Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with Vegetables
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with Vegetables is the ultimate comfort food classic reimagined. This hearty, one-pan meal layers seasoned ground beef with sautéed vegetables and a creamy mashed potato topping, all finished off with bubbling melted cheese. Packed with flavor and family-friendly ingredients, it’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights, meal prep, or cozy gatherings. Easily customizable and freezer-friendly, this veggie-loaded casserole brings together everything you love in a meatloaf—plus the added goodness of cheese and color from fresh produce.
Equipment
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl For combining ground meat, veggies, and seasonings
- 1 Medium skillet Optional – for sautéing vegetables before mixing
- 1 9x13-inch casserole dish Ideal for even baking and easy serving
- 1 Spatula or wooden spoon To spread layers and mix ingredients
- 1 Potato masher If making mashed potatoes from scratch
- 1 Saucepan For boiling potatoes or warming ingredients
- 1 Grater For shredding cheese if using block cheese
- 1 Oven mitts Safety when transferring hot dishes
- 1 Aluminum foil (optional) For covering while baking or storing leftovers
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Layer:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup ketchup or BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Vegetables (can be sautéed or raw):
- ½ cup diced bell peppers
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup chopped spinach or kale
- ½ cup zucchini grated (optional)
Mashed Potato Topping:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes homemade or prepared
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ¼ cup milk adjust for consistency
Cheese Topping:
- 1 to 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar or a mix of your choice
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish optional
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
Prepare the Vegetables:
- Sauté the veggies briefly in a pan or add them raw to the meat mixture for a chunkier texture.
Mix the Meatloaf Layer:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, ketchup, seasonings, and vegetables. Mix gently to avoid overworking.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the meat mixture evenly in the bottom of the dish. Layer the mashed potatoes over the top, smoothing them with a spatula.
Add the Cheese:
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the mashed potatoes for a melty, golden finish.
Bake:
- Place in the oven and bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Rest and Serve:
- Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Best in oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes or microwave for 2–3 minutes per serving.
Carbs: 22g
Fat: 30g