Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

Looking for a deliciously comforting dinner that’s sure to please everyone at the table? Look no further than this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole! This dish takes classic meatloaf to the next level by adding layers of creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and melty cheese, making it a surefire hit for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress. The best part? It's easy to make, packed with flavor, and provides that perfect blend of savory goodness and cheesy comfort. Read on to discover the ultimate recipe for a dinner your family will request again and again!

What is Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a combination of traditional meatloaf and loaded mashed potatoes, all baked together in one comforting, indulgent dish. The bottom layer consists of a seasoned, juicy meatloaf mixture, while the top layers include fluffy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon bits, and gooey melted cheese. It’s an all-in-one dinner that brings together the best elements of two classic comfort foods.

Unlike a standard meatloaf, this casserole transforms the dish by combining it with some of our favorite toppings. The creamy mashed potatoes act as the perfect partner for the meatloaf, while the cheese and bacon give it that irresistible loaded flavor we all crave. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize to your preferences, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

To create this flavorful dish, you'll need a combination of ingredients for both the meatloaf base and the loaded potato topping. Here's what you need:

Meatloaf Base:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular work great)
• 1 egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)

Toppings:

• 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared in advance or use store-bought for convenience)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
• 6 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons sour cream (optional, for creamier mashed potatoes)
• 2 tablespoons butter (for mashed potatoes)
• Chopped green onions or chives (for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to customize it based on your tastes and what you have on hand. Here are some common substitutions and variations:

• Ground Meat: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a meatless ground beef alternative if you want to make this dish lighter or vegetarian.
• Cheese: While cheddar is classic, you can try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist.
• Toppings: Add jalapeños for a kick, or swap bacon for turkey bacon if you're looking for a healthier option. You could also add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra flavor.
• Mashed Potatoes: For a lower-carb option, try using mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes. You can also mix in garlic or cream cheese for even creamier mashed potatoes.
• Breadcrumbs: If you're gluten-free, swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how you can make your Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole step-by-step:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large casserole dish or 9x13 baking dish lightly with oil or non-stick spray.
2. Prepare the meatloaf mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, garlic, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix everything together until well combined but avoid over-mixing as that can make the meatloaf tough.
3. Form the base layer: Press the meatloaf mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to form the bottom layer of the casserole.
4. Bake the meatloaf: Place the dish in the oven and bake the meatloaf for about 25-30 minutes, or until it’s cooked through (an internal temperature of 160°F/71°C for ground beef).
5. Prepare the mashed potatoes: While the meatloaf is baking, prepare your mashed potatoes if you haven't already. If you're making them from scratch, mash boiled potatoes with butter, sour cream, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
6. Assemble the casserole: Once the meatloaf is done baking, carefully spread the mashed potatoes over the meatloaf layer. Next, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the potatoes, followed by the crumbled bacon.
7. Bake again: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions or chives for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

How to Cook Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and prepare your baking dish.
2. Mix all the meatloaf ingredients in a bowl and press into the bottom of the dish.
3. Bake the meatloaf until it's cooked through, about 25-30 minutes.
4. Prepare mashed potatoes, then spread them over the cooked meatloaf.
5. Top with cheese and bacon, and return to the oven for 10-15 minutes.
6. Garnish with green onions or chives before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Meat: Overworking the meat mixture can result in a dense and tough texture. Mix the ingredients until just combined for a tender meatloaf.
• Undercooking the Meatloaf: Make sure the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for beef or 165°F (74°C) for ground turkey.
• Runny Mashed Potatoes: If the mashed potatoes are too watery, they can seep into the meatloaf layer. Make sure to use thick, creamy mashed potatoes for the best texture.
• Skipping the Cheese Layer: The melted cheese helps hold everything together and adds a delicious richness to the dish, so don’t skimp on it!

Serving and Presentation Tips

To make your Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole even more enticing, you can serve it with a few extra touches that will impress your guests. Serve this casserole alongside a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli to add color and balance to the richness of the dish. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream on top for an extra creamy finish, or drizzle a little BBQ sauce for a smoky-sweet contrast.

How to Serve Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Serve this casserole hot, fresh out of the oven. Use a large serving spoon to scoop portions onto individual plates. You can also cut the casserole into squares for more even portions. This dish pairs beautifully with a light, crisp salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal. If you’re feeling indulgent, consider adding a side of buttery dinner rolls to soak up all the delicious flavors.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

For a visually appealing presentation, garnish the casserole with chopped chives or green onions before serving. You can also add a sprinkle of extra bacon or cheese on top if desired. Serving the casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions is a great option for dinner parties, making it feel extra special.

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf base and mashed potatoes ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake the casserole. This can save you time on busy nights.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Simply assemble, cover tightly, and freeze before the second bake. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven for a quick and delicious meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes for convenience, but for the best flavor, homemade mashed potatoes are recommended.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf and mashed potatoes ahead of time, refrigerate, and assemble before baking when you're ready.

Q: What’s the best cheese to use for this recipe?
A: Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack for added flavor.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole combines the heartiness of a classic meatloaf with the creamy, cheesy indulgence of loaded mashed potatoes. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish that brings comfort and flavor to the dinner table. Whether you’re serving it for a family meal or making it ahead for a gathering, this casserole is sure to impress. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness of this ultimate comfort food!

Print