Name: Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; ½ cup breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; ¼ cup milk; ¼ cup finely chopped onion; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; ½ cup ketchup; 2 cups prepared mashed potatoes; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 4 slices cooked bacon (crumbled); 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives (optional for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats the combination of a hearty meatloaf and cheesy mashed potatoes. This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole takes these two classic dishes and combines them into one amazing, flavorful meal. The recipe starts with a simple but flavorful meatloaf base, made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. It’s then topped with a creamy layer of mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, creating the ultimate casserole. The result is a satisfying, cheesy, and savory dish that will make your family or guests ask for seconds. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal, this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is sure to become a go-to comfort food favorite. With its blend of savory flavors, melty cheese, and crispy bacon, this casserole is perfect for anyone who loves hearty, delicious meals that bring people together. Plus, it’s simple to make and doesn’t require any special ingredients, making it an easy and satisfying choice for busy cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a blend of flavors that everyone will love. The combination of a moist meatloaf base, creamy mashed potatoes, and melty cheese creates the ultimate comfort food experience. The crumbled bacon adds a crispy, savory crunch, while the green onions or chives provide a fresh, flavorful finish. It’s the perfect dish to serve for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week. The casserole is versatile too — feel free to swap in different types of cheese or top it with your favorite vegetables. It’s easy to make ahead, and the leftovers are just as delicious. This recipe is ideal for anyone who enjoys simple, hearty meals that are packed with flavor. Plus, it’s customizable, so you can make it your own by adding different toppings or spices. If you’re looking for a comforting, satisfying meal, this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole will not disappoint.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf Base:

Ground beef
Breadcrumbs
Large egg
Milk
Finely chopped onion
Garlic powder
Salt
Black pepper
Worcestershire sauce
Ketchup

For the Topping:

Prepared mashed potatoes
Shredded cheddar cheese
Cooked bacon
Chopped green onions or chives

Variations

Different Meat Options: While this recipe uses ground beef, you can swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter or different flavor.
Cheese Options: If you prefer a different cheese, feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese for a bit of a spicy kick.
Add Veggies: You can add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the meatloaf mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
Make it Spicy: Add a bit of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the meatloaf base or mashed potatoes to give this casserole a spicy twist.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. This ensures the casserole doesn’t stick to the dish during baking.

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 all the ingredients together until well combined, but be sure not to overwork the mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.

Step 3: Form and Bake the Meatloaf Base

Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out to cover the bottom. Spread the remaining ketchup on top of the meat mixture for extra flavor and moisture. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.

Step 4: Add the Topping

Once the meatloaf base is cooked, carefully spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes, followed by the crumbled bacon. This adds a rich, savory topping that will melt into the casserole during the next bake.

Step 5: Bake Again

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the topping is golden brown. This step allows the cheese to melt into the mashed potatoes and meatloaf, creating a gooey, cheesy texture.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions or chives for added color and flavor. Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Lean Ground Beef: For a leaner version, opt for ground beef with a lower fat content. Just be aware that it may be less juicy, so you may need to add a bit more moisture (like a splash of milk).
Customize Your Mashed Potatoes: If you want to make your mashed potatoes even creamier, add a bit of butter or sour cream before spreading them over the meatloaf base.
Make Meatloaf Base Ahead of Time: You can prepare the meatloaf base a day ahead, then simply assemble the casserole and bake when you’re ready to serve.
Watch the Cheese: To prevent the cheese from over-browning, check on it towards the end of baking. If the cheese is getting too golden, cover the casserole with aluminum foil for the last few minutes.
Use a Wide Baking Dish: A 9×9-inch dish works best, but if you’re doubling the recipe, a 9×13-inch baking dish is ideal for a larger batch.

How to Serve

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole can be served as a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Try serving it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to balance the richness of the casserole. For a more indulgent meal, you can serve it with additional mashed potatoes or garlic bread for a filling, hearty dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even better the next day!

Freezing

This casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.

Reheating

To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F and bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf base a day in advance and assemble the casserole before baking. Simply bake when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a lighter version of this casserole.

4. How can I make the mashed potatoes creamier?

Add butter, cream cheese, or sour cream to the mashed potatoes for extra creaminess.

5. Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Yes, you can add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the meatloaf base or topping for added flavor and nutrition.

6. How do I prevent the cheese from over-browning?

Keep an eye on the casserole during the last few minutes of baking. If the cheese is browning too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil.

7. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before wrapping and storing in the freezer.

8. How do I reheat frozen casserole?

To reheat a frozen casserole, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake it at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until heated through.

9. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

You can, but homemade mashed potatoes will provide a richer and creamier texture to the casserole.

10. Can I omit the bacon?

Yes, you can omit the bacon if you prefer a vegetarian version or if you simply want a lighter casserole.

Conclusion

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines the best of both worlds: meatloaf and cheesy mashed potatoes. This dish is easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table. With its savory meatloaf base, creamy mashed potato topping, and melty cheese, it’s a casserole that will quickly become a family favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you coming back for more. Enjoy!