This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food! A hearty layer of savory meatloaf is topped with creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and gooey melted cheese for a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, this one-pan meal delivers big on flavor and convenience!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional garnish)
Creamy potatoes, smoky bacon, and melty cheese elevate this classic meatloaf into a casserole that’s hearty, satisfying, and loaded with flavor.
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2️⃣ Prepare Meatloaf Base: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3️⃣ Assemble Casserole: Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish. Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the meat mixture.
4️⃣ Top with Bacon and Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes, followed by the crumbled bacon.
5️⃣ Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the meatloaf is cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F).
6️⃣ Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with sliced green onions if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition (per serving, approx.):
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 15g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 780mg
Tips & Tricks
- Mashed Potato Shortcut: Use store-bought mashed potatoes or instant potatoes for a quick option.
- Add Veggies: Layer in frozen peas or corn between the meatloaf and mashed potatoes for added nutrition.
- Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Bake fresh the next day for an easy dinner.
- Storage: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
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