Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
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There is something irresistibly comforting about a hearty, flavorful casserole that brings all your favorite ingredients together in one delicious dish. The Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe takes the classic meatloaf to a whole new level by layering savory ground beef, tangy ketchup, creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and ooey-gooey cheddar cheese into a warm, satisfying bake. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners when you crave something familiar yet exciting. Trust me, once you make this recipe, it will quickly become a go-to comfort food that everyone at your table will ask for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this casserole lies in its simple yet essential ingredients that work together harmoniously. Each component enhances the dish’s taste, texture, and color, making it a crowd-pleaser with minimal effort.
- 1 lb ground beef: The heart of the meatloaf, providing rich flavor and a tender base.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meat and add just the right texture.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a natural binder to keep everything together.
- 1/4 cup milk: Moistens the mixture to avoid dryness.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Adds subtle sweetness and depth.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Brings savory warmth without overpowering.
- 1 tsp salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle kick to balance richness.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Gives a smoky, umami boost.
- 1/2 cup ketchup: Layers tangy sweetness and helps form a beautiful glaze.
- 2 cups prepared mashed potatoes: Creamy topping that makes this casserole ultra comforting.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts to golden, gooey perfection for cheesy indulgence.
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled: Adds irresistible crunch and smoky flavor.
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives (optional): Fresh herbal touch for garnish and color.
How to Make Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Baking Dish
Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and prepare for the layers of goodness to come.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine your ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the ketchup. Stir everything until well blended but don’t overwork it; you want the texture tender and juicy, not dense.
Step 3: Form and Bake the Meatloaf Base
Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out so it covers the bottom in a flat layer. Smooth the surface, then spread the remaining ketchup all over the top. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the meat is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
Once the meatloaf base is perfectly baked, carefully spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly on top, creating a creamy blanket. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the potatoes, then scatter the crispy bacon crumbles for an irresistible combination of flavors.
Step 5: Final Bake for Melty Perfection
Return the casserole to the oven for another 10-15 minutes. This last bake lets the cheese melt into bubbly, golden goodness and warms the toppings through, making every bite rich and satisfying.
Step 6: Garnish and Cool Slightly
When you pull the casserole out of the oven, sprinkle chopped green onions or chives on top for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing so it holds together beautifully on your plate.
How to Serve Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions or chives adds just the right amount of brightness to complement the rich, cheesy layers. For extra flair, consider a dash of smoked paprika or a drizzle of sour cream to balance the flavors.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty enough to be a main dish, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables can add freshness and lighten the meal. Roasted carrots, green beans, or even a tangy coleslaw would be fantastic companions.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family meal, serve the casserole straight from the baking dish right at the table. If you want to impress guests, try scooping individual portions into mini ramekins or build a layered platter with additional garnishes like pickled jalapeños or fresh parsley sprigs for that extra pop.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cool it completely before storing to maintain its texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this casserole freezes well. After baking and cooling, cover tightly with foil and a layer of plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave until warmed through, or reheat the entire casserole in a 350°F oven covered with foil for 20-25 minutes. For best results, uncover near the end to crisp the cheese topping.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well if you prefer a leaner option, just be mindful to not overcook as it tends to dry out faster than beef.
What can I use instead of mashed potatoes?
If mashed potatoes aren’t your favorite, creamy cauliflower mash is a great alternative that keeps the texture silky and adds a subtle vegetable boost.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead and bake later?
Definitely. Assemble the entire casserole, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for busy days when you want dinner ready quickly.
How spicy is this dish?
The standard recipe isn’t spicy, but you can always add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture if you like a little heat.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like a warm, cheesy, and hearty meal to bring people together, and this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe delivers that comfort in every bite. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, it’s a delicious way to elevate a traditional favorite. I can’t wait for you to try it and share this cozy, crowd-pleasing dish with your loved ones!
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Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the classic flavors of meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, it’s baked in one dish for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
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 prepare for baking the meatloaf base.
- Make the Meatloaf Base: In a large mixing 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 thoroughly until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form and Bake the Meatloaf Base: Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, spreading it out to cover the entire base. Spread the remaining ketchup evenly on top of the meat. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is completely cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Add the Topping: Once the meatloaf layer is cooked, carefully spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the top. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes, then scatter the crumbled cooked bacon evenly on top of the cheese.
- Bake Again: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted completely and is bubbly with slight golden browning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and, if desired, sprinkle the chopped green onions or chives over the top for a fresh touch. Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing into portions and serving.
Notes
- Prepared mashed potatoes can be homemade or store-bought depending on your preference and time.
- For extra flavor, use smoked bacon for the topping.
- You can make the meatloaf base a day ahead and refrigerate; then add toppings and bake when ready.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
