The Art of Ultimate Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole Perfection

Perfect Meat Browning

Master the technique of properly browning ground beef for maximum flavor development.

Smooth Potato Preparation

Learn the skill of creating perfectly smooth, creamy mashed potato topping layer.

Layering Strategy Mastery

Perfect the method of building flavorful layers for optimal cheese distribution and presentation.

Cheese Melting Control

Master the art of achieving perfectly melted, golden cheese without overcooking.

Temperature and Timing Balance

Learn optimal baking techniques for thorough cooking and beautiful golden finish.

Casserole Mastery Secrets for Perfect Cheesy Meatloaf Results

Meat Texture: Don't overmix the beef - gentle handling keeps it tender and juicy.

Potato Consistency: Make sure potatoes are completely smooth to spread easily over meat.

Cheese Distribution: Layer cheese throughout for maximum melted cheese in every bite.

Resting Time: Let casserole rest after baking for cleaner slicing and serving.

Make-Ahead Option: Assemble completely, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Browning Success: Remove foil during last portion of baking for golden, crispy top.

Ultimate Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole with Layers of Beef and Melted Cheese

Name: Ultimate Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole with Layers of Beef and Melted Cheese
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Meatloaf Base:; 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend); 1 large onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1/2 cup milk; For the Seasonings:; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon ketchup; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon paprika; For the Potato Layer:; 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled; 1/2 cup butter; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup milk; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; For the Cheese Components:; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; For the Vegetable Mix:; 1 cup frozen corn kernels; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 red bell pepper, diced

The ultimate cheesy meatloaf casserole featuring seasoned ground beef layers, creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and savory vegetables baked to golden perfection in one convenient dish. This hearty comfort food masterpiece combines the classic appeal of traditional meatloaf with the convenience of casserole cooking and extra cheese indulgence, creating an unforgettable family dinner experience that elevates simple ground beef to extraordinary heights perfect for weeknight dinners, potluck gatherings, or any time you crave the perfect balance of savory meat, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese satisfaction in every comforting bite.

Prep Time

25 Minutes

Cook Time

45 Minutes

Total Time

1H10 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

For the Meatloaf Base:

2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)

1 large onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup breadcrumbs

2 large eggs, beaten

1/2 cup milk

For the Seasonings:

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon ketchup

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon paprika

For the Potato Layer:

3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled

1/2 cup butter

1/2 cup sour cream

1/4 cup milk

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Cheese Components:

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

4 ounces cream cheese, softened

For the Vegetable Mix:

1 cup frozen corn kernels

1 cup frozen peas

1 red bell pepper, diced

2 carrots, diced small

For the Sauce Elements:

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

1/4 cup tomato paste

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

For the Binding Agents:

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 cup beef broth

For the Topping Layer:

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons melted butter

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Flavor Enhancers:

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For Special Equipment:

9x13-inch baking dish

Large skillet

Potato masher

Aluminum foil

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F and grease 9x13-inch baking dish thoroughly.

Boil peeled potatoes in salted water for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.

Meanwhile, heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add diced onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened and translucent.

Add minced garlic and cook for additional minute until fragrant.

Add ground beef to skillet, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.

Cook beef for 8-10 minutes until browned and no pink remains.

Stir in diced carrots and bell pepper, cooking for 3-4 minutes.

Add tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to develop deep flavor.

Sprinkle flour over meat mixture and stir to coat evenly.

Pour in beef broth, diced tomatoes, and Worcestershire sauce.

Add brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, and all seasonings.

Simmer mixture for 8-10 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally.

Stir in frozen corn and peas during last 2 minutes of cooking.

Drain cooked potatoes and return to pot for mashing.

Add butter, sour cream, milk, cream cheese, salt, and garlic powder.

Mash potatoes until smooth and creamy, adding more milk if needed.

Spread half of meat mixture in prepared baking dish.

Sprinkle 1 cup cheddar cheese over meat layer.

Add remaining meat mixture as second layer.

Spread mashed potatoes evenly over meat layers.

Top with remaining cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses.

Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over cheese.

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Remove foil and bake additional 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Let rest for 10 minutes before serving for easier cutting.

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately while hot.

Ultimate Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole with Layers of Beef and Melted Cheese

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

The Art of Ultimate Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole Perfection

Ultimate Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole with Layers of Beef and Melted Cheese

Ingredients

Instructions