Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
A delightful twist on traditional meatloaf, this cheesy loaded casserole features layers of savory meat, creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and crispy bacon, making it a perfect comfort dish for any gathering.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup Divided use.
For the Casserole Toppings
- 2 cups prepared mashed potatoes Homemade or store-bought.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives Optional garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or an 8×8-inch dish for a thicker casserole.
Make the Meatloaf
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the ketchup. Mix until well combined.
- Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it to cover the bottom. Spread the remaining ketchup on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the meat is cooked through and no longer pink.
Assemble the Casserole
- Carefully spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, then add the crumbled bacon.
Final Baking
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, and sprinkle with green onions or chives, if desired. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
You can experiment with different types of cheese and add vegetables such as finely diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture.