Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

There's nothing quite like a Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole to bring warmth and comfort to your dinner table. Imagine tender, seasoned meatloaf topped with creamy mashed potatoes, gooey melted cheese, and crispy bacon—every bite feels like a hug on a plate.

this Recipe

I first tried this recipe on a chilly weekend when I wanted something hearty but easy to prepare. It was an instant hit, with my family requesting it again before the leftovers were even gone! Perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday dinners, this casserole is as indulgent as it is satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Get ready to make your new favorite comfort food! This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is packed with flavor, easy to assemble, and guaranteed to please the whole family.

First, this recipe combines two classics—meatloaf and loaded mashed potatoes—into one delicious dish. It's like your favorite comfort foods had the ultimate mashup.

Second, it’s incredibly simple to prepare. With minimal prep work and easy-to-find ingredients, this casserole comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for those hectic days when you still want a homemade meal.

It’s also a fantastic way to make dinner more fun! The layers of flavors and textures, from the savory meatloaf base to the cheesy, creamy mashed potatoes, create a delightful eating experience everyone will rave about.

Lastly, this dish is a lifesaver for meal prep. It reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week—or even freeze it for a quick meal later.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole comes from its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each layer brings its own flavor and texture, making every bite irresistible.

• Ground beef: The foundation of the meatloaf layer. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture. Leaner beef can work too, but you may need to add a splash of milk for extra tenderness.
• Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatloaf together while keeping it tender. Panko or seasoned breadcrumbs work well, but gluten-free options are great too if needed.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy and fluffy, they form the top layer of the casserole. You can use homemade mashed potatoes for maximum flavor or opt for a high-quality store-bought version if you’re short on time.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar is perfect for this recipe, adding a gooey, melty finish to the casserole. Feel free to mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for extra cheesiness.
• Bacon: Crumbled crispy bacon is the ultimate topping, adding a smoky crunch that ties the dish together. Turkey bacon or plant-based bacon alternatives can also be used for dietary preferences.

You’ll also need a deep baking dish and a sturdy skillet to prepare the meatloaf mixture. Having a potato masher or hand mixer is helpful for achieving the fluffiest mashed potatoes.

How to Make This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Creating this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps for a mouthwatering result every time.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, prepare the meatloaf layer. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, an egg, minced garlic, diced onion, Worcestershire sauce, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly.

Next, press the meatloaf mixture into the bottom of a greased baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.

While the meatloaf layer bakes, prepare the mashed potatoes. If using fresh potatoes, boil peeled and diced russets in salted water until fork-tender, then mash with butter, milk, and a touch of garlic powder. For store-bought mashed potatoes, simply warm them and stir in a splash of cream for added richness.

Once the meatloaf layer is ready, spread the mashed potatoes evenly on top. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes, followed by crumbled bacon bits.

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Storage Options

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is perfect for leftovers, making it as practical as it is delicious. Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerator: Transfer the casserole to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
• Freezer: For longer storage, cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Meal prep tip: Divide leftovers into single-serving containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

When reheating, add a sprinkle of fresh cheese or a dash of milk to keep the casserole moist and flavorful.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this casserole is its versatility. Here are some creative ways to make it your own:

• Turkey or chicken: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Add a dash of smoked paprika to enhance the flavor.
• Vegetarian version: Replace the meatloaf base with a mixture of lentils, mushrooms, and breadcrumbs for a hearty, plant-based option.
• Loaded potato toppings: Add green onions, sour cream, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing to the top for a fully loaded experience.
• Cheese swaps: Experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, pepper jack, or Swiss for unique flavor profiles.
• Make it spicy: Stir diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the meatloaf mixture or mashed potatoes for a spicy kick.

Feel free to get creative and make this recipe truly your own. The possibilities are endless!

Enjoy serving this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole to your loved ones. It’s a meal guaranteed to become a repeat favorite, packed with all the comfort and deliciousness you could ask for!

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