Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

Looking for the ultimate comfort food recipe that brings together rich, hearty flavors with ooey-gooey melted cheese? This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is the dish you've been searching for! Packed with savory ground beef, crispy bacon, creamy mashed potatoes, and an irresistible cheese topping, this casserole is a delightful twist on the classic meatloaf. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner party, this dish is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Read on for the full recipe, along with tips, substitutions, and expert advice on making the perfect cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole.

What is a Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a layered dish that takes the classic meatloaf and transforms it into a comforting casserole. The base is made from seasoned ground beef, much like a traditional meatloaf, but it's topped with creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and loads of melted cheese. This delicious recipe combines the flavors of a meatloaf and a loaded baked potato into one hearty dish, perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

For the Meatloaf Base:

• 1 ½ pounds of ground beef (80/20 mix) – This provides a perfect balance of flavor and fat for a juicy meatloaf.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped – Adds a touch of sweetness and depth.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Brings a savory aroma to the meat mixture.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meatloaf together for a tender texture.
• 1 egg, beaten – Another essential binding ingredient.
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Adds a rich umami flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – For a subtle tanginess that complements the beef.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for seasoning.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a bit of warmth.

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and chopped – Russets create fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes.
• ¼ cup butter – Gives the mashed potatoes a rich flavor.
• ½ cup milk (or heavy cream for extra richness) – Makes the potatoes silky smooth.
• Salt and pepper to taste – To season the mashed potatoes perfectly.

For the Cheesy Bacon Topping:

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar melts perfectly over the casserole.
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese – Adds a stretchy, gooey element.
• 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled – Provides a smoky crunch.
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives – For a pop of color and freshness.

Substitutions and Variations

While this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is incredible as is, you can make a few tweaks to suit your taste or dietary preferences:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you're looking for a leaner option, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Keep in mind the flavor will be milder, so you may want to increase the seasoning.
• Mashed Cauliflower: For a low-carb version, replace the mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower. You’ll still get that creamy texture with fewer carbs.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the meat with a plant-based ground "meat" option, and use vegetarian bacon or omit it altogether.
• Different Cheeses: You can switch up the cheese topping with other types like Monterey Jack, gouda, or even pepper jack for a bit of spice.
• Spices and Herbs: Add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the meatloaf mixture for a more fragrant flavor, or toss in some chili powder or cayenne for heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onions, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 2: Form and Bake the Meatloaf Base

1. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish or baking pan.
2. Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of the dish, forming a flat layer.
3. Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).

Step 3: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. While the meatloaf base is baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the chopped potatoes.
2. Boil the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk (or heavy cream), and season with salt and pepper. Mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meatloaf layer.
2. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and crumbled bacon over the mashed potatoes.

Step 5: Bake Until Cheesy and Golden

1. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. For a golden-brown finish, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Once the casserole is out of the oven, sprinkle the chopped green onions or chives on top.
2. Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Meatloaf: Be careful not to overmix the meat mixture. This can result in a dense, tough meatloaf. Gently combine the ingredients until they just come together.
• Undercooking the Potatoes: Ensure the potatoes are fully cooked before mashing them. If they are undercooked, the mashed potatoes will have lumps and won’t spread smoothly over the meatloaf.
• Not Draining the Bacon: After cooking the bacon, drain it on paper towels to remove excess grease. This prevents the casserole from becoming too oily.
• Skipping the Resting Time: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

This hearty casserole is best served piping hot, fresh out of the oven. It’s a complete meal in itself, but you can pair it with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or dinner rolls to round out the meal. For a fun and casual vibe, serve it family-style by placing the casserole dish in the center of the table and letting everyone dig in.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

• Rustic Style: Serve directly from the baking dish, allowing guests to see the golden, cheesy topping and colorful garnishes.
• Individual Portions: For a more polished presentation, cut the casserole into neat squares or slices and plate individually. Garnish each serving with extra bacon bits, cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh chives.
• Toppings Bar: Create a “loaded” toppings bar with extras like sour cream, salsa, jalapeños, or avocado for guests to customize their servings.

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf base and mashed potatoes ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge, then assemble and bake the casserole when you're ready to serve.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Assemble it, but don’t bake. Instead, cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as instructed.
• Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or reheat the whole dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
A: Yes, if you're short on time, you can use instant mashed potatoes. However, homemade mashed potatoes provide a creamier, richer flavor that really elevates the casserole.

Q: How can I make this casserole spicier?
A: To add some heat, mix in some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meatloaf mixture. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.

Q: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: Yes, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs in the meatloaf and make sure the Worcestershire sauce you choose is gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is the perfect blend of comfort food classics, combining the flavors of a traditional meatloaf with the creamy goodness of loaded mashed potatoes. With layers of savory meat, fluffy potatoes, and cheesy bacon topping, it’s a dish that’s guaranteed to satisfy. Whether you're looking for a cozy family meal or a dish to impress your friends, this casserole has you covered. Give it a try and prepare to fall in love with your new favorite weeknight dinner!

Print