Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

If you're looking for a dish that combines the heartiness of a meatloaf with the rich, creamy goodness of a loaded casserole, then you're in the right place! This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is the perfect fusion of flavors, textures, and comfort. Packed with ground beef, cheesy mashed potatoes, and topped with crispy bacon and gooey cheese, this dish is a family favorite that’s easy to make and even easier to devour. Read on to discover how to make this ultimate comfort food, and get ready to wow everyone at the dinner table.

What Is Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?

A Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is essentially a layered dish that brings together the best of both worlds: a flavorful meatloaf base and a loaded mashed potato topping. The base is made of seasoned ground beef, and the topping is a creamy mixture of mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, bacon, and sometimes even sour cream or green onions. Think of it as a hearty, meat-filled casserole with all the fixings of a loaded baked potato, baked together into one irresistible dish. Intrigued? Keep reading for the complete recipe!

Ingredients List for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Before you begin, gather all your ingredients to ensure smooth sailing in the kitchen. Here’s what you'll need:

For the Meatloaf Base:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (preferably 80/20)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup ketchup or BBQ sauce (for topping the meatloaf layer)

For the Loaded Mashed Potato Topping:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup whole milk
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

While the classic Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to tweak the recipe based on dietary needs or ingredient availability. Here are some ideas:

• Ground Meat Variations: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different flavor profile or to reduce fat content.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free butter, milk, and cheese substitutes for a lactose-free version. Coconut milk works well for creaminess.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the meatloaf base with a combination of lentils, chickpeas, or plant-based ground meat for a veggie-friendly option.
• Spice It Up: Add a little heat by mixing in chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture.
• Extra Veggies: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the meatloaf for added texture and nutrition.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you've got your ingredients ready and your options for substitutions in mind, it’s time to dive into the cooking process. This dish is divided into two main components: the meatloaf base and the mashed potato topping.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf Base

Transfer the meatloaf mixture into the prepared baking dish. Press it down to form an even layer across the bottom. Spread the ketchup or BBQ sauce evenly over the top of the meat mixture for added flavor and moisture.

Step 4: Cook the Potatoes

While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the mashed potatoes. In a large pot, add the cubed potatoes and enough water to cover them by about an inch. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 10-15 minutes.

Step 5: Mash the Potatoes

Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the sour cream, milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and half of the crumbled bacon.

Step 6: Layer the Casserole

Once the meatloaf base has baked for about 25 minutes, remove it from the oven. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meatloaf layer. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the rest of the crumbled bacon over the potatoes.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you want a golden, crispy top, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes—just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped green onions for added color and flavor, and serve warm.

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

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease your baking dish.
2. Prepare the meatloaf mixture by combining ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, seasonings, egg, and milk.
3. Press the meatloaf mixture into the baking dish and top with ketchup or BBQ sauce.
4. Bake the meatloaf while boiling and mashing potatoes with butter, sour cream, cheese, and bacon.
5. Layer the mashed potatoes over the baked meatloaf, top with cheese and bacon, and bake until golden and bubbly.
6. Let it rest, garnish with green onions, and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Meatloaf: This can result in a tough, dense meatloaf. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
• Undercooking the Potatoes: Make sure the potatoes are fully tender before mashing to avoid lumps.
• Not Draining the Potatoes: Excess water in your mashed potatoes will make them runny. Drain thoroughly before mashing.
• Skipping the Resting Period: Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking helps the layers set and makes slicing easier.

Serving and Presentation Tips

The Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a visually impressive dish that tastes just as good as it looks. For the best presentation:

• Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh green onions on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.
• Use a serrated knife to neatly slice through the casserole layers without making a mess.

How to Serve Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Serve generous slices of this casserole alongside simple sides like steamed vegetables or a garden salad. It’s also delicious with a dollop of extra sour cream or a drizzle of BBQ sauce for added flavor.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

For an eye-catching presentation, consider baking the casserole in individual ramekins. This way, each person gets their own personal portion, complete with perfectly browned cheesy tops. Another idea is to pipe the mashed potatoes onto the meatloaf layer using a piping bag for a more elegant, decorative finish.

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe Tips

• Pre-cook your bacon to ensure it stays crispy when added to the casserole.
• Use Yukon Gold potatoes for extra creamy mashed potatoes—they’re naturally buttery and perfect for mashing.
• Customize the cheese by trying out different varieties like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for a unique twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
2. Can I freeze the casserole?
   Absolutely! Once fully assembled (but before the final bake), wrap the dish tightly and freeze. When you’re ready to eat, bake from frozen at 350°F for about an hour, or until heated through.
3. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
   While homemade mashed potatoes are best for flavor and texture, instant potatoes can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to add extra butter, milk, and sour cream to enrich the flavor.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food dish that will satisfy even the hungriest of appetites. Combining the rich flavors of a meatloaf base with creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes and crispy bacon, this dish is both indulgent and easy to make. Whether you're feeding a family or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. Try it out, and don’t forget to experiment with variations to make it your own!

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