If you’re craving comfort food that feels like a warm kitchen hug, you’re going to adore this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe. It’s a wonderful twist on traditional meatloaf, layering juicy, flavorful meat with creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, all baked into one heavenly casserole. This dish brings together bold flavors and textures in a way that’s perfect for cozy weeknights, family dinners, or anytime you want to impress without fuss. Trust me, once you try this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe, it’ll quickly become a staple for your home cooking rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe plays a key role in creating a balanced and satisfying dish. From hearty beef to melted cheddar and the perfect hint of smoky bacon, you’ll appreciate how simple ingredients come together for delightful flavor and texture.
- 1 lb ground beef: The meaty foundation that’s rich and juicy, giving this casserole its heart.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Adds just enough binding and texture to keep the meatloaf tender.
- 1 large egg: Helps hold everything together for a perfect slice every time.
- 1/4 cup milk: Enriches the meat mixture, keeping it moist as it bakes.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses a gentle, savory aroma throughout the casserole.
- 1 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all other flavors.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Gives just the right amount of gentle spice.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: A tangy boost that brings umami richness.
- 1/2 cup ketchup: Provides a sweet and tangy glaze on the meatloaf layer.
- 2 cups prepared mashed potatoes: Smooth, creamy topping that contrasts perfectly with the savory meat below.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, cheesy perfection on top.
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled: Adds irresistible smoky crunch in every bite.
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives (optional): A fresh, mild oniony pop to brighten the finale.
How to Make Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prep Your Dish
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it nice and hot. Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick and can be served beautifully without a fight.
Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the ketchup. Mix everything gently but thoroughly so all the flavors mingle and the consistency is just right. This step is crucial because it forms the tasty meat layer that’s juicy and full of flavor.
Step 3: Form and Bake the Meatloaf Base
Next, press the meat mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish, spreading it all the way to cover the bottom. Spread the remaining ketchup on top to add a slightly sweet glaze. Pop the dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and no longer pink. The aroma alone will start to convince you this is going to be a winner.
Step 4: Add the Topping
When the meatloaf base is done, carefully spread the creamy mashed potatoes evenly over the entire surface. Then sprinkle on the shredded cheddar cheese and finally scatter the crispy, crumbled bacon on top. This combination provides heavenly layers of smooth, cheesy, and crunchy textures that everyone loves.
Step 5: Bake Again Until Melty and Bubbling
Return your casserole to the oven for an additional 10–15 minutes. This step lets the cheese melt into ooey-gooey perfection and the bacon warm through, uniting all elements into one irresistible dish.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the cascade of green onions or chives over the top for a fresh burst of flavor and color. Let it cool just a bit to set those layers, then slice and serve. This final touch brings everything together for a lovely, inviting presentation.
How to Serve Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding chopped green onions or fresh chives on top not only brightens the look of the casserole but also offers a subtle freshness that balances the richness of the cheese and bacon. Feel free to experiment with a bit of parsley or even a drizzle of hot sauce for extra personality.
Side Dishes
This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is quite hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies provides a lovely contrast of textures and flavors. Simple roasted carrots or garlic green beans work beautifully, giving you a well-rounded meal full of color and nutrients.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist at family dinners or gatherings, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for lovely single portions. Or layer it in a clear glass casserole dish so everyone can admire those delicious layers before diving in. Adding a rustic wooden serving board underneath makes it feel extra special and homey.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe keeps well for up to 3 days, and the flavors actually deepen overnight, making for a fantastic next-day meal.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but baking preserves the crispy bacon and melts the cheese perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well, but because they are leaner, consider adding a bit of olive oil or use slightly less breadcrumbs to keep the meatloaf moist.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs, and double-check your Worcestershire sauce for gluten content to keep this dish safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Is it possible to prepare this recipe fully in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the entire casserole up to baking and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for busy days or entertaining.
What type of mashed potatoes work best?
Classic creamy mashed potatoes, whether homemade or from a good-quality prepared brand, provide the best texture. Just make sure they are smooth and not too chunky for an even topping.
Can I add extra vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Chopped bell peppers, shredded carrots, or spinach can be mixed into the meat mixture for added nutrition and flavor without overwhelming the classic taste.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe is everything you want in a comfort meal—rich, cheesy, satisfying, and topped with that irresistible crunch of bacon. It’s an easy, crave-worthy dish that feels special but requires no fuss. I’m excited for you to try it and see just how quickly it becomes a new favorite you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy every warm, cheesy bite!
Print
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish featuring a savory ground beef meatloaf base topped with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon. Perfect for a family dinner, this casserole combines classic flavors in an easy-to-make, baked dish that’s both filling and delicious.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Base
- 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)
Toppings
- 2 cups prepared mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Make the Meatloaf Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the ketchup. Mix everything thoroughly until well blended to ensure even flavor.
- Form and Bake the Meatloaf Base: Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it so it covers the entire bottom. Spread the remaining ketchup evenly over the meat layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
- Add the Topping: Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes, then add the crumbled cooked bacon over the cheese.
- Bake Again: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted fully and is bubbly, and the toppings are warmed through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions or chives if desired. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before slicing into servings and serving to enjoy a comforting, cheesy meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add herbs such as thyme or parsley into the meat mixture.
- If you prefer, use smoked gouda or mozzarella cheese instead of cheddar for a different cheesy profile.
- Make sure the mashed potatoes are prepared in advance or use leftovers to save time.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your oven; check the meatloaf’s internal temperature for safety (should be 160°F/71°C).
- To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
