Cheese Crowned Meat Loaf
A savory meat loaf topped with melted cheese and a crispy cereal crust, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, offering comforting flavors with a cheesy twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the egg, water, salad dressing mix, seasoned salt, and cereal.
- Let the mixture stand for 10 minutes.
- Stir to break up the cereal.
- Add the ground beef and chopped celery to the mixture.
- Mix well until thoroughly combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf shape.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- During the last 5 minutes of baking, place slices of American or Cheddar cheese on top of the loaf.
- Cut slices in half diagonally and arrange as triangles across the top of the loaf.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture and flavor, consider mixing in some finely chopped onions or bell peppers. If you don't have Wheat Chex, crushed saltine crackers or breadcrumbs can be good substitutes. To enhance the flavor, try adding some garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture. Make sure the meatloaf is well-formed to maintain its shape while baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese crowned meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Easy Rice And Mushrooms for a comforting dinner option. Consider drizzling a bit of ketchup or barbecue sauce over the top for extra flavor. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Crowned Meat Loaf contains roughly 399 calories, with 17g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (62% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1817mg per serving (79% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the lean ground beef in this recipe. Just be aware that turkey may result in a slightly drier meatloaf, so consider adding a bit more moisture, such as an extra egg or some broth, to keep it juicy.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done cooking?
The best way to check if the meatloaf is done is by using a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F (70°C) when fully cooked. Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and no longer pink in the center. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing for easier serving.
Can I freeze meatloaf for later?
Absolutely! You can freeze the meatloaf either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, shape it into a loaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and then in aluminum foil. To bake from frozen, increase the baking time by about 20-30 minutes. If freezing leftovers, slice the meatloaf before wrapping it for easier portioning.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).