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Easy Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole

Close-up of a moist slice of meatloaf casserole topped with melted cheddar cheese and a bright red ketchup glaze.

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Make this easy meatloaf casserole for a satisfying, family-friendly dinner. This recipe combines seasoned ground beef with melted cheese for ultimate comfort food appeal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs ground beef
  • 1 cup bread crumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (for mixing)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce (for topping glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, salt, pepper, parsley, and 1/2 cup of ketchup. Mix these ingredients gently with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
  3. Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This forms your meatloaf base.
  4. Bake the meatloaf base for 25 minutes.
  5. Remove the dish from the oven. Spread the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the partially baked meatloaf.
  6. Spread the remaining 1/2 cup of ketchup or BBQ sauce over the cheese layer.
  7. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit and the topping is bubbly.
  8. Let the meatloaf casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For a loaded potato variation, skip the cheese layer and instead top the meatloaf base with 3 cups of prepared, creamy mashed potatoes before adding the final glaze.
  • You can prepare the meat mixture ahead of time and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
  • Use ground turkey or a mix of beef and pork for a different flavor profile.

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