Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a comfort food lover’s dream come true! It combines the best parts of meatloaf and a cheesy casserole into one delicious dish. The layers of savory ground beef, creamy cheese, and crispy topping make it an irresistible dinner option for your family or guests. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal or just want something indulgent, this casserole delivers on flavor and satisfaction. Plus, it’s easy to make and comes together in no time, making it perfect for a busy weeknight.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 egg

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1/2 cup onion, chopped

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1 cup mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)

• 1/2 cup green onions, chopped

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tbsp ketchup (optional for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.

3. Shape the beef mixture into a loaf shape and place it into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.

4. Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.

5. While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the cheese topping. In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, crumbled bacon, and mashed potatoes.

6. Once the meatloaf is done baking, remove it from the oven and spread the cheesy mixture over the top.

7. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions. Optionally, drizzle with ketchup for added flavor.

9. Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 servings

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils for a vegetarian take on the casserole.

• Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or the cheesy topping to give it a spicy kick.

• Cheese Variety: Swap out the cheddar cheese for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor.

• Low-carb: Skip the breadcrumbs and mashed potatoes, and instead, use cauliflower rice or zucchini for a low-carb alternative.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef. Keep in mind that the flavor will be a bit lighter, but still delicious.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

3. What can I substitute for breadcrumbs in this recipe?

You can use crushed crackers, oats, or even gluten-free breadcrumbs as a substitute for regular breadcrumbs.

4. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before storing it in the freezer. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes.

5. How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatloaf. It should reach 160°F (71°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

6. Can I use store-bought mashed potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought mashed potatoes work just fine! If you’re in a pinch, using pre-made mashed potatoes can save time.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

It’s not gluten-free as written, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free alternative for the mashed potatoes.

8. Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach to the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

9. What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli for a complete meal.

10. Can I make this recipe without bacon?

Yes, you can skip the bacon if you prefer a bacon-free version or if you’re looking for a lighter option.

Conclusion

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines the hearty flavors of meatloaf with the gooey goodness of cheese and mashed potatoes. It’s easy to make, highly customizable, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. Whether you make it on a busy weeknight or for a special occasion, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.