Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

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When I first made this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole, I knew I had struck comfort food gold. There’s something so heartwarming about a classic meatloaf, but when you load it up with layers of creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon, it becomes irresistible. It’s like your favorite diner dinner, elevated to a level that makes it totally dinner-party-worthy.

This casserole was born out of a weeknight craving for something cozy yet satisfying. I wanted that homey meatloaf flavor without the dry texture and long wait. Layering the seasoned meat with a blanket of buttery mashed potatoes and finishing it off with loads of cheese created a dish that hits every note of comfort. It’s warm, savory, cheesy, and has a crunch that pulls it all together.

One of the best parts? It’s an entire meal in a single dish. You get protein, carbs, and veggies if you sneak in some peas or chopped spinach. It’s just as good for family dinners as it is for potlucks or make-ahead meals. Plus, it reheats beautifully. If you enjoy meals like Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts or Shipwreck Dinner, you’ll love the rich, savory layers in this one.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

This dish delivers all the comfort food elements in one satisfying bite. It’s quick to prep, kid-approved, and a great way to stretch ground beef into a hearty dinner. You can customize the toppings, make it ahead, and it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole is a dependable go-to that never disappoints.

Ingredients

Ground beef is the base of this dish, offering a hearty and flavorful foundation. Mashed potatoes form the creamy top layer, adding a soft contrast to the meat. Cheddar cheese melts into a bubbly, golden layer that ties everything together with gooey richness. Crispy bacon adds crunch and smokiness, enhancing each bite with irresistible flavor. Green onions lend a pop of color and a fresh bite, balancing the richness. A mix of eggs, breadcrumbs, and seasonings helps the meat layer stay moist and packed with flavor.

How to Make Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Base

Start by combining ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, diced onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix just until everything is incorporated without overworking the meat.

Step 2: Bake the Meatloaf Layer

Spread the meat mixture evenly into a greased baking dish and bake at 375°F for about 25 minutes or until it’s fully cooked and firm to the touch.

Step 3: Layer the Mashed Potatoes

Once the meat layer is done, spread a generous layer of warm, creamy mashed potatoes on top. You can use freshly made or leftover mashed potatoes.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Bacon

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes. Add a generous handful of cooked, crumbled bacon for extra flavor.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped green onions just before serving for a fresh crunch and added flavor. Let it cool slightly, then slice and enjoy!

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

You can easily adapt this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole to your preferences or dietary needs. For a leaner version, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. If you’re avoiding dairy, use a plant-based cheese and mashed cauliflower in place of the traditional ingredients. For a low-carb spin, try mashed turnips or rutabaga instead of potatoes. Adding veggies like spinach, peas, or corn directly into the meat layer is a great way to boost the nutrition.

Switch up the cheese to suit your flavor preferences – Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack can bring different vibes to the dish. Don’t have bacon on hand? Crumbled sausage or even chopped mushrooms can mimic that savory punch.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve this casserole as a standalone meal or alongside a crisp green salad for freshness. A side of roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots works well too. For drinks, a glass of red wine or a bold iced tea pairs nicely with the savory richness.

It’s a hearty main dish, so keep sides light to balance the meal. Try garlic bread or a buttery dinner roll if you’re feeding a crowd and want to stretch the servings.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes or microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

This casserole also freezes well. Let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole up to the cheese layer, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, bake until bubbly and heated through.

What kind of potatoes work best for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes make the creamiest mashed topping. Leftover mashed potatoes also work great here.

Can I freeze Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?

Definitely. It freezes beautifully. Just make sure it’s tightly wrapped and cooled completely before placing it in the freezer.

How can I add vegetables to Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?

Mix finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or shredded carrots into the meat layer or mashed potatoes. They blend in easily and add extra nutrients.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you loved this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole, don’t miss out on Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta or the ultra-satisfying Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. Both are rich, cheesy, and perfect for dinner when you want comfort on a plate. Another dish worth exploring is the Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole for a bold, flavor-packed variation.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Make sure to pin this recipe for later on your Pinterest board so it’s easy to find the next time you’re craving cozy comfort food. If you know someone who would love this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole, don’t keep it to yourself – share it on Facebook, text it to a friend, or even send it in an email. It’s a recipe that deserves to be passed around and enjoyed by everyone.

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