When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the hearty, satisfying goodness of meatloaf. It’s a timeless classic that conjures up memories of family dinners and the comforting embrace of home-cooked meals. But what if we told you there’s a way to take this beloved classic to a whole new level of deliciousness? Enter the Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole – a mouthwatering twist on the traditional meatloaf that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. In this blog post, we’ll take you through the steps to create this cheesy, flavorful masterpiece. But first, let’s talk about the star players – the ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

For the Topping:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup crispy bacon bits
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, 1/4 cup ketchup, eggs, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. Mix everything together until well combined.
2. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish and shape it into a loaf.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
2. Pour the glaze over the meatloaf, spreading it evenly.

Step 3: Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Toppings

1. After 45 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crispy bacon bits on top.
2. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness.
2. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Perfection

• Choose Quality Ground Beef: Opt for ground beef with a higher fat content (around 80/20) for a juicier meatloaf.
• Let It Rest: Allowing your meatloaf to rest for a few minutes before slicing helps retain its juices, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish.
• Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to get creative with your cheese selection. Gouda, mozzarella, or even blue cheese can add a unique twist.
• Make it Your Own: Add diced vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.

Variation: BBQ Bacon Bliss

Looking to take your Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole to the next level? Try this BBQ Bacon Bliss variation:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup barbecue sauce (use your favorite)
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup crispy fried onions
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions:

1. After spreading the glaze, drizzle barbecue sauce over the meatloaf.
2. Sprinkle Monterey Jack cheese on top, followed by crispy fried onions.
3. Bake as directed, and when it’s done, garnish with chopped cilantro for a fresh, zesty kick.

In the world of comfort food, the Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole reigns supreme. With its rich, savory flavors and the irresistible combination of cheese and bacon, it’s a dish that’s sure to please the entire family. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or venture into the world of BBQ Bacon Bliss, this casserole will warm your heart and fill your belly with joy. So, next time you’re craving a taste of home, give this recipe a try, and let the cheesy, meaty goodness embrace your taste buds in a comforting hug. Enjoy!