This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole combines tender meatloaf, gooey cheese, and colorful veggies all in one dish. It’s packed full of flavor and super comforting!
I love how easy this meal is—just mix, layer, and bake! It makes great leftovers, too. Plus, who wouldn’t want extra cheese? It’s a win for sure! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the backbone of the casserole. If you prefer leaner meat, try using ground turkey or chicken. They’ll lend a different flavor but still make a great base!
Ground Pork: While optional, ground pork adds moisture and richness. If you want to avoid pork, just use extra beef or try ground lamb for something different.
Veggies: Bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms bring color and taste. You can swap out zucchini for carrots or broccoli. Frozen veggies also work if fresh ones aren’t available!
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella offer melty goodness. If you’re feeling adventurous, use pepper jack for a spicy kick. Vegan cheese is a good alternative for a dairy-free option.
Breadcrumbs: These give structure. You can use crushed crackers or even oats if you’re looking for gluten-free options. Just remember, the texture might change slightly!
What’s the Best Way to Mix Meatloaf without Overworking It?
Mixing the meatloaf evenly ensures a great texture. Here’s how to do it without compacting the meat:
- Start by gently combining the meat with the cooked veggies in a bowl.
- Add the breadcrumbs and other wet ingredients like milk and eggs.
- Use your hands or a fork to fold everything together. Avoid kneading—just mix until everything is combined.
This gentle mixing helps keep the meatloaf tender and not too dense. Enjoy making your casserole with these tips!
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork (optional for added flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (mix of red, green, and yellow)
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
For the Cheese Layer:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Binding:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Sautéing:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Time Needed:
This delightful casserole takes about 15-20 minutes to prep and around 1 hour to cook, with an additional 10 minutes of resting time. So, in total, you’ll need about 1 hour and 25 minutes before you’re ready to serve this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) casserole dish lightly with cooking spray or a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, cooking until they soften and become fragrant (about 3 minutes). Next, toss in the diced bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Sauté for another 5 minutes until the veggies are tender. Once done, remove from heat and let them cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork (if you’re using it). Add the sautéed veggies along with breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together, being careful not to compact the meat too much. A light touch is key!
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Spread half of the meat mixture evenly in the casserole dish. Then, sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top. Layer the remaining meat mixture over this, pressing gently for an even top layer.
5. Add Ketchup and Cheese:
Pour 1/2 cup of ketchup evenly over the top layer of meat. After that, sprinkle the remaining cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese over the ketchup.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the casserole dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the meat is cooked through (check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F or 71°C).
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done baking, let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for that extra touch. Enjoy your cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole warm! It’s perfect paired with a fresh salad or some steamed veggies 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. Just keep in mind that it might produce a slightly different texture and flavor, but it will still be delicious!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
You can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes instead of regular breadcrumbs. Just double-check the labels on your Worcestershire sauce and ketchup to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute or Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can substitute zucchini with carrots, spinach, or broccoli. Just make sure to adjust cooking times slightly as needed for different vegetables.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, just warm them in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist!
