When I think of comfort food, the warm, cheesy aroma of Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole fills my mind. I remember gathering around the dinner table with family as we enjoyed this hearty dish, laughter echoing as we savored every bite. This recipe matters because it brings a sense of togetherness and joy, turning ordinary moments into cherished memories. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this casserole has a way of making everyone feel at home. What makes it truly special is how simple it is to prepare while still delivering big flavors that please both kids and adults alike.
why make this recipe
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a perfect dish for several reasons. First, it’s a complete meal all in one dish, combining protein, carbs, and cheese for a satisfying experience. It’s also incredibly easy to put together, making it a great option for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite ingredients, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys it. And, most importantly, it’s delicious!
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
Serve the Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole warm from the oven. It pairs nicely with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also offer some extra ketchup or barbecue sauce on the side for those who like an extra kick.
how to store Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it. Just make sure to cover it tightly before freezing, and it can last for up to 3 months.
tips to make Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- Customize the toppings by adding your favorite cheese or vegetables.
- If you have leftover mashed potatoes, this is a great way to use them!
- Try adding some spices or hot sauce to the meat mixture for extra flavor.
variation
You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version. Substituting sweet potatoes for traditional mashed potatoes can add a different flavor and color to the dish.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf base and layer the toppings, then cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! Instant mashed potatoes work well and save time.
What can I serve with Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?
It goes great with a salad, green beans, or garlic bread for a hearty meal.
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
Ingredients
Meatloaf Base
- 1 lb ground beef Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Can use regular or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk Any type of milk can be used.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 tsp garlic powder Or 2 cloves of fresh garlic.
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup Divided for layering.
Toppings
- 2 cups prepared mashed potatoes Homemade or store-bought.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Can substitute with your favorite cheese.
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives Optional garnish.
Method
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or an 8x8-inch dish for a thicker casserole.
- 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.
Baking
- 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.
- Carefully spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, then add the crumbled bacon.
- 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.