There’s just something about the aroma of a hearty meal filling the kitchen that instantly makes a house feel like home. Family dinners are all about connection, warmth, and comfort, and I can’t think of a dish that captures that spirit better than this one. Trust me, you’ll want to try this easy loaded meatloaf casserole for a family favorite dinner! It’s simple to whip up, and the flavors meld together beautifully to create a dish that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing! Get ready to gather your loved ones around the table because this casserole is sure to become a staple in your home. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
How to Prepare Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
First things first, you’ve got to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because it ensures that your casserole cooks evenly. While that oven is warming up, you can get everything else ready. It’s like a warm-up for your delicious creation!
Mix Ingredients
Now, grab a large bowl and let’s get mixing! Combine the 1 pound of ground beef, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup of chopped onion, 1/2 cup of chopped bell pepper, 1 cup of shredded cheese, 1/4 cup of ketchup, 2 eggs, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Don’t be shy—get your hands in there and mix until everything is well combined. You want to ensure that all those flavors mingle together beautifully. It’s a messy job, but trust me, it’s worth it!
Shape and Bake
Once you’ve got that mixture ready, it’s time to transfer it to a greased baking dish. Shape it into a loaf—this doesn’t have to be perfect, just a nice, hearty shape! Pop it in the oven and let it bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s cooked through and the aroma fills your kitchen. Seriously, it’ll make your mouth water!
Rest and Slice
After it’s done baking, don’t rush to slice it up just yet! Let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute, making every slice tender and juicy. Once it’s had a moment, grab your knife and slice it up. You’re ready to serve this family favorite! Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Easy to throw together with simple ingredients you probably already have.
- Flavorful and satisfying, with that classic meatloaf taste everyone loves.
- Loaded with veggies, it’s a sneaky way to get some extra nutrition in!
- Family-friendly—kids and adults alike will be reaching for seconds.
- Great for leftovers, you can enjoy it again the next day!
- Versatile; you can easily customize it with your favorite add-ins.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your easy loaded meatloaf casserole turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips to elevate your dish:
- Use good quality ground beef: I always opt for grass-fed beef if I can find it. It really makes a difference in flavor and texture!
- Fresh veggies: Chop your onions and bell peppers fresh for that extra crunch and flavor. If you have time, sautéing them lightly before adding can enhance their sweetness.
- Don’t overmix: When combining your ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to a tougher texture. You want it to be tender and juicy!
- Let it rest: Seriously, don’t skip the resting period after baking. This little step is crucial for keeping all those delicious juices in your meatloaf, making every slice perfect!
- Get creative: Feel free to customize! Throw in some chopped mushrooms, grated carrots, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a flavor boost. The possibilities are endless!
- Serve it right: Pair your casserole with creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh side salad to balance the richness. It’s comfort food at its best!
With these tips, you’ll be on your way to mastering the ultimate meatloaf casserole that the whole family will rave about!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of this easy loaded meatloaf casserole! It’s always good to have a rough idea of what we’re serving up, right? Here’s an estimate of the nutritional values per slice:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 560mg
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 20g
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, so they’re just a ballpark figure. But trust me, with all that goodness packed in, you’re getting a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy! Enjoy every bite knowing it’s comforting and filling without being overly indulgent.
FAQ Section
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! This easy loaded meatloaf casserole can be prepared in advance. Just mix all your ingredients and shape the loaf, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven and adjust the baking time if needed since it’ll be cold from the fridge.
What can I serve with meatloaf casserole?
Oh, the options are endless! I love serving this casserole with creamy mashed potatoes or a light, crunchy side salad for some freshness. You could also pair it with roasted veggies or buttery corn for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy. The heartiness of the casserole complements so many sides!
Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes, definitely! To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed gluten-free crackers. It’s a simple switch that ensures everyone can enjoy this family favorite dinner without any worries!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s talk about how to properly store those delicious leftovers so you can enjoy your easy loaded meatloaf casserole even after the first meal! First off, make sure the casserole has cooled down to room temperature before you store it. This helps prevent any condensation from making it soggy. I like to transfer any leftovers into an airtight container; it keeps them fresh and flavorful for longer!
You can store the casserole in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to label it with the date, so you know when it needs to be eaten. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Just like that, you can enjoy this comforting dish for up to three months!
When it’s time to reheat, the best method is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the slice on a baking sheet, and cover it with aluminum foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave—just pop a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for about 1-2 minutes, but be careful not to overdo it, or it can dry out. Either way, you’ll be back to enjoying that savory goodness in no time!
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited to try this easy loaded meatloaf casserole as I am! It’s such a comforting dish that brings everyone together. Once you’ve given it a whirl, I’d love to hear about your experiences! Did you add any of your favorite ingredients or make a twist on the recipe? Maybe you have a special side dish that pairs perfectly with it? Don’t be shy—share your variations and tips in the comments below! Cooking is all about experimenting and having fun, so let’s inspire each other to make this family favorite even better. Enjoy every delicious moment!
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Try This Easy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole for Dinner Bliss
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Try this easy loaded meatloaf casserole for a family favorite dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, bell pepper, cheese, ketchup, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Shape it into a loaf.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Serve with mashed potatoes or a side salad.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- This can be made ahead of time and baked later.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: easy loaded meatloaf casserole, family dinner, meatloaf, casserole
