Description
This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish with layers of savory meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions. A perfect family meal that combines all your favorite comfort food into one casserole.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Meatloaf Base:
- 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
For the Topping:
- 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)
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking dish.
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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.
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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 of the meat mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and no longer pink.
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Add the Topping:
- Carefully spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, followed by the crumbled bacon.
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Bake Again:
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with green onions or chives, if desired. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can use pre-made mashed potatoes to save time.
- For extra flavor, add some garlic powder or ranch seasoning to the mashed potatoes.
- Feel free to substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add extra bacon for more crunch or use different cheese varieties for variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American