Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

If you're looking for a hearty, delicious, and satisfying dish that combines the best of comfort foods, you’ve come to the right place. This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole recipe is the perfect blend of savory flavors, cheesy goodness, and a meatloaf base that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing for a gathering, this dish is sure to please. Keep reading to discover how you can create this masterpiece in your own kitchen—your taste buds will thank you!

this Recipe

What is a Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?

A Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a delightful fusion of traditional meatloaf and a loaded baked potato casserole. It starts with a juicy, flavorful meatloaf base, packed with seasonings, breadcrumbs, and ground meat. On top of that, you'll layer mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and loads of cheese for a perfect comfort meal. It’s a creative twist on classic dishes, making it a great addition to your weekly dinner rotation.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Before we dive into the steps of creating this delicious casserole, let's start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make your Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole:

Meatloaf Base:

• 1 ½ pounds of ground beef (80/20 blend works best)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

Loaded Mashed Potato Layer:

• 3 cups mashed potatoes (use leftover mashed potatoes or make them fresh)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup whole milk
• 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon chives (optional)

Topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of a Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is that it’s versatile and can be adjusted to your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some great substitution ideas:

• Meat: Ground turkey or chicken can replace ground beef if you’re looking for a leaner option. Ground pork also works well.
• Cheese: Swap cheddar and mozzarella for your favorite cheese. Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even blue cheese adds a unique flavor.
• Gluten-free: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to cater to a gluten-free diet.
• Vegetarian option: Use plant-based ground meat and vegan cheese to make this dish suitable for vegetarians.
• Lower carb: Use cauliflower mashed potatoes instead of regular mashed potatoes to reduce the carb content.

These variations allow you to personalize this dish while keeping all the savory, cheesy flavors intact.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s get into the exciting part—cooking your Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole. Follow these easy steps to bring the dish together.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Base

1. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed onions and garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Press the meat mixture evenly into the greased baking dish, forming the first layer of your casserole. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it out evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Meatloaf Base

Bake the meatloaf layer in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 4: Prepare the Loaded Mashed Potato Layer

While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the mashed potato layer. If you’re using fresh potatoes, boil them until soft, mash them with butter, garlic powder, sour cream, and milk. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon for extra flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Once the meatloaf base is cooked, remove it from the oven. Spread the mashed potato mixture evenly over the meatloaf layer. Be careful not to press too hard, so the layers stay distinct.

Step 6: Add the Cheese Topping

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes. This is where the cheesy magic happens—feel free to be generous!

Step 7: Bake Again

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. For a crispy cheese topping, you can switch your oven to broil for the last 3-5 minutes.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh pop of color.

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

Cooking a Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is straightforward when you break it down into these easy-to-follow steps:

1. Prepare the meatloaf base: Mix ground beef with seasonings and bake it as the foundation.
2. Make the mashed potato layer: Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with bacon, this layer goes on top.
3. Assemble the casserole: Combine the layers and top it with more cheese.
4. Bake until golden and bubbly: Finish it off in the oven for a cheesy masterpiece.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is simple, there are a few common mistakes you’ll want to avoid:

1. Overmixing the meat: Overworking the meat mixture can result in a tough and dry meatloaf. Mix just until combined.
2. Undercooking the meatloaf layer: Always check the internal temperature of the meatloaf before adding the mashed potato layer to ensure it's fully cooked.
3. Too dry mashed potatoes: Adding enough butter, sour cream, and milk ensures your mashed potatoes are creamy and don’t dry out when baked.
4. Skipping the cheese: The cheese is essential for both flavor and texture. Don’t skimp on it!

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation and serving can take your Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole from good to great. Here’s how to make your dish even more impressive:

• Garnish with fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or chives add a burst of color and flavor.
• Serve hot: This casserole is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the cheese is still melty and gooey.
• Accompany with sides: Pair it with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli to add balance to the meal.

How to Serve Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

To serve this comforting dish, slice it into large squares and use a spatula to lift each piece onto individual plates. Because the casserole has distinct layers of meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and cheese, every bite will offer a delicious combination of textures and flavors.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

You can add a bit of flair to your Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole presentation by:

• Serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a more personalized touch.
• Adding a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle of extra bacon on top of each slice for added decadence.
• Drizzling a bit of hot sauce or BBQ sauce for those who enjoy a spicy kick.

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe Tips

Here are some additional tips to perfect your Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole:

• Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, bake it until bubbly and heated through.
• Freeze for later: This casserole freezes well. Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Simply reheat in the oven until warmed through.
• Double the recipe: If you’re feeding a crowd or want leftovers, consider doubling the recipe and using a larger baking dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, simply bake it as directed.

Q: Can I freeze Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?
Absolutely. You can freeze the entire casserole or individual portions. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until warm.

Q: What other meats can I use instead of beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even a mixture of meats can work beautifully in this casserole.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining a juicy meatloaf base with creamy mashed potatoes, bacon, and loads of melted cheese. Whether you're preparing for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish will satisfy every craving. With plenty of room for variations and easy-to-follow instructions, this casserole is a must-try for any home cook. Happy cooking, and enjoy your cheesy masterpiece!

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