Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

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This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole brilliantly combines two comfort food classics into one satisfying dish. The bottom layer features a perfectly seasoned traditional meatloaf that's topped with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon - reminiscent of a loaded baked potato. What makes this recipe special is how it transforms familiar ingredients into an elevated casserole that's greater than the sum of its parts. The meatloaf base provides hearty substance while the potato and cheese topping adds creamy richness, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It's an ingenious way to serve meatloaf that's both familiar and exciting, making it ideal for family dinners when you want something comforting but a little different from the usual.
Home Delicious Recipes
Updated on Mon, 24 Feb 2025 13:34:06 GMT
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Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole creates the ultimate comfort food experience by combining two beloved classics into one irresistible dish. This hearty creation features a perfectly seasoned meatloaf base crowned with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon crumbles. Each forkful delivers layers of flavor and texture – from the savory, juicy meat layer to the creamy potato topping and the smoky crunch of bacon that ties everything together.

When I first served this at our family Sunday dinner, my father-in-law, who typically requests "just a small portion," helped himself to seconds without hesitation. The empty casserole dish spoke volumes about its appeal.

Essential Elements

  • Ground beef: Choose 80/20 for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness
  • Breadcrumbs: Provide structure while keeping the meat tender
  • Mashed potatoes: Create the creamy layer that defines this casserole
  • Sharp cheddar: Melts beautifully while adding distinct flavor
  • Crispy bacon: Contributes essential smoky notes and textural contrast
  • Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the meaty flavors with umami richness
  • Fresh onion: Adds aromatic sweetness throughout the meatloaf
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Creating Perfect Casserole

Meatloaf Foundation:
Mix ingredients with a light touch to avoid compacting. Press evenly into the baking dish, creating a level surface for toppings.
First Bake:
Allow meatloaf to cook partially before adding toppings. This ensures proper doneness without overcooking the cheese layer.
Potato Application:
Spread warm mashed potatoes carefully over the partially baked meatloaf. Create an even layer for consistent cheese melting.
Final Assembly:
Layer cheese and bacon strategically for maximum coverage. Finish with brief broiling for golden perfection.

My grandmother always said the secret to great meatloaf was "mixing with love but not too much." This recipe honors her wisdom by creating a tender meat base that still holds its shape under the toppings.

Perfect Pairings

Serve this hearty casserole with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness. Steamed broccoli or green beans provide a fresh contrast, while warm dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any savory juices.

Creative Variations

Experiment with adding diced bell peppers or carrots to the meatloaf for extra nutrition. Try substituting ground turkey for a lighter version, or create a Tex-Mex twist with pepper jack cheese and taco seasoning.

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Storage Success

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or warm the entire casserole, covered with foil, in a 325°F oven until heated through.

After years of perfecting comfort food recipes, I've found that this casserole represents the best of home cooking - hearty, satisfying, and filled with love. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or looking for a dish that provides delicious leftovers, this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole delivers on all promises of comfort and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf layer up to a day ahead and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, add the mashed potato topping and other ingredients, then bake as directed, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
→ What sides go well with this casserole?
Since this is already a complete meal with protein and starch, a simple green vegetable or salad makes the perfect accompaniment. Try roasted broccoli, steamed green beans, or a fresh garden salad.
→ Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for using leftover mashed potatoes. Just make sure they're warm enough to spread easily over the meatloaf layer.
→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or place the entire casserole (in an oven-safe dish) in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
→ Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. You can freeze it either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or baking.

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

A hearty casserole that combines traditional meatloaf with loaded potato toppings for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
40 Minutes
Total Time
55 Minutes

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 6 Servings

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ For the Meatloaf Base

01 1 lb ground beef
02 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
03 1 large egg
04 1/4 cup milk
05 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
06 1 tsp garlic powder
07 1 tsp salt
08 1/2 tsp black pepper
09 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
10 1/2 cup ketchup (divided)

→ For the Topping

11 2 cups prepared mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
12 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
13 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
14 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives (optional)

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or an 8×8-inch dish for a thicker casserole.

Step 02

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. Mix until well combined.

Step 03

Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it to cover the bottom. Spread the remaining ketchup on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the meat is cooked through and no longer pink.

Step 04

Carefully spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, then add the crumbled bacon.

Step 05

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 06

Remove from the oven, and sprinkle with green onions or chives, if desired. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

  1. Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the meatloaf layer in advance and refrigerate. When ready to serve, add mashed potatoes and toppings, then bake as directed.
  2. Substitute: You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if preferred.

Tools You'll Need

  • 9×9-inch or 8×8-inch baking dish
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula or spoon for spreading
  • Oven

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy
  • Eggs
  • Wheat

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 420
  • Total Fat: 24 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 28 g
  • Protein: 26 g