This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole combines tender meatloaf and colorful veggies, all topped with gooey cheese. It’s a cozy meal your family will love!
I like to add extra veggies for a pop of color. Plus, who can resist all that melted cheese? It’s comfort food at its best! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the dish. You can use turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you’re looking for extra flavor, I often mix in some ground pork.
Veggies: I love adding colorful bell peppers and carrots for texture and sweetness. You can swap in zucchini or mushrooms, depending on what you have on hand or prefer.
Ketchup: This adds moisture and a hint of sweetness. If you’re not a fan, try BBQ sauce or even a homemade tomato sauce to keep it tasty.
Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to for its meltiness. Try mozzarella or Monterey Jack if you want something different. Mix them for more flavor!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Meatloaf Texture?
Getting the right texture for your meatloaf is key! Here are some tips:
- Soaking breadcrumbs in milk helps to keep the meatloaf moist. Don’t skip this step!
- Mix the meat and veggies gently so you don’t overwork it, which can make it dense. Just combine until it’s mixed well.
- Letting the casserole rest after cooking helps it hold its shape better when you slice it.
How to Make Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole With Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meat Mixture:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 cup finely chopped bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Cheese Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Optional:
- 1 cup frozen peas (for added veggies)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 50 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need about 1 hour and 5 minutes to whip up this cheesy, hearty dish that is sure to please everyone at the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prepare it for your delicious meatloaf mixture.
2. Prepare the Breadcrumbs:
In a large mixing bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes. This will soften them and keep your meatloaf nice and moist!
3. Mix the Meat and Veggies:
Add the ground beef, ground pork (if you’re using it), chopped onions, bell peppers, carrots, minced garlic, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the soaked breadcrumbs. Mix everything gently until well combined, but don’t overmix—it’s important to keep it light!
4. Add Extra Veggies:
If you want to sneak in some greens, gently fold in the frozen peas at this stage. They add a nice pop of color and nutrition!
5. Transfer to Casserole Dish:
Spread the meat mixture evenly in the prepared casserole dish. It should fill the dish nicely.
6. Glaze with Ketchup:
Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top of the meat mixture. This will add moisture and a delicious glaze when baked.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes. The meat should be cooked through (check that it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F/71°C).
8. Add the Cheese:
Once the meatloaf is cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Put it back in the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish and Serve:
When it’s done, take it out, and sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions on top for a fresh touch. Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set up nicely so you can cut perfect portions!
Enjoy your Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal!
FAQ for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole With Veggies
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef. Just keep in mind that it may need a little less cooking time, so check for doneness early.
What Other Veggies Can I Add?
You can get creative! Zucchini, spinach, or even corn work well in this casserole. Just chop them finely and add them into the meat mixture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture and assemble the casserole a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.
