There’s just something about a hearty dinner that brings the whole family together, and I can’t wait to share my secret for the *best* loaded meatloaf casserole! Trust me, when I say this easy loaded meatloaf casserole is a family favorite dinner, it’s because it’s so packed with flavor and comfort. Picture this: tender ground beef mixed with crunchy veggies and gooey cheese all baked to perfection. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! I love how simple it is to whip up, yet it always impresses. Seriously, no more dry, boring meatloaf here! Your family will be begging for seconds, and you’ll love how effortless it is to make. Get ready to dive into a dish that feels like home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s super easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavor-packed with a delightful blend of beef, veggies, and cheese.
- Your family will be thrilled with every bite—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
- One dish means minimal cleanup—yay for less time in the kitchen!
- It’s versatile; you can customize it with your favorite ingredients.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, making it great for meal prep!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious loaded meatloaf casserole. Make sure to gather everything before you start for a smooth cooking experience!
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (I love using cheddar for that melty goodness!)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup ketchup (for that sweet and tangy kick)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
Feel free to switch up the cheese or add in some spices if you like a little extra flavor! This recipe is all about making it your own.
How to Prepare Instructions
Let’s get cooking! First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial because we want our casserole to bake evenly. Now, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, shredded cheese, eggs, ketchup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. I like to use my hands for this—it’s the best way to really mix everything together and feel the texture. Just make sure your hands are clean!
Once everything is well combined, transfer your mixture into a greased casserole dish. I usually use a 9×13 inch dish, but whatever you have works! Spread it out evenly; this helps it cook through nicely. Now, pop that beauty into the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the meatloaf is cooked through and the edges are nicely browned. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving—this helps all those delicious juices settle. Trust me, your family is going to love this comforting dish!
Tips for Success
To ensure your loaded meatloaf casserole turns out perfectly, here are some of my favorite tips! First, don’t overmix the meat mixture; just combine until everything is incorporated, as overmixing can lead to a dense texture. If you want a little extra flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or some chopped garlic. Also, let it rest for a few minutes after baking—it helps the flavors meld and makes serving easier. And remember, every oven is a bit different, so keep an eye on it towards the end of baking! Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about this loaded meatloaf casserole is how easy it is to customize! If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for an extra dose of veggies. You could also swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option—still delicious! Want to kick up the flavor? Add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness. And for cheese lovers, mix in some mozzarella or pepper jack for a different melty experience! Honestly, the sky’s the limit, so feel free to experiment and make this dish your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), let the casserole cool completely before storing. I recommend transferring it to an airtight container to keep all that deliciousness in. It’ll last in the fridge for about 3-4 days, so you can enjoy it again soon!
When you’re ready to reheat, just pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through—about 20-25 minutes should do the trick. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but I find that reheating in the oven keeps the texture just right. Enjoy those comforting vibes all over again!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional data for each slice of this loaded meatloaf casserole. You’ll find it’s about 350 calories per serving, with 20g of fat and 25g of protein, making it a hearty choice! It also has around 15g of carbohydrates and 3g of sugar. Remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoy this delicious meal without the guilt!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just assemble and bake it when you’re ready to serve. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights!
What can I serve with this casserole?
This loaded meatloaf casserole pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or steamed veggies. You can even serve it with some warm bread for mopping up those tasty juices!
How do I know when it’s done?
You’ll know your casserole is ready when it’s cooked through and the top is golden brown. A meat thermometer should read 160°F (70°C) for ground beef. It’s always a good idea to double-check!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Definitely! Just make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. It’ll keep well in the freezer for about 2-3 months. Reheat it in the oven for the best texture!
Try This Easy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole for Family Joy
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Try this easy loaded meatloaf casserole for a family favorite dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, bell pepper, cheese, eggs, ketchup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until cooked through.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add Worcestershire sauce.
- Top with additional cheese before baking if desired.
- Serve with mashed potatoes or a side salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: meatloaf casserole, easy dinner, family recipe, loaded meatloaf
