If you love meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and melted cheese, this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is the perfect dish! It’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a great option for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy comfort food cravings.
This casserole combines juicy seasoned meatloaf, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and gooey melted cheese, creating a delicious twist on a classic meal.
Ingredients (Serves 6-8)
For the Meatloaf Base:
- 900g (2 lbs) ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
- 2 eggs
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup ketchup
For the Mashed Potato Layer:
- 900g (2 lbs) potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup milk (or heavy cream)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons green onions or parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Base
1️⃣ Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2️⃣ In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup.
3️⃣ Press the mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Bake the Meatloaf Layer
4️⃣ Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the meat is cooked through.
5️⃣ Drain any excess grease from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Mashed Potatoes
6️⃣ While the meatloaf bakes, boil the potatoes in salted water for 15-20 minutes, until fork-tender.
7️⃣ Drain and mash the potatoes with butter, milk, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
8️⃣ Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the baked meatloaf layer.
9️⃣ Sprinkle the top with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
Step 5: Bake & Serve
???? Return the casserole to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
1️⃣1️⃣ Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped green onions or parsley, and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
????️ Slice and serve warm with a side of steamed veggies, salad, or garlic bread for the ultimate meal!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 27g
- Sugar: 4g
(Values may vary based on ingredients used.)
Tips & Tricks for the Best Meatloaf Casserole
✅ Use lean ground beef – If using higher-fat beef, drain excess grease before adding the mashed potatoes.
✅ Add extra flavor – Mix in chopped jalapeños, caramelized onions, or mushrooms to the meatloaf layer.
✅ Make it ahead – Assemble the casserole in advance, refrigerate overnight, and bake when ready!
✅ Swap the cheese – Use mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a different cheesy kick.
✅ Make it healthier – Swap cauliflower mash for potatoes for a low-carb version.
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