There's nothing more comforting than a hearty Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole bubbling away in the oven. This dish combines the savory flavors of classic meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and all the loaded baked potato toppings you could dream of.

I discovered this recipe during a stretch of busy weeknights when I wanted something quick, filling, and loved by everyone at the table. It’s a surefire crowd-pleaser, whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Get ready to embrace a dish that's everything you love about comfort food, all rolled into one casserole pan. Here’s why this recipe is bound to be a household favorite:

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With a few simple steps and minimal prep time, you can have a complete meal ready to pop in the oven. Perfect for busy nights when you don’t want to juggle multiple pots and pans.

Second, it’s packed with bold, satisfying flavors. The tender meatloaf base is seasoned to perfection, while the creamy mashed potato layer brings a buttery richness. Topped with gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions, every bite is a flavor explosion.

This casserole is also highly customizable. Whether you need a gluten-free option, want to lighten it up, or swap out ingredients based on what’s in your pantry, this recipe adapts beautifully.

Finally, it’s family-friendly and meal-prep approved. The leftovers (if there are any!) taste just as amazing the next day, making it ideal for reheating or packing up for lunch.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to this casserole’s magic lies in its thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish shine:

Ground Beef: The heart of the meatloaf base, ground beef provides a rich, savory flavor. Choose 80/20 for the perfect balance of moisture and flavor.
Breadcrumbs and Egg: These classic binders keep the meatloaf firm yet tender. Panko breadcrumbs work beautifully, but regular ones or gluten-free alternatives also do the trick.
Mashed Potatoes: For the second layer, you can use homemade mashed potatoes or save time with store-bought. Yukon Golds deliver a buttery texture if you’re making them from scratch.
Cheddar Cheese: Nothing beats the meltability of sharp cheddar for this recipe. Feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or mozzarella for extra cheesy goodness.
Bacon: Cooked, crispy bacon adds a smoky, salty kick to the topping. A great shortcut is using pre-cooked bacon crumbles.
Green Onions: These bring a fresh, bright contrast to the richness of the casserole. Add them right before serving for maximum flavor.

You’ll also need a 9x13-inch baking dish, plus a large mixing bowl for combining the meatloaf ingredients. A potato masher or hand mixer will come in handy if you're making mashed potatoes from scratch.

How to Make This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

This recipe comes together in a few simple steps, making it as convenient as it is delicious. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Base

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and your favorite seasonings like garlic powder and onion powder. Spread this mixture evenly into the bottom of your greased baking dish, pressing it down firmly.

Step 2: Add the Mashed Potato Layer

If you’re using homemade mashed potatoes, whip them up with butter, cream, salt, and pepper to taste. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf layer, smoothing the surface with a spatula.

Step 3: Top with Cheese and Bacon

Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes, followed by crispy bacon pieces. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the meatloaf is cooked through.

Step 4: Finish and Garnish

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to let the cheese melt and bubble. Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh finishing touch.

This casserole takes about 45 minutes from start to finish, and your kitchen will smell incredible as it bakes.

Storage Options

One of the best things about this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is how well it stores. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the casserole has cooled completely before transferring it to the fridge.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the entire casserole dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or portion it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispy top, uncover for the last few minutes of reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This casserole is wonderfully versatile, so don’t be afraid to get creative! Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Make it Lighter: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken, and use Greek yogurt in the mashed potatoes for a healthier twist.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure any store-bought mashed potatoes or sauces are certified gluten-free.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the meatloaf base with a hearty lentil or black bean mixture for a plant-based alternative.
Extra Veggies: Add a layer of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach between the meatloaf and mashed potatoes for added nutrients.
Spicy Twist: Mix a little hot sauce or cayenne pepper into the meatloaf mixture, and use pepper jack cheese for the topping.

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a true celebration of comfort food. Whether you follow the recipe to the letter or add your own creative spin, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite. So grab your casserole dish, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate crowd-pleaser!