Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole takes classic meatloaf to the next level by layering it with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and crispy bacon. It’s a hearty, comforting meal that the whole family will love. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole 9 This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole takes classic meatloaf to the next level by layering it with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and crispy bacon. It’s a hearty, comforting meal that the whole family will love. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!


Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Ground beef
  • Onion, diced
  • Garlic, minced
  • Bread crumbs
  • Egg
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Ketchup
  • Salt and pepper
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Cooked bacon, crumbled
  • Green onions (for garnish, optional)

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, bread crumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. Press the meat mixture into the bottom of the baking dish and bake for 25 minutes.
  4. Remove from the oven and spread a layer of mashed potatoes over the meatloaf.
  5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes.
  6. Return to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Remove from the oven and sprinkle crumbled bacon and green onions on top.
  8. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 6
  • Prep time: 15 minutes
  • Cook time: 40 minutes
  • Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the meat mixture or sprinkle with red pepper flakes.
  • BBQ Twist: Swap the ketchup for barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor.
  • Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower mash instead of mashed potatoes.
  • Extra Veggies: Mix in shredded carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze the fully cooked casserole in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or microwave until heated through.
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole 10 This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole takes classic meatloaf to the next level by layering it with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and crispy bacon. It’s a hearty, comforting meal that the whole family will love. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!


FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge before baking. When ready, bake as directed.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

Cheddar is a great choice, but you can also use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner option.

How do I prevent my meatloaf from drying out?

Make sure not to overbake it and use enough moisture from ketchup or Worcestershire sauce.

Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?

Yes, diced bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms work well in the mixture.

What should I serve with this casserole?

A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread complement this dish perfectly.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, instant mashed potatoes work well for convenience, but homemade mashed potatoes provide the best flavor.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers instead of regular breadcrumbs.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Use a larger baking dish and adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

The oven is best for maintaining texture, but the microwave works for a quick option.

Conclusion

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon. It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe for a meal your family will request again and again!

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Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

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  • Author: Maria B. Evans

Description

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole takes comfort food to the next level! A juicy, flavorful meatloaf base is topped with creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and gooey melted cheese for a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • For the Meatloaf Base:
  • 1 1/2 lbs (680g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • For the Loaded Mashed Potato Topping:
  • 2 lbs (900g) russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
  • 1/4 cup chopped cooked bacon
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

  • 1. Prepare the Meatloaf Base
  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Mix until just combined.
  • Press the mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Spread ketchup evenly over the top.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, until partially cooked.
  • 2. Make the Mashed Potatoes
  • While the meatloaf bakes, boil potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15 minutes.
  • Drain and mash with butter, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  • Stir in sour cream and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
  • 3. Assemble the Casserole
  • Remove the meatloaf from the oven and carefully spread the mashed potatoes over the top.
  • Sprinkle with extra cheddar cheese and chopped bacon.
  • 4. Bake & Serve
  • Return to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot!

Notes

  • Make it Spicier: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture.
  • Make it Lighter: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
  • Nutrition (Per Serving, Approximate)
  • Calories: ~500
  • Protein: ~30g
  • Carbs: ~40g
  • Fat: ~25g
  • Sodium: ~850mg

Nutrition

  • Calories: ~500
  • Sodium: ~850mg
  • Fat: ~25g
  • Protein: ~30g

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