INTRODUCTION
There’s something incredibly nostalgic about a warm, cheesy meatloaf casserole that takes us back to family dinners and cozy nights in. This dish combines the classic flavors of traditional meatloaf with the gooey goodness of cheese, all smothered in a delightful marinara sauce. Perfect for weeknight meals or weekend gatherings, it’s a dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for comfort food during chilly evenings or a simple, hearty recipe to impress your guests, this cheesy meatloaf casserole delivers every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cheesy meatloaf casserole is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to whip up a delicious meal without too much fuss. It’s quick to make, budget-friendly, and packs in those cozy flavors we all crave. What’s more, it’s highly adaptable and perfect for feeding a crowd.
"This dish brought the family together around the table like nothing else could! My kids couldn’t get enough of the cheesy goodness!"
How to Make Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole
Making this casserole is a breeze! You’ll mix common pantry ingredients into a hearty meatloaf, shape it, bake it, and finish it off with a rich marinara sauce. It’s that simple and satisfying! Gather the following ingredients to get started on this delicious meal.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup marinara sauce
If you’re looking for substitutions, ground turkey or pork can work well in place of beef, and oatmeal can be used instead of breadcrumbs for a healthier twist.
Directions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, grated cheese, milk, egg, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish.
- Pour the marinara sauce generously over the meatloaf.
- Bake it in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the cheese is bubbling beautifully.
- Once out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance your meal, consider pairing your cheesy meatloaf casserole with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a burst of color and crunch. Creamy mashed potatoes are always a hit, or you could opt for buttery corn on the side. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top can also elevate the dish in both flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
To store your cheesy meatloaf casserole, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container in the fridge where it will last up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices or the entire loaf. Just make sure to wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Pro Tips
For the best results, don’t overmix your meatloaf mixture; a gentle fold will keep it tender. Additionally, feel free to add spices or herbs like Italian seasoning or chopped parsley for extra flavor. If you want even more cheesy goodness, top it off with a bit of cheese in the last few minutes of baking.
Variations
Get creative with your cheesy meatloaf casserole! You can experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for added flavor. Adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms can give it a delightful twist as well. For a slightly spicy version, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it the night before, covering it and storing it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.
What’s the best way to tell if the meatloaf is done?
Using a meat thermometer, you want your meatloaf to reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Can I use a different sauce instead of marinara?
Yes, you can try barbecue sauce for a sweet twist or a creamy mushroom sauce for a rich flavor.
- comforting family meals
- easy weeknight dinners
Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
A nostalgic and comforting cheesy meatloaf casserole, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, grated cheese, milk, egg, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish.
- Pour the marinara sauce generously over the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until cooked through and the cheese is bubbling.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For best results, don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture. You can add Italian seasoning or parsley for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg