Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

Looking for the ultimate comfort food? This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a game-changer, combining the rich flavors of a classic meatloaf with the decadence of a loaded potato casserole. Juicy, seasoned ground beef forms the base, while creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and loads of melted cheese take this dish to the next level. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you just need a comforting, cheesy meal, this casserole is easy to make and guaranteed to satisfy.

Keep reading for step-by-step instructions, helpful variations, and tips to make this crowd-pleasing dish at home.

this Recipe

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What is a Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a delicious mashup of two classic comfort foods: meatloaf and loaded mashed potatoes. The base of the casserole consists of seasoned ground beef mixed with breadcrumbs and eggs, just like a traditional meatloaf. It’s then topped with creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheese, creating a rich and satisfying dish that’s packed with flavor and texture. It’s like having a full meatloaf dinner, but in one easy-to-serve casserole!

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Ingredients List for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this indulgent casserole:

For the Meatloaf Base:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80-85% lean)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• ¼ cup milk (to moisten the breadcrumbs)
• 1 large egg (lightly beaten)
• 1 small onion (finely diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Toppings:

• 4 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend like cheddar and mozzarella)
• ½ cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 4 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
• 2 green onions (sliced, for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, to brush on top)

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Substitutions and Variations

This casserole is incredibly versatile, and you can easily adjust the ingredients to fit your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas:

• Meat: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter option. You can also use a combination of ground meats like beef and pork for added richness.
• Potatoes: If you don’t have time to make mashed potatoes from scratch, you can use store-bought mashed potatoes or even instant mashed potatoes. For a lower-carb version, use mashed cauliflower.
• Cheese: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to use any cheese that melts well, like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or gouda. You can also sprinkle some Parmesan on top for extra flavor.
• Bacon: For a healthier option, use turkey bacon. If you want to go meatless, you can skip the bacon entirely or replace it with sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions.
• Vegetables: Add some hidden veggies to the meatloaf base, such as grated carrots or zucchini, to boost the nutritional content without altering the flavor.
• Spices: Customize the flavor profile with different spices. For example, add Italian seasoning for an herby kick, or use smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, diced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined, but don’t overmix—this can make the meatloaf tough.

2. Press the Meatloaf into a Baking Dish

Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or casserole dish. Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of the dish, spreading it out to create a firm base layer. You can use a spatula or your hands to make sure it's evenly distributed.

3. Bake the Meatloaf Layer

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake the meatloaf for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s mostly cooked through (it will continue to cook once the potatoes and cheese are added). Remove from the oven and set aside.

4. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the meatloaf is baking, prepare your mashed potatoes. If you’re making them from scratch, peel and boil 4-5 medium potatoes until tender, then mash them with butter, milk, and salt to taste. If you’re using pre-made mashed potatoes, warm them up and stir in the sour cream for extra creaminess.

5. Layer the Mashed Potatoes and Cheese

Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf layer. Make sure to cover the entire surface. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.

6. Add Bacon and Extra Cheese

Top the casserole with the crumbled bacon and the remaining ½ cup of cheese. You can also dot the top with butter for added richness, or sprinkle some freshly ground black pepper for extra flavor.

7. Bake the Casserole

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, and the edges of the mashed potatoes are slightly golden. If you like a crispy top, you can turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking—just be sure to watch it closely so it doesn’t burn.

8. Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions or fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!

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

Step 1: Making the Meatloaf Base

The base of the casserole is essentially a flat meatloaf. Mix the ground beef with breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings to create a flavorful foundation. Press it evenly into the baking dish and bake it until almost cooked through.

Step 2: Preparing the Toppings

While the meatloaf is baking, make or heat up your mashed potatoes. Adding sour cream to the mashed potatoes gives them an extra creamy, tangy flavor that complements the savory meatloaf.

Step 3: Layering the Potatoes and Cheese

After the meatloaf base is baked, layer the mashed potatoes on top and sprinkle with cheese. For the best results, use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella—cheddar for sharpness and mozzarella for a melty, gooey texture.

Step 4: Adding the Bacon and Baking Again

Crispy bacon is sprinkled on top before the final bake, adding a salty, smoky crunch. You can also add extra cheese at this stage for a golden, bubbly finish.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the Meatloaf: When mixing the ground beef, avoid overworking the mixture. This can lead to a dense, tough texture. Mix just until everything is combined.
2. Undercooking the Meatloaf: Make sure the meatloaf base is mostly cooked before adding the mashed potatoes and cheese. This ensures that it cooks through completely by the time the casserole is done.
3. Soggy Potatoes: If you're making mashed potatoes from scratch, make sure to drain them well before mashing to avoid watery potatoes. You want the mashed potatoes to be creamy, not runny.
4. Not Crisping the Top: For a perfect finish, don’t be afraid to broil the casserole for a couple of minutes at the end to get a crispy, golden top.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a filling, one-dish meal, but you can make it even more special with the right sides and presentation.

How to Serve Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

• Side Dishes: Serve this casserole with a side of green vegetables to balance the richness. Steamed broccoli, green beans, or a fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette are great options.
• Garnishes: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving. For extra flavor, you can also drizzle the top with a bit of barbecue sauce or ranch dressing.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

• Family-Style: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for a rustic, family-style presentation. Garnish with fresh green onions or herbs for color.
• Individual Portions: For a more formal presentation, spoon the casserole onto individual plates and serve with a side of vegetables or a slice of crusty bread.
• Crispy Topping: If you like a crunchy top, sprinkle some buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before the final bake for a crispy, golden crust.

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Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients

: Freshly grated cheese will melt better than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents. Fresh garlic and onions will also give the meatloaf base more flavor.

• Make Ahead: You can prepare this casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. If baking from cold, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the bake time.
• Freeze for Later: This casserole freezes well. Assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a little extra time to the bake time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I freeze Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?

Absolutely. You can freeze the fully assembled casserole (before baking) for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, if you’re short on time, instant mashed potatoes work well for this recipe. You can stir in sour cream or butter to give them a homemade taste.

What other toppings can I add?

Feel free to get creative with the toppings! Try adding caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or even jalapeños for extra flavor. You can also sprinkle some crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

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Conclusion

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a true comfort food masterpiece. Combining the savory flavors of classic meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and melty cheese, it’s a dish that’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Whether you're feeding a hungry family, hosting a casual dinner party, or just craving something hearty and delicious, this casserole is the perfect choice. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead and freezes well, making it a convenient go-to meal for any occasion. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the ultimate cheesy, loaded casserole!

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