Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Fresh Ingredients: This dish uses simple, fresh ingredients that pack a punch of flavor.
2. Ease of Preparation: It’s straightforward to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
3. Nutrition: Packed with protein and comfort, it provides a hearty meal for everyone.
4. Versatility: Customize with your favorite toppings or add vegetables for extra nutrition.
5. Presentation: The layers of meat, mashed potatoes, and cheese create a beautiful dish that will impress.

You’ll find this recipe truly delightful for all occasions!

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total time: 1 hour
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 45 minutes

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 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)

How To Make Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

1️⃣ 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.
2️⃣ 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.
3️⃣ 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.
4️⃣ 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.
5️⃣ Bake Again: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6️⃣ 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

1. Presentation: Serve in the dish for a rustic look or transfer slices to individual plates.
2. Accompaniments: Pair with a crisp salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.
3. Portions: Cut into squares for easy serving and sharing.
4. Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with iced tea or a light red wine for a complete meal.

You’ll love how easy it is to create a beautiful plate!

Additional Tips

• Flavor Enhancement: Add your favorite spices like paprika or smoked paprika for an extra kick.
• Customization: Switch out ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Serving Suggestions: Top with sour cream for added creaminess and flavor.

Recipe Variations

1. BBQ Meatloaf Casserole: Replace ketchup with barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor.
2. Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or black beans.
3. Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or pepper jack cheese for heat.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in plastic containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Special Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spoon or spatula
• Oven mitts
• Knife and cutting board

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen ingredients? Yes, frozen ground beef and mashed potatoes can work well. Just thaw them completely before cooking.
2. Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet? You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs for those avoiding gluten.
3. Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare the meatloaf mixture and store it in the fridge the night before.
4. What other toppings can I use? Feel free to experiment with toppings like sautéed mushrooms or different kinds of cheese.
5. Can I cook this in a slow cooker? Yes, you can cook the meatloaf mixture in a slow cooker on low for about 6 hours or high for 3 hours.

Conclusion

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a fantastic dish that brings together delicious flavors and an impressive presentation. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy weeknight dinner. With its multitude of mouthwatering layers and comforting textures, this recipe inspires both novice and seasoned cooks alike. Try it tonight, and enjoy the wonderful aroma and taste!
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Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

A deliciously layered casserole featuring a savory meatloaf base topped with creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheddar cheese.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 6 servings

Course: dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

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) Use half for meatloaf base and half for topping.

Toppings

• 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)

Method

 

Preparation

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.

Assembly and Baking

1. Carefully spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf layer.
2. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, then add the crumbled bacon.
3. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Remove from the oven, and sprinkle with green onions or chives, if desired. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

For added flavor, enhance with spices like paprika or smoked paprika. You can also use turkey or chicken for a lighter option, and add toppings like sour cream, jalapeños, or different cheeses.