This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food! It combines juicy meatloaf, melted cheese, and colorful veggies all in one dish. Yum!
I love how easy it is to prepare! Just mix, layer, and bake. The melted cheese on top is my favorite part. It makes everything extra cozy and delicious! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually use a mix of beef and pork for added flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works great too!
Breadcrumbs: For a gluten-free option, try using crushed gluten-free crackers or oats. They hold everything together nicely!
Cheese: I love cheddar and mozzarella for their meltiness. Feel free to substitute with any cheese you prefer, like pepper jack for some spice, or a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Vegetables: The mixed bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms add color and nutrition. You can swap them with other veggies like spinach, broccoli, or even frozen mixed veggies. Just adjust cooking time as needed!
How Do I Ensure My Meatloaf Casserole Is Moist and Flavorful?
Achieving a moist meatloaf casserole is all about balancing the ingredients. First, don’t overmix the meat when combining with other ingredients, as this can make it tough. Aim for gentle mixing to keep the texture tender.
- Use breadcrumbs soaked in milk to add moisture.
- Adding sautéed veggies not only contributes to flavor but also keeps the meatloaf moist.
- Cover the dish with foil during the initial baking time to prevent drying out.
- Always let it rest after baking! This helps redistribute the juices for even more delicious bites.
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 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (mixed colors)
- 1 cup chopped zucchini or summer squash
- 1 cup chopped mushrooms
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 50 minutes to bake. Altogether, plan for about 1 hour and 5 minutes before it’s ready to serve. A little patience goes a long way for a beautiful, cheesy dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, get that oven going! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease your 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything together gently until just combined—don’t overwork the meat or it can get tough!
3. Sauté the Veggies:
Now, grab a skillet! Heat the olive oil over medium heat and add in the diced bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and shredded carrots. Sauté until they are just tender, about 4-5 minutes, then take them off the heat and set aside.
4. Layer the Casserole:
Spread half of the meat mixture evenly in the bottom of your prepared casserole dish. Then, layer the sautéed veggies on top of the meat, followed by half of the diced tomatoes and half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Yum!
5. Finish Layering:
Now, add the remaining meat mixture on top, pressing it down lightly. Next, spread the rest of the diced tomatoes over the meat layer, and then sprinkle on the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese. So cheesy!
6. Bake:
Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 35 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the meat is cooked through (aim for an internal temp of 160°F / 71°C).
7. Cool and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps everything settle and makes it easier to serve.
8. Garnish:
If you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness right before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, hearty casserole!
This dish truly brings together tender, flavorful meatloaf with nutritious veggies and gooey melted cheese—a perfect meal for the whole family!
FAQs for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a healthier or vegetarian option. Just be mindful of cooking times, as leaner meats may cook faster!
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you need a breadcrumb alternative, try using crushed crackers, panko, or even oats for a gluten-free option. Just make sure they’re finely crushed so they mix well with the other ingredients!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply use the microwave or place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You may want to add a little splash of water or broth to keep it moist!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance! Assemble it according to the instructions, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time for it to heat through completely.
