If you are craving something comforting, hearty, and bursting with flavor, this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines juicy, well-seasoned ground beef with creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese all baked together in one beautiful dish. Every bite offers a perfect harmony of savory meat, fluffy potatoes, and gooey cheese, making it an irresistible family favorite that’s easy to prepare and perfect for cozy dinners any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each bringing its own unique texture, color, and flavor to the table. From the rich ground beef that forms the hearty base to the crispy bacon crumbles that top it off with a smoky crunch, every element has its role in creating this delicious layered casserole.
- 1 lb ground beef: The foundation of the meatloaf, providing juicy, savory flavor and protein.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meat mixture together, keeping it tender and moist.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to hold the meatloaf base firmly in place.
- 1/4 cup milk: Adds moisture, keeping the meatloaf from drying out.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Infuses the meat with subtle sweetness and flavor depth.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Brings a fragrant, savory hint to the meat mixture.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, tying everything together.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle kick for balance and warmth.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Gives a tangy umami boost that deepens the savory notes.
- 1/2 cup ketchup: Half mixed inside the meat and half as a glaze for a touch of sweetness and acidity.
- 2 cups prepared mashed potatoes: Creamy layer that complements the meat with softness and richness.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, sharp pockets of deliciousness over the potatoes.
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled: Adds a crispy, smoky contrast on top.
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives (optional): Fresh, mild bite for garnish and color.
How to Make Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start your journey toward deliciousness by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. This prep step is quick but crucial to ensure your casserole bakes evenly and doesn’t stick.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the ketchup. Stir everything well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. This mix is the heart of the Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe, so take a moment to appreciate the aromas and flavors blending together.
Step 3: Form and Bake the Meatloaf Layer
Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish, creating a solid base layer. Then spread the remaining ketchup over the top. Pop it into the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the meat is cooked through — no pink should remain. This step builds the savory foundation on which the rest of your casserole shines.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
Once your meatloaf base has baked, gently spread the creamy mashed potatoes evenly across the top. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously, followed by the crumbled cooked bacon. This layering adds excitement and layers of flavor typical of this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe.
Step 5: Final Bake for Melted Perfection
Return the casserole to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, with enticing golden spots. This final baking step brings all the components together in a warm, irresistible hug.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Take your casserole out of the oven and sprinkle chopped green onions or chives on top if you like a fresh pop of color and flavor. Let it cool just a little bit before slicing so everything holds together beautifully. Your Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe is now ready to brighten any dining table!
How to Serve Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like green onions or chives elevate the dish visually and add a mild, refreshing bite that cuts through the richness of the meat and cheese. A light drizzle of extra ketchup or a dollop of sour cream can also complement the flavors nicely for those who enjoy a little extra tang or creaminess.
Side Dishes
This casserole is pretty complete on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider crisp green salads with bright vinaigrette or steamed veggies such as green beans or broccoli. These sides provide a fresh, crunchy contrast to the casserole’s creamy and cheesy texture.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in small ramekins for a fun, personalized touch at dinner parties. You can also layer the casserole in clear glass dishes to showcase the cheesy and meaty layers through the sides, adding visual appeal to your feast. For family meals, simply slice into hearty squares and serve straight from the pan for that warm, homey feel.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days, making it a convenient and tasty option for quick lunches or dinner rewinds.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in foil or store portions in freezer-safe containers, and it will last up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best flavors and textures.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, to keep the cheese melty and the edges crispy. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power, but the oven method preserves texture better.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a leaner alternative and will still absorb all the wonderful flavors in the Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe. Just be sure not to overcook to keep it moist.
Is it necessary to use mashed potatoes or can I substitute another topping?
Mashed potatoes add creaminess and a comforting texture, but you can experiment with mashed cauliflower for a lower-carb option or even cooked rice for a slightly different twist.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to the point before the final bake, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Then bake fresh when you are ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
Cheddar is the classic choice for sharpness and melting quality. However, feel free to mix in mozzarella for extra gooeyness or a smoked cheese for added depth.
How spicy is this casserole? Can I add heat?
This recipe is mild and family-friendly, but if you love a bit of heat, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or topping with jalapeno slices before baking.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe is a warm hug on a plate, combining familiar flavors in a fresh, exciting way that’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. It’s straightforward enough for weeknights but rich enough to impress any guest. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try soon—your taste buds will thank you with every gooey, savory bite!
Print
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish featuring a ground beef meatloaf base topped with mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon. Perfectly baked to combine savory flavors and creamy textures, it’s an ideal family-friendly dinner that’s easy to prepare and sure to please.
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
Toppings
- 1/2 cup ketchup (remaining half)
- 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.
- 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 thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form and Bake the Meatloaf Base: Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it to cover the bottom completely. Spread the remaining ketchup on top of the meat layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
- Add the Topping: Carefully spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf base. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes, followed by the crumbled cooked bacon.
- Bake Again: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly, and the toppings are heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions or chives if desired. Allow to cool slightly before slicing into portions and serving.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly prepared mashed potatoes or good quality store-bought mashed potatoes.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper.
- Make sure the meatloaf is cooked through to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- For gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
