Description
This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with Vegetables is a comforting, hearty dish combining seasoned ground beef with a vegetable medley, topped with creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheddar cheese. Baked to golden perfection, it delivers a flavorful and satisfying meal all in one casserole dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
Vegetables and Toppings
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Prepare Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, and egg. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix everything thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Add Vegetables to Meat Mixture: Stir in the finely chopped onion and chopped bell pepper to the meat mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout.
- Assemble Meat Layer: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish, then press the meat mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the dish to form a solid base layer.
- Add Mashed Potato Layer: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the pressed meat, smoothing the surface for a uniform layer.
- Top with Mixed Vegetables: Sprinkle the frozen mixed vegetables evenly over the mashed potatoes to add texture and color.
- Cheese Layer: Cover the entire dish with shredded cheddar cheese, distributing it evenly to ensure a cheesy topping.
- Add Ketchup Drizzle: Drizzle ketchup across the top of the cheese to add a tangy sweetness that complements the flavors.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the meat is fully cooked and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to settle and ease slicing.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the casserole before serving for a fresh herbal note and attractive presentation.
Notes
- Use freshly made or store-bought mashed potatoes based on convenience.
- Make sure to fully cook the meatloaf to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety.
- Feel free to swap cheddar cheese with any preferred cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven.
