.)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (Shred your own from a block for best melting.)
• 1/2 cup milk (Helps keep the meatloaf moist.)
• 1/4 cup ketchup (For flavor and moisture.)
• 1/4 cup chopped onion (Finely chopped or grated; sauté for a milder flavor.)
• 2 eggs (Room temperature preferred for better mixing.)
• To taste salt and pepper (Adjust based on preference.)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (For additional flavor.)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (Adds an herbal touch.)
• 1 cup additional cheese for topping (Any cheese of choice for a melty finish.)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your baking dish.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar, milk, ketchup, chopped onion, eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
3. Step 3: Mix all ingredients gently until combined, being careful not to overwork the meat to keep it tender.
4. Step 4: Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish. Shape it into a loaf or spread evenly, smoothing the top for even cheese melting.
5. Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Check that the loaf pulls slightly from the edges and reaches an internal temperature of 155–160°F.
6. Step 6: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle with the additional cheese.
7. Step 7: Return to the oven for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Step 8: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving warm.

Tips & Variations

• For a milder onion flavor, sauté the chopped onion before adding it to the mixture.
• Try mixing in finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and nutrients.
• Use different cheese varieties like mozzarella or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles.
• Adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce can deepen the savory flavor.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through to keep the cheese melty and the meat moist.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be used as alternatives, but keep in mind that cooking times and moisture levels may vary.

How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 155–160°F and pulls slightly away from the edges of the baking dish. Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable method.

Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 137 reviews

This Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish combining ground beef, cheddar cheese, and savory seasonings baked to perfection. The addition of melted cheese on top creates a gooey, delicious finish that makes this casserole a family favorite and perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.

• Author: Anna
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Meatloaf Mixture

• 2 pounds ground beef (Use 80/20 for best juiciness and flavor)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (Plain or panko breadcrumbs can be used)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (Shred your own from a block for best melting)
• 1/2 cup milk (Helps keep the meatloaf moist)
• 1/4 cup ketchup (For flavor and moisture)
• 1/4 cup chopped onion (Finely chopped or grated; sauté for a milder flavor)
• 2 eggs (Room temperature preferred for better mixing)
• Salt and pepper to taste (Adjust based on preference)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (For additional flavor)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (Adds an herbal touch)

Topping

• 1 cup additional cheese for topping (Any cheese of choice for a melty finish)

Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Combining Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, ketchup, chopped onion, eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently until fully combined, taking care not to overwork the meat which can make the meatloaf tough.
3. Shaping the Loaf: Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape or spread it evenly for a casserole style. Smooth the top to ensure even cheese melting later on.
4. Baking: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. Check that the meatloaf pulls slightly away from the edges of the dish and verify the internal temperature reaches between 155–160°F (68–71°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
5. Cheese Topping: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and sprinkle the additional cheese evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
6. Serving: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes to set up. Then slice and serve warm with your preferred side dishes.

Notes

• Using 80/20 ground beef helps keep the meatloaf juicy and flavorful.
• Shredding your own cheddar cheese improves melting quality compared to pre-shredded varieties.
• For a milder onion flavor, sauté the chopped onions before mixing them in.
• Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to guarantee safe doneness.
• Allow the meatloaf to rest a few minutes after baking to maintain its shape when slicing.

Keywords: meatloaf casserole, cheesy meatloaf, baked meatloaf, comfort food, ground beef casserole