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
Scale
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.
