Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Introduction

If you love classic meatloaf and loaded mashed potatoes, this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mash-up! Imagine a juicy, seasoned meatloaf base topped with creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and loads of melted cheese—it’s like having two comfort food favorites in one dish!

Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family dinners, this casserole is easy to prepare, hearty, and absolutely delicious. If you’re craving rich, cheesy, and satisfying flavors, this is the ultimate meat and potatoes meal for you!

Ingredients (in Grams)

For the Meatloaf Base:

500g ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
1 small onion, finely chopped (100g)
2 cloves garlic, minced
100g breadcrumbs
60ml milk
1 large egg
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon dried oregano
100g shredded cheddar cheese (for extra cheesiness in the meatloaf!)

For the Loaded Mashed Potato Topping:

500g potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and cubed
60g butter
80ml heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
100g sour cream
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
100g shredded cheddar cheese (for mixing in)

For the Topping:

150g shredded cheddar cheese
50g crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Base

Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a 9×9-inch (or similar-sized) baking dish.
In a large bowl, mix ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, and shredded cheddar cheese.
Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the meatloaf is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.

Step 2: Make the Loaded Mashed Potatoes

While the meatloaf bakes, boil the potatoes in salted water for 15-20 minutes, until fork-tender.
Drain and mash the potatoes with butter, heavy cream, sour cream, salt, pepper, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Once the meatloaf is cooked, spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.

Step 4: Bake Until Cheesy & Golden

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for 10-15 more minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Based on 6 Servings)

Calories: 480 kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 34g
Fat: 28g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g

(Note: Nutrition values may vary based on ingredient choices.)

Tips and Tricks

1. Can I Use a Different Meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of beef and pork work well.

2. How to Make It Lower Carb?

Swap potatoes for mashed cauliflower to make a low-carb, keto-friendly version.

3. Want an Extra Flavor Boost?

Add ½ teaspoon of garlic powder and ½ teaspoon of onion powder to the mashed potatoes for even more flavor.

4. Best Way to Store & Reheat?

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 2 minutes.

5. Can I Add Extra Toppings?

Of course! Try adding sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Two comfort food classics in one dish
✅ Perfect for family dinners & meal prep
✅ Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor
✅ Great for freezing & making ahead
✅ Easy to customize with different meats & toppings