I’ve been thinking about easy weeknight dinners that really satisfy, and nothing quite beats a good meatloaf. It’s a classic comfort food, and I love how versatile these comforting meatloaf recipes can be.
Today, I’m sharing two fantastic meatloaf recipes that I think you’ll really enjoy. They’re perfect for family meals and bring plenty of flavor to your dinner table, making them great easy dinner ideas.
Jump to Recipe:
Classic Cheddar Stuffed Meatloaf: Your Next Family Dinner
This meatloaf is a favorite because of the amazing cheddar cheese baked right inside. It’s a simple, hearty meal that I know your family will love, perfect for any night of the week.
Key Ingredients & Tips
- Ground Beef Choice: I like using a mix of 80/20 ground beef. It gives good flavor and keeps the meatloaf moist without being too greasy.
- Stuffing the Cheese: Don’t be shy! Make a good pocket for the cheddar to melt into the center. This makes every slice extra special.
- Binder Power: Breadcrumbs and egg help hold everything together. I often use panko for a slightly lighter texture, but regular breadcrumbs work great too.
What You Need
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup ketchup (for glaze)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (for glaze)
⏱️ Time: 1 hour 15 mins🍽️ Yields: 6 servings
How to Make It
Step 1: Mix the Meatloaf Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix everything until it’s just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the meatloaf tough.
Step 2: Stuff and Shape Your Meatloaf
On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, press half of the meat mixture into a rectangle shape. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over this layer, leaving a small border around the edges. Top with the remaining meat mixture and carefully shape it into a neat loaf, making sure the cheese is fully enclosed.
Step 3: Bake and Glaze for Flavor
In a small bowl, mix the ketchup and brown sugar to create your glaze. Spread this evenly over the top of your meatloaf. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
📝 Final Note
Letting the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking helps the juices settle, making it moister and easier to slice cleanly.
Easy Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with Veggies
Get ready for a complete meal in one dish! This meatloaf casserole packs in ground beef, lots of cheese, and plenty of vegetables, making dinner easy and delicious for your family.
Key Ingredients & Tips
- Hidden Veggies: I like to grate some carrots or zucchini into the meatloaf mixture itself. It adds moisture and extra goodness without anyone really noticing them.
- Cheese Layering: Don’t just put cheese on top! A layer in the middle and on top ensures cheesy goodness throughout the casserole.
- Creamy Base: Adding a little cream of mushroom soup or a simple béchamel sauce makes the whole casserole extra comforting and rich.
What You Need
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 cups shredded mixed cheese (cheddar, mozzarella)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup water or beef broth
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
⏱️ Time: 1 hour 10 mins🍽️ Yields: 6-8 servings
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare Your Meatloaf Mixture
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Gently combine everything until it’s just mixed.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole Layers
Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the frozen mixed vegetables over the meatloaf base. In a separate small bowl, stir together the cream of mushroom soup and water/broth until smooth, then pour this mixture evenly over the vegetables. Top generously with the shredded mixed cheese.
Step 3: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like.
📝 Final Note
This casserole is great for making ahead! You can assemble it the night before and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake for a super easy dinner.
