If you’re craving that perfect blend of comfort food brilliance and cheesy indulgence, this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe is your new go-to. It takes the classic meatloaf to another level by layering rich Italian sausage with ground beef, infusing it with savory herbs, and packing it full of melty cheddar and mozzarella. Each bite delivers a hearty, ooey-gooey explosion of flavor and texture that’s bound to become a family favorite. This casserole is a cozy, satisfying dish that wraps up all the best parts of meatloaf into an effortlessly delicious meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe lies in how simple, pantry-friendly ingredients come together to create a dish bursting with savory, cheesy goodness. Each component is chosen not just for flavor but also for texture and balance, making every bite memorable.
- Ground beef (1 pound): Provides a juicy, flavorful base with just the right amount of fat.
- Italian sausage (1/2 pound): Adds a spiced, herbaceous kick that elevates the flavor profile.
- Medium onion, diced (1): Gives sweetness and a tender crunch for balance.
- Breadcrumbs (1 cup): Help bind the meat and keep the texture moist and soft.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Moistens the breadcrumbs so the casserole stays tender.
- Eggs (2 large): Act as a natural binder, keeping everything together perfectly.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses a subtle savory depth that’s essential for hearty dishes.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances the onion flavor throughout the casserole.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Brings an herby, slightly peppery touch to the mix.
- Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Offers a mild sweetness and vibrant aroma.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances and brightens all the flavors.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just enough heat to wake up the palate.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into gooey pockets, tangy and rich.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup): Creates stretchy, creamy layers that everyone loves.
- Ketchup (1/2 cup): Provides sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully.
- Brown sugar (2 tablespoons): Sweetens the topping to balance savory notes.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds a complex umami flavor that deepens the taste.
How to Make Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by setting your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). This ensures it reaches the perfect temperature for slow cooking your comforting casserole to juicy, cheesy perfection.
Step 2: Combine the Meats
In a large bowl, mix your ground beef and Italian sausage together by hand or with a spoon. This pairing creates a rich, flavorful base with balanced fat and spices that promise a juicy end result.
Step 3: Add the Onion
Fold in the diced onion so it’s evenly distributed. The onion adds subtle sweetness and texture, giving you little bursts of flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture
Whisk together breadcrumbs and milk in a small bowl until the breadcrumbs soak up the milk and become slightly thickened. This mix keeps the casserole moist and tender.
Step 5: Blend the Breadcrumbs into the Meat
Gently stir the breadcrumb mixture into the meat blend. This step ensures the consistency holds together without becoming dense or heavy.
Step 6: Add Eggs
Crack in the eggs and mix thoroughly to bind the meat and breadcrumbs. Eggs are the secret glue that holds everything perfectly.
Step 7: Season Generously
Incorporate garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. These spices infuse a rich, layered flavor that carries the dish from ordinary to unforgettable.
Step 8: Fold in the Cheeses
Carefully mix in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. The two cheeses provide gooey, melty pockets that make each slice irresistibly cheesy.
Step 9: Transfer to Casserole Dish
Spread the meat mixture evenly into a lightly greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, smoothing the top to prepare for the flavorful topping.
Step 10: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, combine ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until the sugar dissolves into a sweet and tangy glaze.
Step 11: Apply the Glaze
Pour the ketchup mixture over the meatloaf, spreading it thoroughly with a spoon. This topping will caramelize in the oven, adding shiny sweetness and kick.
Step 12: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole for 45 to 55 minutes, until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degrees Celsius). The aroma filling your kitchen will be downright irresistible.
Step 13: Rest Before Serving
Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows flavors to settle and makes slicing smoother, revealing those gooey cheese layers inside.
How to Serve Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top for a burst of color and a fresh, mild bite that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the casserole. A dollop of sour cream can also add a cool creaminess.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with bright, crisp sides like a simple green salad or steamed broccoli to balance the hearty, cheesy goodness. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery garlic bread also complement the casserole perfectly for those craving extra comfort.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve it in individual ramekins for a personal touch at dinner parties, or layer the casserole over rice or pasta to turn it into a one-pan meal with extra heft. Leftover slices can be turned into loaded sandwiches for a fun twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any extra Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It stays moist and flavorful, making for convenient next-day meals with zero effort.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Simply wrap it tightly with foil or place in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through (about 20 minutes), or microwave individual portions for a quick, cheesy fix. To keep the topping crisp, reheating in the oven is best.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in the Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with gouda, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist. Just choose cheeses that melt well for the best texture.
Is it necessary to use both ground beef and Italian sausage?
Using both meats gives the casserole a richer flavor and juicier texture, but you can substitute with just one type if preferred. Ground beef alone works perfectly too.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs, and double-check that your Worcestershire sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free, and you’re good to go.
How do I know when the meatloaf casserole is fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer—160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degrees Celsius) in the center means it’s perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time before baking?
Definitely. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe is the ultimate hug-in-a-dish that combines comfort, simplicity, and rich flavor all in one plate. Whether you’re cooking for family or gathering friends, it promises to deliver smiles and full bellies every time. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this cheesy, meaty delight and watch it quickly become a dinner table staple.
Print
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 1h 0m
- Total Time: 1h 15m
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that features a flavorful blend of ground beef and Italian sausage mixed with savory spices and two types of cheese. Topped with a tangy ketchup glaze sweetened with brown sugar and enriched with Worcestershire sauce, this casserole is baked to perfection, resulting in a juicy, cheesy, and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, diced
Binding Ingredients
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Topping Sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Mix Meats: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and Italian sausage. Use your hands or a spoon to mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Add Onion: Stir the diced onion into the meat mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- Prepare Breadcrumbs: In a separate bowl, whisk together the breadcrumbs and milk until the breadcrumbs soak up the milk and form a slightly thickened mixture.
- Combine Breadcrumbs and Meat: Add the breadcrumb mixture to the meat and stir gently to combine without overmixing.
- Add Eggs: Crack the eggs into the meat mixture and mix until the eggs are fully incorporated and the mixture is uniform.
- Season: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper, ensuring all spices are evenly mixed through the meat.
- Fold in Cheeses: Gently fold the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses into the meat mixture, taking care not to overwork it.
- Transfer to Casserole Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish, then spread the meat mixture evenly in the dish.
- Make Topping Sauce: In a small bowl, combine ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until the brown sugar dissolves and the sauce is smooth.
- Apply Topping Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the meatloaf and spread it out to cover the entire surface.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and let the meatloaf rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing into portions and serving.
Notes
- Ensure the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C) to guarantee it is safely cooked.
- Letting the meatloaf rest after baking helps retain juices and makes it easier to slice.
- You can substitute Italian sausage with all ground beef if preferred.
- Feel free to add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture for extra flavor and texture.
- For a lower fat version, use lean ground beef and reduce or omit the mozzarella cheese.
