Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole combines all your favorite comfort food flavors in one hearty dish. The base is a flavorful meatloaf layer made with ground beef and pork, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon. This casserole is easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd, whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck gathering. Serve hot, garnished with fresh green onions for a satisfying and delicious meal.
Bring a new twist to classic comfort food with this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole. Featuring a savory meatloaf base, creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and crispy bacon, this hearty dish is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, it’s as satisfying as it is easy to make.
INGREDIENTS
- Ground Beef: 1 lb, for a rich, savory base
- Ground Pork: 1/2 lb, to add flavor and texture
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped for extra flavor
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup, to bind the meatloaf
- Milk: 1/2 cup, for moisture
- Egg: 1 large, to hold the mixture together
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tbsp, for a depth of flavor
- Salt: 2 tsp, for seasoning
- Black Pepper: 1 tsp, to taste
- Garlic Powder: 1 tsp, for extra flavor
- Mashed Potatoes: 2 cups, creamy and ready-made or freshly mashed
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup shredded, for the topping
- Bacon: 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled, for a crispy topping
- Green Onions: 1/4 cup chopped, for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Step 2:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until just combined.
- Step 3:
- Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Step 4:
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf layer, smoothing the surface.
- Step 5:
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes, then top with crumbled bacon and chopped green onions.
- Step 6:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the meat is cooked through.
- Step 7:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve warm, garnished with extra green onions for a pop of freshness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Helpful Notes
- Swap out ground pork for turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- Add your favorite spices or herbs to the meatloaf for a personal touch.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Marie suggests adding a layer of sautéed mushrooms between the meatloaf and mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
- Chef Alex recommends using smoked cheddar for a richer, more robust topping.