Midwest Meat Loaf With Cheese Sauce
A hearty Midwest meat loaf topped with a rich cheese sauce, combining savory beef and oats with creamy cheese for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Stir Velveeta cheese, milk, and dry mustard in a saucepan over low heat until smooth.
- Reserve 3/4 cup of the cheese sauce.
- Mix the remaining cheese sauce with ground beef, oats, catsup, and chopped onion in a large bowl until well blended.
- Shape the mixture into an 8 x 3-inch loaf in a 10 x 6-inch baking dish.
- Bake for 40 minutes.
- Serve the meat loaf topped with the reserved cheese sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier cheese sauce, consider adding a tablespoon of butter or cream. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or use breadcrumbs instead of oats for a different texture. If you prefer a little heat, add some diced jalapeños to the meat mixture. This meat loaf pairs beautifully with Cheesy Burger Pie for a comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat loaf with a generous drizzle of the reserved cheese sauce on top. It goes well with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic dinner. For a fun twist, serve it alongside Cheesy Pizza Potatoes for a hearty meal that the whole family will love. A simple garden salad can also balance the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish covered with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes for a crispy exterior.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Midwest Meat Loaf With Cheese Sauce contains roughly 334 calories, with 11g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1350mg per serving (59% 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 make this meat loaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat loaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just shape it into a loaf and cover tightly. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of Velveeta cheese?
If you prefer a more natural cheese option, try using a combination of cheddar and cream cheese for a similar creamy texture. You can also use a processed cheese slice if you want a more traditional flavor, but adjust the milk quantity to achieve your desired consistency.
How can I tell when the meat loaf is fully cooked?
The best way to ensure your meat loaf is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. It should register at least 160°F in the center. If you don't have a thermometer, check that the juices run clear when you insert a knife into the center, and the loaf should be firm to the touch.
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).