Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a delicious twist on traditional meatloaf. It combines the flavors of a classic meatloaf with the indulgence of cheese and other tasty toppings. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

For the meatloaf:

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (you can also use a mixture of ground beef and ground pork or ground turkey)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
• 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
• 1/4 cup finely chopped carrots
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For the topping:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, carrots, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, thyme, oregano, and paprika. Mix everything together until well combined.
3. Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. You want it to cover the bottom of the dish.
4. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the meatloaf.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread this mixture over the cheese layer.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. About 10 minutes before the casserole is done, sprinkle the cooked and crumbled bacon on top.
8. Once the meatloaf is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
9. Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
10. Slice and serve your Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables.

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite toppings or ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, diced tomatoes, or green onions. Enjoy your cheesy, flavorful meatloaf casserole!