Description
This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish packed with ground beef, a blend of cheeses, savory bacon crumbles, and fresh green onions. Baked to perfection with a crispy cheese topping, it’s an easy and delicious meal that combines classic meatloaf flavors with a cheesy twist.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheeses and Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon crumbles
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the meatloaf casserole.
- Combine Meat and Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and milk, mixing them well to create the base mixture for the meatloaf.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is evenly seasoned.
- Add Cheeses and Bacon: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup of mozzarella cheese, bacon crumbles, and chopped green onions to the meat mixture for extra flavor and texture.
- Mix Gently: Gently fold all the ingredients together, being careful not to overwork the meat to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Shape and Transfer: Transfer the meat mixture to a 9×13-inch casserole dish and press it down evenly to form a loaf shape.
- Add Cheese Topping: Top the meatloaf with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese to create a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making slices neat and moist.
- Serve: Slice the meatloaf casserole and serve warm for a delicious, cheesy meal experience.
Notes
- Ensure the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
- Using fresh breadcrumbs will yield a softer texture, while dry breadcrumbs give a firmer loaf.
- Feel free to substitute bacon crumbles with cooked pancetta or omit for a milder flavor.
- Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps prevent it from falling apart.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking to save time.
