This Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is my family’s favorite comfort food! It’s hearty, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. If you love meatloaf and mashed potatoes, this dish is the perfect mash-up for a cozy dinner. It’s super simple to make, and you can have it on the table in no time. 🍽️✨
Why You’ll Love It
This casserole is everything you need for a filling and delicious meal. It has a savory meatloaf base, creamy mashed potatoes, and a golden, cheesy topping. The best part? It’s all baked together in one dish for ultimate ease. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or anytime you crave something warm and comforting. 🥔🧀❤️
What You’ll Need
For the Meatloaf Base:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 eggs
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked bacon bits (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Base
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Combine until everything is well mixed.
- Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 2: Add the Topping
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf layer. Use a spatula to smooth it out.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the potatoes. If you’re using bacon bits, sprinkle those on too.
Step 3: Bake
- Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the meatloaf layer is cooked through.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with green onions for a fresh touch and serve! Pair it with a simple side salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
More Recommended Recipes:
Fun Variations
- Add Veggies: Mix in some peas or corn with the meatloaf base for added texture.
- Switch the Cheese: Try mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor.
- Make it Lighter: Use ground turkey and light cheese for a healthier twist.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to a day. Bake it when you’re ready to eat.
How do I store leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I freeze it?
Absolutely! Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
This Easy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is one of those meals that brings everyone to the table. It’s simple, hearty, and full of flavor. Try it for dinner this week—I’m sure it’ll be a hit with your family, too! 🍽️💕
Easy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon crumbled
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp mustard
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the meat mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and shape it into a loaf.
- In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread the mixture over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the top is bubbly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the top of the meatloaf and return to the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
