Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that the whole family will love. This savory casserole combines tender meatloaf topped with creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon. With its rich flavors and cozy presentation, it’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests.
Imagine the delightful aroma filling your kitchen as this casserole bakes to perfection. Each mouthful is a delicious blend of flavors that will make your taste buds sing. In the following sections, you will discover how to prepare this scrumptious dish, learn why you’ll love it, and find useful tips to elevate your cooking experience. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: Made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you can find at any grocery store.
- Ease of Preparation: Quick to assemble and requires minimal hands-on time.
- Nutrition: Packed with protein and can be made with healthier substitutions.
- Versatility: Customizable with different toppings and variations to suit your taste.
- Presentation: A visually appealing dish that will wow your family and friends.
You’re going to love this casserole!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total time: 45-50 minutes
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef
- 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)
- 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)
How To Make Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
- 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.
- 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.
- Carefully spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, then add the crumbled bacon.
- 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.
How to Serve
- Presentation: Serve slices of casserole on vibrant plates for a cheerful look.
- Accompaniments: Pair with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for balance.
- Portions: Cut into generous slices, as this dish is sure to satisfy.
- Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a cold glass of iced tea or a light red wine.
Your family will be asking for seconds!
Additional Tips
- Add some spices like paprika or cayenne for extra flavor.
- Customize with different cheese or vegetables mixed into the meatloaf.
- Serve with a side of gravy or a drizzle of ranch dressing for extra taste.
Recipe Variations
- Barbecue Meatloaf: Replace ketchup with your favorite barbecue sauce for a smoky twist.
- Veggie-Loaded: Mix in finely chopped bell peppers or grated carrots for added nutrition.
- Turkey Casserole: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter option.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Cool completely before freezing. Wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Special Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking dish (9×9-inch or 8×8-inch)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooking spoon for mixing
- Oven mitts
- Kitchen knife for slicing
FAQ’s
- Can I use frozen ingredients?: Yes! Frozen vegetables and pre-cooked bacon can be great time-savers.
- Is this dish healthy?: It can be made healthier by using leaner meat or whole-grain breadcrumbs.
- Can I make it ahead of time?: Absolutely! Prepare everything and bake it when you’re ready.
- Can I customize this recipe?: Yes, you can switch up meats and toppings easily.
- Are there alternative cooking methods?: You can cook the meatloaf in a slow cooker for a set-it-and-forget-it style.
Conclusion
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a delicious dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal time. It delights with its wonderful flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for family dinners or friendly gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is accessible and satisfying. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a warm, flavorful casserole that everyone will love!
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Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
A comforting casserole featuring tender meatloaf topped with creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 1 lb ground beef Can be substituted with ground turkey for a lighter option.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Can use whole-grain breadcrumbs for healthier choice.
- 1 large egg Binder for the meatloaf mixture.
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion Adds flavor.
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce Enhances flavor.
- 1/2 cup ketchup Divided; use half in the meatloaf and half on top.
For Topping
- 2 cups prepared mashed potatoes Homemade or store-bought.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Can substitute with other cheese varieties.
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives Optional for 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.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 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.
Cooking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the meat is cooked through and no longer pink.
- Carefully spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, then add the crumbled bacon.
- 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
Add some spices like paprika or cayenne for extra flavor. Customize with different cheese or vegetables mixed into the meatloaf. Serve with a side of gravy or a drizzle of ranch dressing for extra taste.
