Description

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish featuring a ground beef meatloaf base topped with mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon. Perfectly baked to combine savory flavors and creamy textures, it’s an ideal family-friendly dinner that’s easy to prepare and sure to please.

Ingredients

Meatloaf Base

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

Toppings

1/2 cup ketchup (remaining half)
2 cups prepared mashed potatoes
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Make the Meatloaf Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the ketchup. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Form and Bake the Meatloaf Base: Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it to cover the bottom completely. Spread the remaining ketchup on top of the meat layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
Add the Topping: Carefully spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf base. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes, followed by the crumbled cooked bacon.
Bake Again: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly, and the toppings are heated through.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions or chives if desired. Allow to cool slightly before slicing into portions and serving.

Notes

For best results, use freshly prepared mashed potatoes or good quality store-bought mashed potatoes.
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper.
Make sure the meatloaf is cooked through to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
For gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.