Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines the classic flavors of a meatloaf with the creamiest cheese sauce and crunchy toppings. This casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, as it's easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and can be served with a side of garlic bread or roasted vegetables. The meatloaf itself is packed with ground beef, pork, and a blend of spices, while the cheese sauce is made with a rich bechamel and a blend of cheddar, parmesan, and mozzarella. With its gooey cheese, savory meat, and crunchy toppings, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
For the meatloaf:
* 1 pound ground beef
* 1/2 pound ground pork
* 1 onion, finely chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 egg
* 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 cup milk
For the cheese sauce:
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 1 cup milk
* 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
* 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
* 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the toppings:
* 1 cup crushed crackers (such as Ritz or saltines)
* 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
* 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Cooking Steps:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatloaf for 45-50 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
5. While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly, and cook until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar, parmesan, and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. Slice into thick rounds.
7. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of the cheese sauce on the bottom. Arrange the sliced meatloaf on top of the sauce, followed by a layer of crushed crackers, frozen peas and carrots, and shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat this process until all the ingredients are used up, ending with a layer of cheese sauce on top.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Tips and Variations:
* To add some extra flavor, top the casserole with diced cooked bacon or chopped cooked ham.
* For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
* To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef and pork with a vegetarian meat substitute or a combination of sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
* To make a gluten-free version, replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and be sure to check the ingredients of the cheese sauce and toppings for gluten content.
* To make individual portions, use mini loaf pans or ramekins and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
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