Here’s a comfort-food Cheesy Meatloaf that’s juicy, flavorful, and kid-friendly 🧀🍽️
Cheesy Meatloaf
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or half beef, half turkey)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Colby-Jack)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
- 1 egg
- ½ cup milk
- ½ small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
Topping
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1–2 tbsp BBQ sauce (optional)
- Extra shredded cheese (optional, for the top)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mix breadcrumbs, milk, and egg.
- Add ground meat, onion, garlic, seasonings, and shredded cheese.
- Mix gently until just combined (don’t overmix).
- Press mixture into the loaf pan.
- Spread ketchup (and BBQ sauce if using) over the top.
- Bake for 40 minutes.
- Sprinkle extra cheese on top and bake 10–15 more minutes, until melted and cooked through.
- Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing.
Tips & Variations
- Extra cheesy: Add cheese cubes in the center for a melty core
- Healthier: Use ground turkey and low-fat cheese
- Flavor boost: Add a spoon of mustard or Worcestershire sauce
- Sides: Mashed potatoes, green beans, or corn
If you want, I can give you a one-pan version, air-fryer meatloaf, or a stuffed cheesy meatloaf 😋
