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 traditional 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.

What I love most about Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole is its versatility; it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. The rich flavors and satisfying texture make it a favorite among both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s a convenient one-dish meal that simplifies cleanup while still delivering on taste. Join me as we dive into this scrumptious recipe that is sure to become a staple 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 salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

Let’s start by preparing the meatloaf mixture. This is where all the flavors come together, and it’s super easy!

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 well.
2. Add in the shredded cheddar cheese. This will give our casserole that delicious cheesy flavor that we all love.
3. Next, pour in the milk. This helps to keep the meatloaf moist and tender.
4. Now, add the ketchup, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and dried Italian herbs (if using). Mix everything together until well combined. Don’t overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.

Shaping the Meatloaf

Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to shape it into a loaf.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly.
2. Transfer the meat mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Shape it into a loaf, making sure it’s evenly distributed in the dish. I like to make it a bit taller in the center so it cooks evenly.

Adding the Marinara Sauce

Now, let’s add some marinara sauce to enhance the flavor and keep everything moist.

1. Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will create a delicious layer of flavor and keep the meatloaf from drying out.
2. If you want, you can sprinkle a little extra cheese on top for that gooey, cheesy goodness.

Baking the Casserole

It’s time to bake our cheesy meatloaf casserole!

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour. The internal temperature of the meatloaf should reach 160°F (70°C) when it’s done.
2. Halfway through baking, I like to check on it and baste it with some of the marinara sauce to keep it moist.
3. Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making it easier to slice.

Serving the Casserole

Now comes the best part—serving and enjoying our cheesy meatloaf casserole!

1. Using a sharp knife, slice the meatloaf into generous portions. I usually aim for about 6-8 slices, depending on how hungry everyone is!
2. Serve each slice on a plate, spooning some of the marinara sauce from the baking dish over the top. This adds extra flavor and keeps everything nice and saucy.
3. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. It really elevates the dish!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store them:

1. Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
2. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. It should last for about 3-4

   Conclusion:

   In summary, this Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinner game. The combination of savory meat, gooey cheese, and comforting flavors creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends for a casual get-together, this casserole is sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider pairing it with a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations by adding your favorite vegetables, swapping out the cheese for something more adventurous like pepper jack, or even incorporating different types of ground meat for a unique twist. I encourage you to give this Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole a try and make it your own! Once you’ve whipped it up, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any modifications you made, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s spread the love for this comforting dish together! Happy cooking! Print
   

   Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Dish

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   • Author: Chef kiwi
   • Total Time: 75 minutes
   • Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

   Print Recipe

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   Description

   This Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting dish featuring ground beef, cheeses, and marinara sauce, making it perfect for family dinners. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s a hearty meal that everyone will love!

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   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 salt
   • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
   • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
   • 1 cup marinara sauce
   • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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   Instructions

   1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese. Use your hands to mix well.
   2. Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture.
   3. Pour in the milk to keep the meatloaf moist.
   4. Add ketchup, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and dried Italian herbs (if using). Mix until well combined, but do not overmix.
   5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   6. Transfer the meat mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and shape it into a loaf.
   7. Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Optionally, sprinkle extra cheese on top.
   8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Baste with marinara sauce halfway through baking.
   9. Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
   10. Slice into 6-8 portions, serve with marinara sauce from the baking dish, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

   Notes

   • For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms into the meatloaf mixture.
   • This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.
   • Adjust the seasoning to your taste, especially if you prefer a spicier meatloaf.

   • Prep Time: 15 minutes
   • Cook Time: 60 minutes