Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Dish

Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. Growing up, my family often enjoyed meatloaf, but this casserole version takes it to a whole new level with its gooey cheese and hearty ingredients. The combination of seasoned ground meat, savory spices, and melted cheese creates a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly comforting.

People love Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole for its rich flavors and satisfying texture, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. It’s a dish that evokes nostalgia while also being convenient to prepare, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen. Join me as we dive into this scrumptious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or mixed herbs)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup marinara sauce (for topping)
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese for topping (optional)

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

Let’s get started on our cheesy meatloaf casserole! The first step is to prepare the meatloaf mixture. This is where all the flavors come together.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese. I like to use my hands for this part; it’s the best way to ensure everything is mixed evenly.
2. Add in the shredded cheddar cheese, milk, ketchup, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Make sure to season generously, as this will enhance the flavor of the meatloaf.
3. Using your hands, mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough. You want it to be moist and tender!

Shaping the Meatloaf

Now that we have our meatloaf mixture ready, it’s time to shape it.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the casserole cooks evenly.
2. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil. This will help prevent sticking.
3. Transfer the meatloaf mixture into the prepared baking dish. Using your hands, shape it into a loaf that fits the dish. It should be about 2 inches high for even cooking.

Cooking the Meatloaf

Now it’s time to cook our meatloaf and let those delicious flavors meld together.

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. This will allow the meatloaf to cook through and develop a nice crust on the outside.
2. After 45 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven. At this point, you’ll want to check the internal temperature of the meatloaf. It should read 160°F (70°C) when fully cooked. If it’s not there yet, return it to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes.
3. While the meatloaf is baking, you can prepare the marinara sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the marinara sauce until it’s heated through. This will be the perfect topping for our casserole.

Assembling the Casserole

Once the meatloaf is cooked, it’s time to assemble our cheesy masterpiece!

1. When the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and carefully pour the warmed marinara sauce over the top. Make sure to cover it evenly.
2. If you’re a cheese lover like me, sprinkle extra shredded cheddar cheese on top of the marinara sauce. This will create a delicious cheesy layer that melts beautifully in the oven.
3. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The aroma will be irresistible!

Serving the Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole

Now that our casserole is ready, it’s time to serve it up!

1. Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. This will help it set and make it easier to slice.
2. Using a sharp knife, cut the meatloaf into squares or slices, depending on

   Conclusion:

   In wrapping up this delightful journey through the Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole recipe, I can confidently say that this dish is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners. The combination of savory meat, gooey cheese, and comforting flavors creates a meal that not only satisfies the taste buds but also warms the heart. It’s the perfect way to bring the family together around the dinner table, and trust me, the leftovers (if there are any!) make for an amazing lunch the next day. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this casserole with a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables to balance out the richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, or even swapping out the ground beef for turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter twist. The beauty of this Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole is its versatility, allowing you to customize it to your liking. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try! I’d love to hear about your experience and any creative twists you put on it. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and photos on social media—let’s spread the love for this comforting dish together! Happy cooking! Print

   Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Dish

   

   Print Recipe

   This Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish featuring ground beef mixed with a blend of cheeses, breadcrumbs, and savory seasonings. Topped with marinara sauce and extra cheese, it’s perfect for family dinners and sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

   • Author: Maria
   • Prep Time: 15 minutes
   • Cook Time: 60 minutes
   • Total Time: 75 minutes
   • Yield: 6 servings 1x

   Ingredients

   Scale 1x2x3x

   • 1 pound ground beef
   • 1 cup breadcrumbs
   • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
   • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
   • 1/2 cup milk
   • 1/4 cup ketchup
   • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
   • 2 cloves garlic, minced
   • 1 large egg
   • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
   • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or mixed herbs)
   • Salt and pepper to taste
   • 1 cup marinara sauce (for topping)
   • Extra shredded cheddar cheese for topping (optional)

   Instructions

   1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese. Use your hands to mix thoroughly.
   2. Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture.
   3. Pour in the milk, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce.
   4. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic.
   5. Crack the egg into the bowl and mix.
   6. Sprinkle in the dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
   7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   8. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or a large casserole dish.
   9. Transfer the meatloaf mixture into the prepared baking dish and shape it into a loaf, about 2 inches high.
   10. Smooth the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
   11. Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes.
   12. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top.
   13. If desired, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese on top.
   14. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
   15. Once done, let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes.
   16. Slice the meatloaf into generous portions, about 1-inch thick.
   17. Serve the meatloaf slices on a plate, drizzling extra marinara sauce over the top if desired.
   18. Pair with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. Garlic bread is a great addition!
   19. Optionally, sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top for garnish.
   20. If you have any leftovers, let the meatloaf cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

   Notes

   • Feel free to customize the cheese or herbs based on your preferences.
   • This dish can be frozen for longer storage; just ensure it’s well-wrapped.