If you're looking for a hearty and comforting dish that combines classic meatloaf flavors with rich, cheesy goodness, look no further than this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole. This easy-to-make recipe takes all the elements of a traditional meatloaf and transforms it into a satisfying casserole that's packed with layers of flavor. It's topped with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and bacon, making it the perfect family-friendly dish for weeknight dinners or potlucks. Keep reading to find out how to make this cheesy masterpiece, along with tips, variations, and more!
What is a Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?
A Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a modern take on the traditional meatloaf, layered with creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and gooey melted cheese. Instead of forming a loaf, the seasoned ground beef is spread in a casserole dish and topped with delicious layers. This dish combines the savory flavors of meatloaf with the indulgent toppings you’d find on a loaded baked potato. The result is a crowd-pleasing, one-pan meal that's as comforting as it is satisfying.
Ingredients List for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
Here’s a list of everything you’ll need to make this indulgent and comforting Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole:
For the Meatloaf Base:
- 1 ½ pounds of ground beef (80/20 works best for flavor and moisture)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 small onion (finely diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (use homemade or store-bought)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese blend of your choice)
- ½ cup cooked bacon (crumbled)
- 2 tablespoons green onions (sliced, for garnish)
Optional Ingredients:
- Sour cream (for drizzling on top)
- Butter (to mix into the mashed potatoes for extra creaminess)
Substitutions and Variations
This recipe is versatile, so feel free to make it your own! Here are a few simple substitutions and variations to customize your casserole to suit your needs:
- Ground beef substitute: You can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter version. For a vegetarian alternative, use plant-based ground meat or a mix of lentils and mushrooms.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can be used in place of regular breadcrumbs. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats.
- Cheese options: While cheddar works wonderfully, you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a sharp white cheddar for a different flavor. For a spicier twist, try pepper jack cheese.
- Mashed potatoes: If you're short on time, you can use instant mashed potatoes or store-bought mashed potatoes. If you want a more indulgent dish, mix some cream cheese or sour cream into the mashed potatoes for added creaminess.
- Bacon alternative: If you're looking for a lighter version, you can skip the bacon or use turkey bacon instead. For a vegetarian option, use crispy tempeh or plant-based bacon.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish or baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Base
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, milk, diced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use clean hands or a spoon to mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense meatloaf.
Step 3: Spread the Meat Mixture
Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Use a spatula or your hands to evenly press the meatloaf mixture into the bottom of the dish, creating a flat, even layer.
Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F). While the meatloaf base is baking, prepare your mashed potatoes if you're making them from scratch.
Step 5: Add the Mashed Potatoes Layer
Once the meatloaf base is cooked, remove the casserole from the oven. Spread the mashed potatoes over the top of the meatloaf layer, smoothing it out with a spatula or spoon to ensure an even layer.
Step 6: Top with Cheese and Bacon
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes. Then, scatter the crumbled bacon on top of the cheese.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Cheesy
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once the casserole is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions for a pop of freshness. You can also add a drizzle of sour cream or extra bacon crumbles for added richness. Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Cook Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a summary of the steps to prepare your Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole:
- Preheat the oven and grease your casserole dish.
- Prepare the meatloaf base by combining ground beef, breadcrumbs, seasonings, and wet ingredients.
- Press the meat mixture into the casserole dish and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Spread mashed potatoes over the baked meatloaf base.
- Top with shredded cheese and bacon, then bake until bubbly.
- Garnish with green onions and serve with optional sour cream or extra toppings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the meat mixture: Overmixing the ground beef can result in a dense and tough meatloaf. Mix just until all ingredients are combined.
- Skipping the onion and garlic: These aromatics add tons of flavor to the meatloaf base, so don’t skip them! If you don’t like the texture of onions, you can finely grate them to keep the flavor while minimizing texture.
- Dry meatloaf base: If your meat mixture looks too dry, you can add an extra splash of milk or a spoonful of ketchup to keep it moist and tender.
- Not draining the fat: If your meatloaf releases a lot of grease while cooking, you can drain some of the excess fat before adding the mashed potatoes on top.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How to Serve Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
- Serve this hearty casserole as a main dish with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for balance.
- For a comforting family dinner, pair it with garlic bread or rolls to mop up the cheesy, meaty goodness.
- If you’re hosting a gathering, this casserole works well alongside other casseroles or classic side dishes like green beans or roasted carrots.
Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
- Sprinkle a handful of freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve individual portions in small ramekins or bowls for a more elegant presentation.
- Add a drizzle of sour cream or hot sauce over each serving to give it a gourmet finish.
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe Tips
- Make-ahead option: You can prepare the entire casserole a day in advance. Simply follow the steps up to adding the mashed potatoes and cheese, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time to account for the cold casserole.
- Freeze leftovers: This casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely and store portions in airtight containers. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Add veggies: You can mix vegetables like diced carrots, peas, or spinach into the meatloaf base for a more nutritious dish. Alternatively, layer sautéed vegetables between the meat and mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Yes! Instant mashed potatoes can be a convenient option when you're short on time. Just prepare them according to the package instructions and use them as the topping.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the meatloaf base and mashed potatoes in advance. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, add 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I freeze Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?
Yes! To freeze, assemble the casserole and allow it to cool completely. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until warmed through.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave in 1-2 minute increments, or you can reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
Conclusion
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is the perfect comfort food that brings together the best of classic meatloaf and indulgent toppings. With its layers of flavorful ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon, this dish is bound to be a hit with your family and friends. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this casserole is sure to please. Try this recipe today, and enjoy the ultimate in cheesy, meaty goodness!
PrintCheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole combines juicy seasoned ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and melted cheese for a comforting, hearty dish the whole family will love. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy meal at home, this casserole is loaded with flavor and easy to make. Keywords: Cheesy meatloaf casserole, loaded casserole, mashed potato casserole, ground beef dinner, comfort food.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Press the ground beef mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, forming an even layer.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the beef is cooked through.
- Remove the dish from the oven and spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meat layer.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, and add crumbled bacon and green onions if using.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, mix some grated Parmesan or Monterey Jack cheese with the cheddar.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add vegetables like peas or carrots to the mashed potato layer for added nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
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