Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

Looking for the ultimate comfort food that combines all your favorites into one delicious dish? Look no further than this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole! This recipe takes traditional meatloaf to the next level by topping it with mashed potatoes, cheese, and bacon, creating a hearty casserole that will satisfy even the biggest appetites. It's like meatloaf and a loaded baked potato had the perfect culinary baby! Packed with flavor, this dish is a perfect weeknight meal for the family or a cozy weekend dinner. Read on for the full recipe and some tips to make this casserole even more mouthwatering.

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What Is Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a delicious combination of savory meatloaf topped with creamy mashed potatoes, melty cheese, and crispy bacon. The bottom layer is a flavorful meatloaf mixture made from ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. It’s topped with a thick layer of creamy mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, and bacon crumbles, then baked until bubbly and golden. Think of it as a one-pan meal where you get all the best comfort food elements—meaty, cheesy, and loaded with goodness.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this comforting casserole:

For the Meatloaf Layer:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef: The base of the meatloaf. You can use ground turkey or a mix of ground beef and pork for extra flavor.
• ½ cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatloaf together. You can use panko, regular breadcrumbs, or even crushed crackers.
• ¼ cup milk: Adds moisture to the meatloaf.
• 1 egg: Helps bind the mixture.
• 1 small onion, finely diced: Adds sweetness and flavor to the meat.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: For a flavorful kick.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds savory depth.
• 1 tablespoon ketchup: For moisture and a touch of sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon salt: To season the meat mixture.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: For a little heat and seasoning.

For the Potato Layer:

• 4 cups mashed potatoes: You can use leftover mashed potatoes or make fresh ones. Instant mashed potatoes work in a pinch, but homemade is best.
• ¼ cup sour cream: For creaminess and tang in the mashed potatoes.
• ¼ cup butter: Adds richness to the potatoes.
• ½ cup milk: To make the mashed potatoes smooth and creamy.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for flavoring the mashed potatoes.

For the Topping:

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The melty, cheesy goodness that tops the casserole.
• 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled: Adds a salty, crispy element that makes this dish indulgent.
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives (optional): For garnish and a pop of color and freshness.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is versatile, so feel free to customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some variations you can try:

• Ground turkey or chicken: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner version.
• Vegetarian option: Swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute, or use a mixture of lentils and mushrooms to create a vegetarian-friendly meatloaf base.
• Add vegetables: Mix in finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach into the meatloaf mixture for added nutrition.
• Different cheeses: While cheddar is classic, you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats to make the meatloaf gluten-free.
• Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for some heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole:

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Layer

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Mix the meatloaf ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, diced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until everything is well incorporated.
3. Form the meatloaf base: Spread the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Press it down to form an even layer.
4. Bake the meatloaf layer: Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s mostly cooked through and has slightly browned on top. It will continue cooking when the casserole is fully assembled.

Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. Make the mashed potatoes: While the meatloaf is baking, prepare your mashed potatoes. If you're using fresh potatoes, boil them until tender, then mash with butter, sour cream, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. If you’re using leftover mashed potatoes, warm them up and stir in a bit of milk and butter to refresh them.
2. Adjust consistency: If the mashed potatoes are too thick, add a little extra milk until they are smooth but still thick enough to spread over the meatloaf.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Add the mashed potato layer: Once the meatloaf has partially cooked, remove it from the oven and spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf layer.
2. Add the cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes, making sure it's evenly distributed.
3. Top with bacon: Scatter the crumbled bacon over the cheese layer.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Final bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
2. Garnish: Once out of the oven, sprinkle with chopped green onions or chives for a fresh, colorful touch.

How to Cook Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

To make sure your Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole turns out perfect every time, follow these helpful tips:

• Don’t overmix the meat: When mixing the ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, don’t overwork the meat. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.
• Taste the mashed potatoes: Be sure to taste your mashed potatoes before adding them to the casserole. Adjust salt and butter as needed to ensure they are flavorful and creamy.
• Cook the meatloaf layer first: Ensure the meatloaf layer is mostly cooked before adding the potatoes. This step guarantees that the meat will be fully cooked without drying out when baking the entire casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to watch out for when making Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole:

• Using dry mashed potatoes: If your mashed potatoes are too dry, they won’t spread well or create a smooth topping for the casserole. Add enough milk and butter to keep them creamy.
• Skipping the pre-bake for the meatloaf: Not baking the meatloaf first can result in unevenly cooked meat. Always pre-cook the meatloaf layer before adding the mashed potatoes.
• Overbaking the casserole: Keep an eye on the casserole during the final bake to avoid overcooking. You want the cheese to melt and become golden, but not burn.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When serving Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole, here are a few ways to make it extra special:

• Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley, chives, or green onions over the top for a fresh, colorful presentation.
• Serve with a side: Pair the casserole with a fresh side salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted green beans to balance out the richness of the dish.
• Portion control: This is a rich, filling meal, so serve it in hearty slices alongside a lighter side dish for a well-rounded dinner.

How to Serve Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

This casserole is best served hot and fresh from the oven. Let it cool for about 5 minutes before slicing into generous portions. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables make great side dishes to balance out the richness of the meatloaf and mashed potatoes. You can also add a drizzle of gravy or extra sour cream on top if you’re feeling indulgent.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

• Family-style: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for a casual, family-style dinner.
• Individual servings: If you want a more formal presentation, slice the casserole into individual portions and plate them with a side of vegetables or a salad.

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to the point where you add the mashed potatoes, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add the cheese and bacon, then bake as directed.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• Freeze it: This casserole freezes well. Assemble the entire dish, then wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F for about 45-50 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it's heated through.

Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
A: Yes, instant mashed potatoes work in a pinch. Just make sure they are creamy and seasoned well to maintain the flavor and texture.

Q: Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
A: Absolutely! Finely diced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be added to the meat mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the best parts of a classic meatloaf and mashed potatoes into one incredibly satisfying dish. Topped with gooey melted cheese and crispy bacon, this casserole is sure to be a hit with your family. It’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make, with plenty of opportunities to customize it to your liking. Whether you're serving it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend comfort meal, this cheesy casserole will definitely hit the spot. Try it today and enjoy the cheesy, loaded goodness!

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