Ingredients

Try This Easy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole for a Family Favorite Dinner

I remember the first time I made loaded meatloaf casserole for my family. It was a huge hit! The mix of ground beef, mashed potatoes, and cheese is perfect together. This recipe is easy with 14 ingredients, great for busy families.

It serves 6 people and takes only 10 minutes to prepare. The cooking time is 40 minutes.

This casserole is perfect for family dinners. It’s made in a 9×13 inch pan and has a tasty mashed potato topping. The recipe uses 2 pounds of ground beef, making it hearty and satisfying.

Whether you want a classic meatloaf casserole or something loaded, this recipe will be a hit with your family.

Why This Meatloaf Casserole Will Become Your Go-To Dinner

This meatloaf casserole is great for family dinners. It’s easy to make and won’t break the bank. Ground beef makes it affordable, and it cooks in under an hour. This is perfect for busy weeknights.

This casserole is a hit because it’s tasty and cheap. It combines ground beef, mashed potatoes, and cheese. Kids love it, and it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Here are some benefits:

  • Easy to prepare and cook
  • Affordable ingredients, making it a cheap dinner option
  • Can be served as a one-dish meal, reducing cleanup time

This meatloaf casserole is a family favorite. It’s budget-friendly, quick to make, and kids love it. If you’re looking for beef casserole recipes or a simple dinner with ground beef, this is a great choice.

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Loaded Meatloaf

To make a delicious loaded meatloaf, you’ll need some key ingredients. Ground beef is the base, and crushed crackers help it stick together. Diced onion and garlic powder add flavor. An egg and milk keep it moist. Ketchup and Worcestershire sauce give it a tangy taste. This loaded meatloaf is an easy beef recipe to make.

Here are the ingredients you’ll need:

  • 1.5 pounds lean ground beef or turkey
  • 0.5 cup chopped white onion
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 0.33 cup cottage cheese

These ingredients will help you make a tasty loaded meatloaf. It’s perfect for a family dinner. With these easy casserole recipes, you can’t go wrong.

IngredientQuantity
Ground Beef1.5 pounds
Chopped Onion0.5 cup
Minced Garlic1 tablespoon
Seasoned Bread Crumbs1 cup

With these ingredients, you’ll make a delicious loaded meatloaf. It’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So why not try it and see how easy it is to make a tasty beef recipe?

Kitchen Tools and Equipment You’ll Need

To make a tasty loaded meatloaf casserole, you’ll need some key kitchen tools. For beef recipes for dinner, the right tools make a big difference. A 9×13 inch rectangular baking dish is best for this recipe. It’s the right size and shape for the casserole.

You’ll also need basic utensils like a large mixing bowl, wooden spoon, and cheese grater. These help you mix the ingredients and prepare the meatloaf. For even better results, consider using a kitchen scale or meat thermometer. They help ensure your meatloaf is perfectly cooked.

For easy casserole recipes like this, a 9×13 inch dish is ideal. It cooks the casserole evenly and makes serving a crowd easy.

Essential Utensils

Here are the must-have utensils for this loaded meatloaf casserole:

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cheese grater

Optional Equipment

For extra precision, consider using a kitchen scale or meat thermometer. These tools help you achieve perfect results every time.

EquipmentDescription
Kitchen scaleHelps you measure ingredients accurately
Meat thermometerEnsures your meatloaf is cooked to a safe internal temperature

Preparing Your Meatloaf Mixture

To make a delicious loaded meatloaf casserole, start with a good meatloaf mix. Mix ground beef, crushed crackers, diced onion, garlic powder, egg, milk, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce in a big bowl.

It’s important to mix the ingredients just until they’re combined. Don’t overmix. This makes the loaded meatloaf tender and juicy, not dry.

Here’s what you need for the mix:
* 1.5 lbs ground beef (50% beef and 50% pork mix)
* ½ cup finely chopped yellow onion
* ⅔ cup seasoned dry breadcrumbs
* ⅓ cup whole milk
* 1 large egg
* ¼ cup ketchup
* 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste

Just mix all the ingredients in a big bowl until just combined. Then, shape it into a loaf and get ready to bake.

Follow these steps to make a tasty loaded meatloaf casserole that everyone will love.

IngredientQuantity
Ground Beef1.5 lbs
Chopped Onion½ cup
Seasoned Dry Breadcrumbs⅔ cup
Whole Milk⅓ cup
Large Egg1
Ketchup¼ cup
Grated Parmesan Cheese1 cup

Loading Your Casserole with Delicious Toppings

Beef casserole recipes shine with the right toppings. For a tasty dinner, try shredded cheese, diced veggies, and a tangy sauce. Cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan are great cheese choices.

It’s important to mix flavors and textures. Add diced bell peppers, chopped onions, or mushrooms for crunch. Use ketchup, Worcestershire, or BBQ sauce for a tangy taste.

Cheese Options

  • Cheddar: A classic choice for beef casserole recipes, cheddar adds a rich and creamy flavor.
  • Mozzarella: This mild and melty cheese is perfect for adding a smooth texture to your casserole.
  • Parmesan: With its nutty and slightly sweet flavor, parmesan is a great addition to any dinner with ground beef.

Vegetable Add-ins

Diced bell peppers, chopped onions, and mushrooms are great for beef casserole. They add crunch and flavor, making it a complete meal.

VegetableQuantity
Diced Bell Peppers1 cup
Chopped Onions1/2 cup
Mushrooms1/2 cup

With these toppings, your casserole will be a hit. It’s a delicious dinner that everyone will love. So, get creative and enjoy a great meal with your family.

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

To make a delicious loaded meatloaf casserole, follow these simple steps. First, preheat your oven to 350°F. This is the perfect temperature for baking beef recipes for dinner. While the oven heats up, prepare your meatloaf mixture and place it in a baking dish.

Next, bake the meatloaf mixture for 25-30 minutes. It should be partially cooked by then. Then, top it with mashed potatoes and cheese. Return it to the oven for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Here are the key steps to follow:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  2. Bake the meatloaf mixture for 25-30 minutes.
  3. Top the meatloaf with mashed potatoes and cheese.
  4. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes.

Some important statistics to keep in mind when making this recipe include:

Prep TimeCook TimeTotal TimeServings
15 minutes30 minutes45 minutes6

By following these steps and using the right ingredients, you can create a delicious loaded meatloaf casserole. It’s perfect for beef recipes for dinner. This is one of the easy casserole recipes I highly recommend, and I’m sure you’ll love it too.

loaded meatloaf casserole

Tips for the Best Results Every Time

When making a loaded meatloaf casserole, several tips can help you get the best results. Keeping the meatloaf’s internal temperature at 160°F is key for safety. Always use a meat thermometer to check this.

Moisture is also important. Use ground beef with at least 15% fat and add milk and breadcrumbs. This keeps the meatloaf moist and prevents it from drying out. For an easy beef recipes easy option, try a pre-made meatloaf mix and add your favorite ingredients.

Here are some more tips for a delicious loaded meatloaf casserole:

  • Use a large baking dish or sheet pan for better caramelization.
  • Avoid overmixing the meat to prevent a dry meatloaf.
  • Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices spread evenly.

By following these tips and using a reliable recipe, you can make a tasty loaded meatloaf casserole. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special event. This dish is sure to impress everyone.

Meatloaf SizeCooking TimeInternal Temperature
1 lb35-45 minutes160°F
2 lb60-80 minutes160°F
3 lb90-120 minutes160°F

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Storing and reheating beef casserole recipes safely is key. The USDA says to refrigerate or freeze to stop bacteria growth. This keeps your dinner with ground beef fresh and safe.

To reheat, use the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Then, reheat for 20-30 minutes until it’s 165°F (74°C) inside. The microwave works with 50-70% power, starting with 1-2 minute intervals. You can also use an air fryer for 5-10 minutes.

Here are some reheating tips:

  • Use aluminum foil or a damp paper towel to trap moisture and prevent drying out.
  • Add a tablespoon of broth, gravy, or tomato sauce before reheating to keep the meatloaf moist.
  • Slice the meatloaf into individual portions for even reheating.
  • Avoid reheating frozen meatloaf in a crockpot due to food safety concerns.
beef casserole recipes

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your beef casserole recipes and dinner with ground beef longer. They stay quality and safe.

Conclusion: Making This Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Your Own

As I wrap up this article on the loaded meatloaf casserole, I urge you to put your own spin on it. This dish, with its mix of ground beef, mashed potatoes, and cheese, is destined to be a hit with your family. The secret to a fantastic loaded meatloaf casserole lies in using top-notch ingredients and avoiding overmixing the meatloaf.

For an extra kick, try using pre-cooked turkey bacon bits or mixing ground beef with pork. The egg in the meatloaf helps keep everything evenly spread. Feel free to add your favorite veggies, like carrots or bell peppers, or swap out the cheese for sharp cheddar or mozzarella.

The most important thing is to have fun and make this loaded meatloaf casserole your own. It’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. So, get creative and enjoy your tasty loaded meatloaf casserole!

FAQ

What is a loaded meatloaf casserole and why is it a great option for dinner?

A loaded meatloaf casserole is a tasty meal with ground beef, mashed potatoes, and cheese. It’s perfect for dinner because it’s affordable, easy to make, and you can add your favorite toppings.

What are the essential ingredients for making a loaded meatloaf casserole?

To make a loaded meatloaf casserole, you need ground beef, crushed crackers, and diced onion. Also, garlic powder, egg, milk, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce are key. Don’t forget mashed potatoes and cheese for the top.

What kitchen tools and equipment do I need to make a loaded meatloaf casserole?

You’ll need a 9×13 inch baking dish, a large bowl, and a spoon. A cheese grater is also helpful. Optional tools include a kitchen scale and a meat thermometer.

How do I prepare the meatloaf mixture for my loaded meatloaf casserole?

Start by mixing ground beef, crushed crackers, onion, garlic powder, egg, milk, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl. Mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing.

What are some options for loading my casserole with delicious toppings?

For toppings, try cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan. You can also add diced bell peppers and chopped onions. Use ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, or BBQ sauce for extra flavor.

What are the step-by-step baking instructions for a loaded meatloaf casserole?

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the meatloaf for 25-30 minutes. Then, add mashed potatoes and cheese on top. Bake for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

What are some tips for achieving the best results every time I make a loaded meatloaf casserole?

Follow the temperature guidelines and use moisture control to keep the meatloaf juicy. Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I store and reheat a loaded meatloaf casserole?

To store, refrigerate or freeze the casserole to keep it fresh. Reheat in the oven or microwave following the instructions. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

Can I customize a loaded meatloaf casserole to suit my tastes and preferences?

Yes, you can add your favorite ingredients and toppings. This makes it perfect for families with picky eaters or for those who love trying new flavors.

Is a loaded meatloaf casserole a budget-friendly option for dinner?

Yes, it’s affordable because it uses ground beef and mashed potatoes. It’s also great for stretching your budget, as it makes a lot of food that can be reheated.

Is a loaded meatloaf casserole a time-saving option for dinner?

Yes, it’s quick and easy to make, taking under an hour. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you need a fast and simple meal.

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