This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole brings together the rich heartiness of meatloaf with the creamy comfort of loaded mashed potatoes. It’s a true one-pan indulgence.
A mashup of classic comfort foods, this casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners or a crowd-pleasing potluck hit, filled with nostalgic flavors and irresistible cheesy, bacon-packed layers.
Star Players in This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
- Ground beef – The savory, protein-packed foundation, seasoned and juicy, creating the meatloaf base that holds everything together.
- Breadcrumbs – These bind the beef while keeping it tender, adding body without overpowering the flavor.
- Ketchup – Sweet and tangy, used both in the mix and on top for a sticky, caramelized glaze.
- Mashed potatoes – Creamy and fluffy, they form the ultimate comfort-food topping that soaks up all the savory juices.
- Cheddar cheese – Melted into golden perfection, it adds richness and depth with every gooey bite.
- Bacon – Crispy and salty, this topping brings smoky crunch that elevates the casserole.
- Green onions – Optional, but fresh and slightly sharp, they contrast the richness beautifully.
How to Make It: Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole, Step by Step
Start by creating the meatloaf base—mixing seasoned ground beef with breadcrumbs, egg, milk, aromatics, and ketchup. This forms the flavorful bed of the dish.
Press the mixture into a baking dish and bake until it’s just cooked through. Spread more ketchup over the top before baking to seal in flavor.
Once out of the oven, add a generous layer of mashed potatoes, then cover with shredded cheddar and bacon bits.
Pop it back into the oven just long enough to melt the cheese into a bubbly golden crown. Finish with green onions and serve warm.
Comfort Food, Upgraded: Tips and Variations
This casserole thrives on customization. Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken if you’re aiming for a lighter touch. Leftover mashed potatoes work wonderfully, especially if they’re already seasoned.
Try blending in cream cheese or sour cream into the potatoes for extra richness. Want a kick? Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of smoked paprika to the beef mixture.
For a more balanced dish, fold some sautéed spinach or finely chopped broccoli into the potatoes before layering.
Keep It Fresh: Storing & Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15–20 minutes.
For freezing, allow the casserole to cool completely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above for a comforting dinner, anytime.
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Base:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup ketchup divided
- 1 large egg
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon crumbled
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives optional
- 2 cups prepared mashed potatoes homemade or pre-made
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch or 8×8-inch baking dish, depending on desired thickness. In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the ketchup. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared dish, spreading to all edges, and coat the top with the remaining ketchup. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink. Remove from the oven and evenly spread the mashed potatoes over the meatloaf base, then sprinkle the cheddar cheese followed by crumbled bacon. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese has melted and is bubbling. Once baked, remove from the oven and top with green onions or chives if using. Allow to rest briefly before serving.
