This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a tasty dish packed with meat, veggies, and plenty of gooey cheese. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for family dinners!
The best part? You can sneak in some veggies, and no one will even notice! I love serving it with a side salad for that extra crunch. Trust me, this meal will have everyone coming back for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the base of your meatloaf. If you want a leaner option, substituting with ground turkey works well while still keeping flavor. I often mix it with beef for a heartier taste.
Ground Pork: The pork adds a nice flavor and moisture to the dish but is optional. If you’re looking for a meat-free option, try using chopped mushrooms or lentils for a great texture.
Mixed Vegetables: You can use fresh or frozen. I love incorporating spinach or zucchini. If you need a low-carb option, riced cauliflower is a great substitute.
Cheddar & Mozzarella Cheese: Cheddar gives a rich flavor, while mozzarella provides that stretchy quality. Swap cheddar for pepper jack if you like spice, or use any melty cheese you enjoy!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Texture in Meatloaf?
Getting the right texture in your meatloaf casserole is essential. Here are my tips:
- Don’t overmix the meat: Combine just until everything is mixed. Overmixing can make it tough.
- Use breadcrumbs soaked in milk: This helps keep the meatloaf moist and tender.
- Layer wisely: Spreading the meat evenly and layering cheese helps maintain a good structure.
Also, let the casserole rest before serving! This helps it hold together better when you slice it.
How to Make 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 extra flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as diced carrots, peas, corn, and bell peppers)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter for cooking vegetables
For the Topping:
- 1 cup cooked mashed potatoes or instant mashed potato flakes
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 35-45 minutes to bake, giving you plenty of time to relax while it cooks. Plus, let it rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to make slicing easier. So, all in all, you’ll need about 1 hour for this comforting dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9 inch (or similar size) casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until they become translucent, around 3-4 minutes. Then, throw in your mixed vegetables and sauté them for another 4-5 minutes until they’re tender. Once done, take the skillet off the heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and, if you’re using it, ground pork. Add the sautéed veggies, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently until it’s just combined—overworking the mixture can make the meat tough!
4. Build the Layers:
Spread half of the meat mixture evenly into your greased casserole dish. Then, layer half of the shredded cheddar cheese and all the mozzarella cheese over this meat layer. Next, spread the remaining meat mixture on top, pressing gently to form an even layer.
5. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
If you’re using instant mashed potato flakes, prepare them according to the package directions. If you have cooked mashed potatoes, mix them with the milk until creamy, then spread this mixture evenly over the top meat layer.
6. Top It Off:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes, then drizzle some ketchup over everything for a nice glaze.
7. Bake Away:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and the top is golden and bubbly.
8. Let It Rest:
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps everything set nicely, making it easier to serve.
Dig in and enjoy your delicious, cheesy, veggie-packed meatloaf casserole! It’s a meal that everyone will love! 😊
FAQ: Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with Veggies
Can I Use Turkey or Chicken Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that they may be less flavorful than beef, so consider adding extra seasonings or herbs if you go this route.
What If I Don’t Have Mixed Vegetables?
No problem! You can use any vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Fresh, frozen, or even canned veggies will work as long as they’re chopped and cooked slightly before adding them to the meat mixture.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, this casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if you’re cooking it straight from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it up in the oven until heated through. Enjoy it again for another delicious meal!
