Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with Veggies

Category: Dinner Recipes

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a cozy dish packed with ground beef, cheese, and colorful veggies. It’s a delightful one-pan meal that everyone loves!

I often find myself sneaking in extra veggies just to feel a bit healthier, but let’s be real—it’s all about that cheesy goodness! 😊 Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Beef: I prefer using 80% lean beef for a good balance of flavor and fat. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner option, but it may turn out dryer, so watch the cooking time.

Vegetables: Onions and bell peppers are must-haves for flavor. You can get creative with zucchini or mushrooms depending on what you like or have on hand. Carrots or spinach can also work well!

Ketchup: This adds tanginess and moisture. If you’re not a fan, try BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor or tomato sauce for a less sweet option.

Cheese: Mozzarella gives the gooey texture I love, but cheddar or even pepper jack can spice things up. Don’t hesitate to mix and match cheeses to suit your taste!

Breadcrumbs: I find regular breadcrumbs work best, but you can use panko for an extra crunchy topping, or even crushed crackers if that’s what you have.

How Can I Ensure My Meatloaf Casserole is Juicy and Not Dry?

The key to a juicy meatloaf is careful mixing and the right balance of ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture, so gently combine your meat and veggies. The milk and eggs help keep it moist as well.

  • Let the breadcrumbs soak in milk for about 5 minutes before mixing with the meat. This helps keep everything from being too dry.
  • If using lean ground beef, consider adding a bit of olive oil or more cheese to help with moisture.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check doneness—aim for 160°F (71°C). This ensures it’s cooked through but not overly dry.

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with Veggies

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with Veggies

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Meat Mixture:

  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80% lean)
  • 1 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 cup finely chopped bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
  • 1 cup finely chopped zucchini or mushrooms (optional)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried oregano

For the Cheese Topping:

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or your preferred cheese blend)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Veggies:

  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn), thawed
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or green onions (optional, for garnish)

Other:

  • Cooking spray or 1 tablespoon olive oil

How Much Time Will You Need?

Prepare your Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole in about 15 minutes, with a baking time of 50-55 minutes. Plus, a resting time of 5-10 minutes before serving. Overall, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready in less than 1.5 hours!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, grab a 9×13-inch casserole dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with 1/2 cup of milk and let them soak for about 5 minutes. This helps to keep the meatloaf moist and tender. After soaking, add the ground beef, chopped onions, bell peppers, optional zucchini or mushrooms, thawed mixed vegetables, minced garlic, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything well but be careful not to overmix it. We want a tender meatloaf, not a tough one!

3. Layering the Casserole:

Spread half of the meat mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish. After that, sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over this first layer. Next, gently spread the remaining meat mixture over the cheese and press it down lightly to flatten it out.

4. Topping It Off:

Now, top the casserole evenly with the remaining mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese. This cheesy layer will make it so delicious!

5. Baking the Casserole:

Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake it in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

6. Rest and Serve:

Once done, take the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps it to set up a bit. Before serving, you can garnish it with fresh parsley or green onions, if you like. Then, enjoy your cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole with a side of your choice!

This dish is sure to satisfy you and your family, combining classic meatloaf flavors with melty cheese and a rainbow of veggies. Enjoy every bite!

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with Veggies

FAQ for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with Veggies

Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option! Keep in mind that these meats are generally drier, so consider adding a little extra moisture, like a splash more of milk or an additional egg, to ensure the casserole remains juicy.

How Can I Prep This Dish in Advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture and layer it in the casserole dish up to a day in advance. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if using it cold from the fridge.

What Should I Do with Leftover Casserole?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or in the microwave until heated through. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months; just thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Can I Modify the Vegetables in This Casserole?

Of course! This casserole is very versatile. Feel free to use any vegetables you like or have on hand. Spinach, broccoli, or even kale would be great additions. Just be sure to finely chop any veggies so they mix well with the meat!

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