This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is like a hug in a dish! It’s packed with juicy meat, lots of cheese, and vibrant veggies for a colorful twist.
Trust me, this is a crowd-pleaser! I love how the cheesy goodness melts over the top, and it’s so easy to whip up—perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using a mix of beef and pork for more flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey works great as well! Just be aware that it may be a bit leaner, so adding a little more moisture might help.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs are perfect, but you can also use crushed crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed. For a different twist, try using panko for extra crunch.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella offer a great balance of sharpness and creaminess. If you want to switch it up, try pepper jack for some heat, or even cream cheese for a creamy texture!
Veggies: The mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots is colorful and nutritious. If you don’t have those, feel free to use any veggies you have on hand, like broccoli or spinach, or even frozen mixed veggies.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Blended Meat Loaf Mixture?
The meat mixture is critical to a good meatloaf casserole. To get it just right, make sure not to overmix it, as this can lead to tough meatloaf. Here are some tips:
- Soak the breadcrumbs for a few minutes; this adds moisture.
- Combine ingredients gently; use your hands or a spoon until just mixed.
- Incorporate the veggies when the meat mixture is ready, aiming for even distribution without overworking the meat.
This will help keep your casserole tender and packed with flavor!
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf Base:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Veggies and Cheese:
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
- 1 cup chopped zucchini or squash
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
For the Topping:
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce or marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole will take you about 20 minutes of prep time, followed by 45-55 minutes of baking time. With a total of around 1 hour and 15 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, lightly grease your 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Soak Those Breadcrumbs:
In a large bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes, or until they are softened. This step adds moisture to your meatloaf!
3. Mix the Base:
Now, add the ground beef, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, and season with salt and pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. Mix everything gently until combined, but be careful not to overwork it!
4. Cheese it Up:
Stir in half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly into the mixture for that cheesy goodness.
5. Add the Veggies:
Next, fold in the diced bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots. These veggies will add not only flavor but also color to your casserole!
6. Transfer to the Dish:
Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Press it down evenly to ensure it cooks nicely without falling apart.
7. Sauce it Up:
Spread the tomato or marinara sauce evenly over the top of your meatloaf mixture. This will keep it moist and add flavor.
8. Add More Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top. Because who doesn’t love more cheese?
9. Drizzle with Oil:
Drizzle some olive oil over the cheese layer—this will encourage a beautifully browned top.
10. Bake Away:
Place your casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes. Make sure the meat is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), and the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.
11. Let it Rest:
Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This will make slicing easier!
12. Garnish and Serve:
For an extra touch, garnish with some chopped fresh parsley or green onions if you like. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty, cheesy, and veggie-packed meatloaf casserole!
Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef or pork. Just keep in mind that it might require a bit more moisture, so consider adding an extra tablespoon of milk to keep it juicy.
Is It Possible to Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this meatloaf casserole! After baking, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly and freeze. It should last up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What If I Don’t Have Breadcrumbs?
If you’re out of breadcrumbs, you can substitute them with crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked rice. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the moisture level slightly if using a drier alternative.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can definitely mix it up! Try adding chopped spinach, mushrooms, or even corn. Just be mindful of the moisture content—veggies like zucchini and mushrooms can release a lot of water, so you may want to reduce some other liquid ingredients slightly.
