Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

If you love classic meatloaf and are a fan of cheesy, comforting casseroles, then this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is the perfect recipe for you. This dish takes traditional meatloaf to the next level by layering it with mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and plenty of gooey melted cheese. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this recipe delivers both flavor and comfort in every bite. Read on to find out how to make this delicious casserole, including tips, substitutions, and variations!

What is Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a delicious twist on the classic meatloaf dish. Instead of serving meatloaf in a traditional loaf shape, this recipe turns it into a layered casserole. Ground beef is seasoned and formed into the meatloaf base, which is then topped with creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheese. Think of it as a cross between a meatloaf and a loaded baked potato, combining all the best comfort foods in one dish. The result is a cheesy, savory, and filling casserole that's perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

To make this irresistible Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Meatloaf Base:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef: Use lean ground beef (85/15) for a balance of flavor and juiciness.
• 1 small onion, finely diced: Adds sweetness and texture to the meatloaf.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: For an extra layer of flavor.
• 1 egg: Helps bind the meatloaf together.
• ½ cup breadcrumbs: Gives the meatloaf structure.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: For depth and umami flavor.
• ¼ cup ketchup: Adds moisture and a slight tang.
• 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon): For a hint of sharpness.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a subtle herby note.
• 1 teaspoon salt: To season the meat mixture.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: For mild heat and seasoning.

For the Mashed Potato Layer:

• 3 cups mashed potatoes: Use leftover mashed potatoes or make them fresh (see tips below).
• ¼ cup sour cream: Adds creaminess to the mashed potatoes.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Makes the potatoes extra rich and smooth.
• Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning the mashed potatoes.

For the Topping:

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: You can also use a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled: Adds crunch and salty goodness.
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives: For a fresh garnish.

Substitutions and Variations

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is incredibly flexible, so feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Substitutions:

• Ground turkey or chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Gluten-free breadcrumbs: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.
• Cauliflower mash: For a low-carb version, replace the mashed potatoes with cauliflower mash.

Variations:

• Vegetarian version: Use a plant-based ground meat substitute like Beyond Meat or lentils for a meatless option.
• Extra veggies: Add finely diced vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to the meatloaf base for more nutrition and flavor.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meatloaf for a spicy twist.
• BBQ twist: Replace the ketchup with barbecue sauce for a sweet, tangy flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s break down how to make this mouthwatering Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole step by step:

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Base

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together using your hands or a wooden spoon until well combined, but do not overmix.
3. Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of the greased casserole dish, forming an even layer. Set aside while you prepare the mashed potatoes.

Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. If you are making mashed potatoes from scratch, peel and chop about 4-5 medium potatoes. Boil them in salted water for 15-20 minutes or until fork-tender, then drain.
2. Mash the potatoes with ¼ cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons butter, and season with salt and pepper to taste. The potatoes should be smooth and creamy.
3. If you are using leftover mashed potatoes, warm them up slightly and mix in the sour cream and butter to make them extra creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf layer in the casserole dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes.
3. Add the crumbled bacon on top of the cheese.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to fully melt and turn golden brown.
3. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Before serving, garnish the casserole with chopped green onions or chives for a fresh, colorful finish.
2. Serve slices of the cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

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

1. Preheat oven and mix the ground beef with seasoning and breadcrumbs to form the meatloaf base.
2. Press the meat mixture into a greased casserole dish.
3. Prepare or warm the mashed potatoes and spread them over the meatloaf.
4. Top with cheese, bacon, and bake for 25-30 minutes.
5. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the meatloaf: Overworking the meat mixture can result in a tough and dense texture. Mix until just combined.
• Not draining the mashed potatoes: If you're making mashed potatoes from scratch, make sure to drain them well before mashing to avoid a watery texture.
• Not letting the casserole rest: After baking, let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate the presentation and round out the meal with a few simple sides.

How to Serve Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole:

• Serve slices of the casserole with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables like green beans or carrots for a balanced meal.
• Pair it with garlic bread or dinner rolls for an extra indulgent experience.
• Offer a side of gravy or ketchup for dipping, depending on your preference.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole:

• Garnish each serving with additional crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
• Serve the casserole family-style in the middle of the table for everyone to help themselves.
• For individual servings, cut the casserole into neat squares and plate them with a garnish of green onions and a dollop of sour cream.

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just cover it with foil and bake when you’re ready to serve.
• Double the recipe: For a larger crowd, double the ingredients and bake in two 9x13-inch casserole dishes. It’s great for feeding a group or for meal prepping leftovers.
• Leftovers: Leftovers reheat beautifully. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze individual portions for easy future meals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I freeze Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole! Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake according to the recipe instructions.

How can I make this casserole healthier?

To make this dish lighter, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, swap the mashed potatoes for mashed cauliflower, and use reduced-fat cheese and sour cream.

What sides go well with this casserole?

Roasted or steamed vegetables, a green salad, or even garlic bread pair well with this cheesy casserole.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole combines all the flavors of a classic meatloaf with the comfort and indulgence of a loaded baked potato. With layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and crispy bacon, it’s the ultimate comfort food that will satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re making this for a cozy family dinner or prepping ahead for a busy week, this casserole is sure to become a go-to favorite. Now that you have all the tips and steps to create this delicious dish, it’s time to get cooking!

Grab your ingredients and enjoy the cheesy, meaty, and comforting goodness of this loaded meatloaf casserole!

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