Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole Bake

Ingredients
Meat Layer
1 kg ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
½ cup breadcrumbs
½ cup milk
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Sauce
1½ cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp sugar
Topping
2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar
2–3 fresh tomatoes, sliced
Fresh thyme or parsley (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven
Set oven to 180°C (350°F).
Prepare the meat
In a bowl, mix ground beef, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning until just combined.
Make the sauce
Mix tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire, and sugar.
Assemble
Press the meat mixture into a greased baking dish.
Pour sauce evenly over the top.
Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
Add cheese & tomatoes
Remove foil, top with shredded cheese and tomato slices.
Finish baking
Return to oven uncovered for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Rest & serve
Let sit 10 minutes before slicing.
🔥 Serving Tips
Amazing with mashed potatoes or crusty bread
Even better the next day
Add chili flakes if you like heat