Cheesy Loaded Beef Meatloaf Casserole

This Cheesy Loaded Beef Meatloaf Casserole is the perfect blend of comfort and indulgence. It starts with a tender, flavorful meatloaf base topped with creamy mashed potatoes, gooey melted cheese, and crispy bacon. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this hearty dish is sure to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines the best parts of comfort food—meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and cheese—in one dish.

Easy to prepare and versatile for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Customizable with different cheeses or add-ins to suit your taste.

Uses pantry staples and ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Reheats beautifully for a quick and satisfying leftover meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Meatloaf Base:

1 lb (450g) ground beef

1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbs

1/4 cup (60ml) milk

1 egg

1/2 onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Mashed Potato Layer:

2 cups (450g) mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)

1/4 cup (60ml) sour cream or cream cheese (optional, for creaminess)

1/4 cup (60ml) milk (if needed to loosen the potatoes)

For the Toppings:

1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup (60g) cooked and crumbled bacon

2 tablespoons chopped green onions or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a medium-sized casserole dish.

Prepare the Meatloaf Layer:

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Press the mixture evenly into the casserole dish.

Bake the Meatloaf Base:

Bake the meatloaf layer in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

If using homemade mashed potatoes, mix them with sour cream or cream cheese for added creaminess. Add milk as needed for a spreadable consistency.

Assemble the Casserole:

Remove the partially cooked meatloaf from the oven. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the potatoes and top with crumbled bacon.

Bake the Casserole:

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.

Garnish and Serve:

Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with green onions or parsley, slice into portions, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

Cheese Options: Use mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses for different flavors.

Add Vegetables: Layer sautéed mushrooms or spinach between the meatloaf and mashed potatoes.

Sauce Addition: Add ketchup or barbecue sauce to the meatloaf layer for an extra tangy touch.

Protein Swap: Substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Related Recipes:

• Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
• Mini Meatloaf Muffins with Mashed Potato Frosting
• Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites

FAQs

How can I make this casserole ahead of time?

You can prepare and assemble the casserole, then cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.

What can I serve with this dish?

This casserole pairs well with a side salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted carrots for a balanced meal.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Swap the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs, and ensure any pre-made ingredients like mashed potatoes are gluten-free.

How do I make the mashed potatoes extra creamy?

Mix in sour cream, cream cheese, or butter, and adjust with milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Conclusion

Cheesy Loaded Beef Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate one-dish comfort meal, perfect for any occasion. It’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to customize to your preferences. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and enjoy the irresistible combination of flavors.

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