If you are craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines juicy meat, creamy potatoes, and a gooey cheese topping, this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful spin on classic meatloaf that layers flavors and textures in one satisfying casserole, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering. The rich cheddar, crispy bacon, and savory meat blend beautifully, creating a dish so irresistible you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds before you know it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet flavorful ingredients is the secret to making this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe truly shine. Each component plays a crucial role, whether adding moisture, seasoning, or that unforgettable cheesy crunch on top.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides the hearty protein base with rich flavor and perfect texture.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatloaf mixture and keeps it tender.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a natural binder for the meat mixture, ensuring it holds together well.
- 1/4 cup milk: Adds moisture to keep the meatloaf juicy and soft.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Brings a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Offers an aromatic boost that enhances the savory notes.
- 1 tsp salt: Essential for balancing and elevating all the flavors.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds subtle heat to complement the richness.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Gives a tangy, umami punch that deepens the meat’s flavor.
- 1/2 cup ketchup: Used both inside and on top for a sweet and tangy glaze.
- 2 cups prepared mashed potatoes: Smooth and creamy topping that adds comfort and creaminess.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into a bubbly, golden crust that’s utterly delicious.
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled: Adds smoky crunch to top it all off perfectly.
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives (optional): Brings a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
How to Make Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. This step ensures your casserole won’t stick while baking and helps develop a lovely crust on the meatloaf base.
Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Base
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the ketchup. Mix everything gently but thoroughly to blend the flavors without compacting the meat too much, which keeps it tender once baked.
Step 3: Form and Bake the Meatloaf Base
Press this meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it to cover the entire bottom layer. Next, spread the remaining ketchup evenly on top — this glossy layer caramelizes in the oven, adding a tangy finish. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the meat is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
Step 4: Add the Topping
Once your meatloaf base is perfectly baked, gently spread the prepared mashed potatoes over it in an even layer. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese all over the top, followed by the crumbled cooked bacon. This layering brings that classic loaded baked potato feel to the casserole.
Step 5: Bake Again to Melt and Brown
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes. This short bake melts the cheese into a bubbly, golden blanket and crisps the bacon slightly, making the dish visually enticing and scrumptiously flavorful.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
After you take the casserole out of the oven, sprinkle the green onions or chives on top for a fresh burst of color and flavor. Let it cool just a few minutes before slicing to help everything set nicely. Then dive in and enjoy!
How to Serve Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped green onions or chives are a beautiful and tasty garnish. They add a vibrant green touch and a hint of sharpness that cuts through the richness of the casserole. For a little extra flair, a dollop of sour cream on the side can also elevate the experience.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a hearty dish on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted Brussels sprouts balances the meal with freshness and texture contrast. Simple steamed green beans tossed with lemon zest also complement the cheesy, meaty flavors wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe family-style straight from the baking dish for a cozy feel, or plate individual slices garnished with extra crispy bacon and herb sprigs for a more elegant touch. It also makes fantastic leftovers layered in a sandwich or stuffed inside a baked potato for a creative twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, and the flavors actually deepen, making every bite even better the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save this casserole for later, it freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil or place it in a freezer-safe container, then freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15–20 minutes. This method keeps the cheese melty and prevents the topping from becoming soggy. Microwaving works if you’re short on time, but results are best when reheated gently in the oven.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work fine but keep in mind they are leaner proteins, so adding a bit of olive oil or an extra egg can help keep the meatloaf moist.
Is it possible to make the mashed potatoes from scratch?
Yes, freshly made mashed potatoes from boiled and mashed potatoes with butter and milk will taste wonderful in this casserole and add a lovely homemade touch.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate before baking?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to the point of baking and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just bake it accordingly when you’re ready to enjoy.
What type of cheese works best if I don’t have cheddar?
Sharp or mild cheddar is ideal, but you can substitute with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorites for a different flavor and melt.
How spicy is this casserole? Can I add heat?
This recipe is mild and family-friendly, but you can easily add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the meat mixture if you love a bit of spice.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe that hits all the right comfort food notes with ease. It’s an absolute crowd-pleaser that blends rich, cheesy goodness with hearty meat and comforting potatoes, all baked into one dish. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how effortless it is to make weeknight dinners feel special. Once you do, this recipe will surely become a beloved staple in your home as it has in mine!
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Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4-6 people
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting, hearty meal that combines seasoned ground beef with a creamy mashed potato topping, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon. Baked to perfection, this casserole is perfect for a family dinner, offering layers of robust flavors and a satisfying texture.
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
Topping
- 1/2 cup ketchup (remaining from meatloaf base)
- 2 cups prepared mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Make the Meatloaf Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the ketchup. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Form and Bake the Meatloaf Base: Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it to cover the bottom uniformly. Spread the remaining ketchup on top of the meatloaf layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
- Add the Topping: Carefully spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf layer to create a smooth topping. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes, then evenly distribute the crumbled bacon on top.
- Bake Again: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions or chives if desired. Allow it to cool slightly for easier slicing, then serve warm.
Notes
- Use prepared mashed potatoes for convenience or make your own for a homemade touch.
- Cook bacon ahead of time and crumble for easier assembly.
- For a lower fat option, use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey.
- Add extra vegetables such as diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture for added nutrition.
- If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the meatloaf mixture.
