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
Scale
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
