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golden-baked cheesy meatloaf casserole topped with herbs in white ceramic dish

Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole Bake

A smiling woman in a modern kitchen, wearing a brown apron, preparing a delicious dish with fresh ingredients.Sorrel Calver
A comforting meatloaf casserole baked in one dish and topped with melted cheese for easy serving and family-style meals.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 490 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small Bowl
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Spatula
  • Knife

Ingredients
  

Meatloaf Base

  • 1 1/2 lb ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 1/4 cup ketchup

Cheese Topping

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • cooking spray or oil for baking dish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Combine breadcrumbs and milk in a small bowl and let soak until softened.
  • Mix ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, parsley, and ketchup until just combined.
  • Spread the meat mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  • Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, then carefully drain excess grease if needed.
  • Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the partially baked meat.
  • Return to oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until cheese is melted and lightly golden.
  • Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Baking the meat first helps release excess fat before adding cheese, keeping the topping from becoming greasy.
Keyword Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole, Comfort Food Dinner, Easy Casserole Recipe, Meatloaf Bake