Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a delightful twist on traditional meatloaf, transforming the classic comfort food into a one-pan wonder. This casserole combines savory meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and crispy bacon in a satisfying layered dish. Each bite delivers a mouthful of cheesy, meaty, and potato-filled goodness, making it the perfect choice for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or anytime you crave hearty comfort food. Here’s everything you need to create this delicious, family-friendly casserole.

In this recipe, we take the flavors of meatloaf and give it a comforting makeover, layering it with creamy mashed potatoes and topping it with cheese and bacon for an irresistible finish. Think of it as meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and loaded baked potato flavors all coming together in one dish. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this casserole is a guaranteed hit that’ll leave everyone at the table satisfied.

Preparation Tips

1. Choose the Right Meat: Use ground beef with 80% lean for the best flavor and juiciness.
2. Avoid Overmixing: When combining the meatloaf ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough meatloaf.
3. Smooth Potato Layer: Mash the potatoes until creamy and smooth to avoid lumps in the casserole layer.

How to Make Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Base

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
4. Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create a flat, compact layer.
5. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. This partial bake helps the meatloaf set, making it easier to layer the mashed potatoes on top later.

Step 2: Make the Mashed Potato Layer

1. While the meatloaf is baking, bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the cubed potatoes.
2. Boil the potatoes until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork.
3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, sour cream, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Remove the meatloaf from the oven after the initial baking time.
2. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf layer, using a spatula to create a smooth layer.
3. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes.
4. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 4: Add the Toppings

1. In a separate skillet, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Let it cool slightly, then crumble it into small pieces.
2. Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the melted cheese.
3. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole warm, garnished with extra green onions or parsley if desired. Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. This dish is rich and filling, so smaller portions may be sufficient, especially if served alongside other sides.

Storage and Reheating Tips

1. Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. Freeze: This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and store them in freezer-safe containers.
3. Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions.

Recipe Variations

1. Add Vegetables: For a more nutritious twist, add vegetables like corn, peas, or carrots to the meatloaf mixture or as a layer on top of the meatloaf before adding the potatoes.
2. Swap the Cheese: Try different cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor.
3. Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the meatloaf or potato layer for a bit of heat.
4. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
   • Yes, if you’re short on time, instant mashed potatoes can be a convenient substitute. Just make sure they’re thick and creamy.
2. What’s the best type of bacon to use?
   • Thick-cut bacon works well because it adds a good crunch and flavor without getting lost among the other ingredients.
3. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
   • Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can make a leaner casserole, although the flavor will be slightly different.
4. Is there a substitute for Worcestershire sauce?
   • Soy sauce or a bit of balsamic vinegar can be used in place of Worcestershire sauce for added depth of flavor.
5. How can I make the mashed potatoes extra creamy?
   • For even creamier potatoes, increase the butter and sour cream, or add a splash of heavy cream when mashing.

Additional Tips for Success

1. Line Your Baking Dish: To prevent sticking, you can line the baking dish with parchment paper or foil, making it easier to lift out and slice the casserole.
2. Season Well: Don’t skimp on the seasoning in either the meatloaf or mashed potato layers. Each layer should be well-seasoned to ensure every bite is flavorful.
3. Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to help it set, making it easier to cut and serve.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole combines all the elements of a hearty, satisfying meal into one dish. It’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, with layers of meat, creamy potatoes, and gooey cheese, all topped with crispy bacon. Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or meal prep, this casserole offers the comfort of a classic meatloaf with an elevated twist that everyone will love.

Conclusion

The Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings together the comfort of meatloaf, the creaminess of mashed potatoes, and the richness of cheese and bacon. This recipe is straightforward, customizable, and perfect for feeding a group or meal-prepping for the week. By following the steps in this guide, you’ll create a memorable meal that’s sure to earn rave reviews.

Serve it with your favorite side dishes, and watch this casserole become a new family favorite. Enjoy the layers of flavor, texture, and cheesy goodness in each hearty bite!

Yield: 6

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

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Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a delightful twist on traditional meatloaf, transforming the classic comfort food into a one-pan wonder. This casserole combines savory meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and crispy bacon in a satisfying layered dish. Each bite delivers a mouthful of cheesy, meaty, and potato-filled goodness, making it the perfect choice for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or anytime you crave hearty comfort food. Here’s everything you need to create this delicious, family-friendly casserole.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 40 minutes

Ingredients

• Meatloaf Base:
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup onion, finely diced
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Potato Topping:
• 4 cups mashed potatoes (about 5 large potatoes, cooked and mashed)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Toppings:
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatloaf Base:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, diced onion, egg, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, but avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
   Press the meatloaf mixture into an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
   
2. Bake the Meatloaf Layer:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the meat is nearly cooked through.
   
3. Prepare the Potato Topping:
   While the meatloaf bakes, mix the mashed potatoes with sour cream, milk, salt, and pepper until creamy and smooth.
   
4. Add Toppings and Bake Again:
   Remove the baking dish from the oven and spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf layer.
   Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the mashed potatoes.
   
5. Final Bake:
   Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
   
6. Garnish and Serve:
   Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped green onions, and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

• Potato Options: Use homemade or store-bought mashed potatoes. You can also use mashed cauliflower for a low-carb version.
• Additions: Feel free to add more toppings, such as extra cheese, diced jalapeños, or a drizzle of barbecue sauce for added flavor.