Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole takes the classic flavors of meatloaf and turns them into a rich, layered bake that’s both hearty and crowd-pleasing. Imagine seasoned ground beef, a creamy mashed potato topping, and a generous layer of melted cheese, all baked until bubbling and golden. This all-in-one dinner is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you’re simply craving something warm and satisfying.
What Makes This Dish Special?
This casserole transforms traditional meatloaf into a layered comfort food feast. It combines a savory meatloaf base with buttery mashed potatoes and gooey cheese for a complete meal in one dish. It’s also flexible—you can add bacon, green onions, or veggies to customize it to your liking.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Base:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Topping:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked crumbled bacon (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch or similar-sized baking dish.
2. Make the Meatloaf Layer
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
3. Bake the Base
Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the meat is mostly cooked through.
4. Add Mashed Potatoes and Cheese
Remove the dish from the oven. Carefully spread the mashed potatoes over the cooked meat layer. Sprinkle shredded cheese and bacon (if using) on top.
5. Final Bake
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve Hot
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with green onions if desired.
Variations
- BBQ Twist: Add a few tablespoons of BBQ sauce to the meat mixture or drizzle over the top before baking.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Veggie Mix: Mix chopped mushrooms, carrots, or bell peppers into the meat base for extra nutrition.
- Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower mash instead of mashed potatoes.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula or spoon
- Baking dish (9×9 or similar)
- Oven
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions.
- Freezing: Freeze baked casserole (without toppings if preferred) for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
My Cooking Experience
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is my go-to when I want all the comforting flavors of meatloaf with the added bonus of mashed potatoes and cheese. It’s incredibly easy to prep ahead and bake later. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a smart choice for meal planning.
Conclusion
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole delivers all the flavor of a traditional meatloaf dinner in a convenient, casserole-style package. Whether you’re cooking for the family or prepping meals for the week, this dish is sure to satisfy your comfort food cravings.
cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch or similar-sized baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
- Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the meat is mostly cooked through.
- Remove the dish from the oven. Carefully spread the mashed potatoes over the cooked meat layer. Sprinkle shredded cheese and bacon (if using) on top.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with green onions if desired.
Notes
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions.
- Freezing: Freeze baked casserole (without toppings if preferred) for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
