Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a delicious twist on the traditional meatloaf. This dish combines the heartiness of meatloaf with comforting mashed potatoes and melted cheese. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. If you’re looking for a satisfying and easy meal, you might want to try this recipe out. You may also find Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole useful.
why make this recipe
This casserole brings together classic flavors that are sure to please everyone at the table. It’s also customizable; you can add your favorite ingredients to make it even more suited to your taste. Plus, if you enjoy other hearty casseroles, you might also love the cheesy and creamy broccoli cauliflower casserole, which offers a different yet equally satisfying flavor profile.
how to make Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup (divided)
- 2 cups prepared mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or an 8×8-inch dish for a thicker casserole.
- Make the Meatloaf Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the ketchup. Mix until well combined.
- Form and Bake the Meatloaf Base: Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it to cover the bottom. Spread the remaining ketchup on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the meat is cooked through and no longer pink.
- Add the Topping: Carefully spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, then add the crumbled bacon.
- Bake Again: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with green onions or chives, if desired. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
how to serve Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
You can serve this casserole as a main dish alongside a simple salad or some steamed vegetables. It’s filling and comforting, making it a great centerpiece for Sunday dinners or family gatherings. For another great option, you might also want to try a loaded potato and meatloaf casserole that’s equally delicious.
how to store Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
tips to make Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
- You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a flavor twist.
- If you want a crispy topping, broil the casserole for a few minutes after baking to brown the cheese slightly.
variation
Feel free to replace ground beef with turkey or chicken to create a lighter version of this casserole. You can also use sweet potatoes instead of regular mashed potatoes for a different taste.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf base and freeze it before baking. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
What can I serve with this casserole?
You can pair it with a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables to complete the meal.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, instant mashed potatoes can be used if you’re short on time. Just follow the directions on the package to prepare them before assembling the casserole.
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
Ingredients
Meatloaf Base
- 1 lb ground beef Can substitute with turkey or chicken.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup ketchup Divided
Topping
- 2 cups prepared mashed potatoes Homemade or store-bought.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Can experiment with different cheeses.
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives Optional for garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or an 8×8-inch dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the ketchup.
- Press the meat mixture evenly into the baking dish and spread the remaining ketchup on top.
Baking the Meatloaf Base
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the meat is cooked through and no longer pink.
Topping the Casserole
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, then add the crumbled bacon.
Final Bake
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with green onions or chives if desired. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
