This hearty Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a winner for family dinners! Packed with ground meat, gooey cheese, and colorful veggies, it’s a true comfort dish.
Who doesn’t love a meal that looks like a party on a plate? I always sneak in extra veggies for a boost—shh, don’t tell the kids! It’s a cozy meal that’s simple to make.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using a blend of beef and pork for flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well, too. Just keep in mind that turkey can be drier, so adding a bit more moisture may be helpful.
Veggies: The mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms adds great texture and nutrition. You can swap zucchini with squash or even add some spinach or kale. Use whatever veggies you have on hand to make it your own!
Cheeses: Cheddar and mozzarella create a lovely combo for creaminess. If you prefer a stronger flavor, try adding some crumbled blue cheese or feta. Vegan cheese can also work if you’re keeping things plant-based.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatloaf together. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed oats as a substitute. I often sneak in some ground flaxseed for extra nutrition!
How Can You Ensure Your Meatloaf Casserole is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking meatloaf in a casserole dish can make it tricky to know when it’s done. Here’s how you can ensure it comes out perfectly every time:
- Check the Temperature: The best way to know if your meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Let It Rest: After baking, letting it sit for about 10 minutes helps the juices settle, making it easier to cut and serve.
- Visual Cues: Look for browned edges and cheese that’s bubbling nicely. This indicates the casserole is fully cooked.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the meat and other ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser meatloaf.
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1½ pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), diced
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cooked corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra to drizzle)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs or oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 15 minutes for prep time and around 45-50 minutes to bake. With a little wait time for resting at the end, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about an hour and a half!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté Your Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook them until they’re soft and fragrant. This will take about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Veggies:
Next, add the diced bell peppers, zucchini, and chopped mushrooms to the skillet. Cook these colorful veggies for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re nice and tender. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside.
4. Mix the Meat Mixture:
In a big bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian herbs, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently until it’s just combined. Don’t overdo it!
5. Combine Everything:
Folding carefully, add the sautéed veggies, corn kernels, and shredded cheddar cheese into the meat mixture. Ensure everything is well combined without mashing.
6. Fill the Casserole Dish:
Transfer your colorful mixture into the prepared casserole dish, pressing it down evenly so it holds together. This step is important for a good bake!
7. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the entire top of your casserole. If you like, drizzle a little extra ketchup on top to add flavor and a nice finish.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the casserole into the preheated oven and bake it uncovered for about 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
9. Rest and Garnish:
Once fully cooked, take the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to cut.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley to brighten things up. Serve it warm and enjoy this cheesy, veggie-packed delight with your family!
This casserole will surely please everyone at the table, melding together savory meat, gooey cheese, and vibrant veggies for a perfect dinner treat!
FAQs about Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with Veggies
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. Just be aware that it can be drier, so consider adding a bit more milk or a dash of olive oil to keep it moist.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground meat with a mix of lentils or beans and add some extra veggies. You might want to also use egg substitutes or flaxseed meal to hold everything together.
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
You can! Assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be colder from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven at a low temperature until heated through. It’s delicious even the next day!