Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole (Print Version)

# 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:

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.
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.
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.
04 - Carefully spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, then add the crumbled bacon.
05 - Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
06 - Remove from the oven, and sprinkle with green onions or chives, if desired. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

# Notes:

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