Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

If you love comfort food with a cheesy twist, you're in for a treat with this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe! This dish combines the savory goodness of classic meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, and gooey melted cheese, all in one casserole. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week. So, get ready to dive into a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Keep reading to find out exactly how to make this mouth-watering casserole that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

What is a Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?

A Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a layered dish that combines traditional meatloaf ingredients with indulgent toppings like mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, and bacon bits. It takes the classic meatloaf recipe up a notch by adding layers of creamy mashed potatoes and a generous amount of cheese, resulting in a deliciously rich and hearty meal. Think of it as a combination of two comfort food staples—meatloaf and mashed potatoes—coming together in one irresistible casserole dish!

Ingredients List for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

To make this savory and cheesy casserole, you'll need the following ingredients:

For the Meatloaf Base:

• 1 ½ lbs of ground beef (80% lean)
• ½ lb ground pork (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (or panko)
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)

For the Mashed Potato Layer:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tablespoon butter
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup milk (or more, if needed)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheesy Topping:

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup cooked bacon bits (optional but highly recommended)
• 2 green onions, finely chopped (optional for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

There are endless possibilities to customize this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole based on your taste preferences or dietary needs:

1. Meat Substitutions: You can swap ground beef and pork for ground turkey or chicken to make a leaner version. You could also use a meatless substitute like plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
2. Potato Variations: If you want to cut back on carbs, consider using mashed cauliflower instead of mashed potatoes. You can also use sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet and healthier twist.
3. Cheese Options: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can switch it up with other cheese varieties like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses. If you're looking for extra creaminess, adding some cream cheese into the mashed potatoes is a great option.
4. Gluten-Free: If you need a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats in the meatloaf mixture.
5. Additional Veggies: To make this dish even more nutritious, add some finely chopped veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the meatloaf base. You can also add vegetables to the mashed potato layer, such as roasted garlic or sautéed onions.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients and considered any substitutions or variations, let’s dive into the cooking process! Here’s how to make this delicious Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole step-by-step.

How to Cook Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or casserole pan and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using). Mix everything together with your hands or a spatula until well combined, but don’t overmix to avoid tough meatloaf.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

Press the meatloaf mixture into the bottom of the greased baking dish, creating an even layer. You want it to be about 1 to 1 ½ inches thick.

Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the meatloaf is almost cooked through but still slightly pink in the center. It will continue cooking later, so no need to cook it fully just yet.

Step 5: Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the meatloaf is baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the peeled and cubed potatoes and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, sour cream, and milk, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the potatoes seem too thick, you can add a little more milk.

Step 6: Layer the Mashed Potatoes

Once the meatloaf has baked, remove it from the oven. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meatloaf layer, smoothing it out with a spatula.

Step 7: Add the Cheese and Bacon

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potato layer. If you’re using bacon bits, sprinkle them on top of the cheese for extra flavor and crunch.

Step 8: Bake Again

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the meatloaf is fully cooked through (it should reach an internal temperature of 160°F).

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the Meat: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can result in a dense and tough texture. Be gentle when combining the ingredients to keep the meatloaf tender.
2. Undercooking the Meatloaf: Make sure the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it's fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
3. Runny Mashed Potatoes: Make sure your mashed potatoes are not too watery before adding them to the casserole. If necessary, drain any excess liquid to avoid a runny top layer.
4. Forgetting to Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking helps it set and makes it easier to serve.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A dish as hearty and delicious as Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole deserves a proper presentation. Here are some ideas to serve and showcase your casserole.

How to Serve Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

• Portion Size: Cut the casserole into square portions for neat, easy servings. Each slice will showcase the layers of meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and cheese.
• Accompaniments: Serve the casserole with a simple side salad, steamed vegetables, or a warm dinner roll to round out the meal. For a light option, green beans or roasted broccoli pair beautifully with this rich casserole.
• Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or green onions adds a burst of color and freshness to each serving.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

• Layer Visibility: Make sure to cut into the casserole in such a way that the layers of meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and cheese are clearly visible. This will make each plate look appetizing.
• Serve Family Style: You can place the whole casserole dish on the table, allowing everyone to help themselves. The melted cheese on top will make it look irresistibly gooey and delicious.

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe Tips

1. Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf and mashed potato layers ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and then bake them with the cheese and bacon when ready to serve.
2. Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Prepare the dish as directed but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
3. Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes if you're short on time, though homemade mashed potatoes provide a better texture and flavor.

Q: Can I use a different kind of cheese? A: Absolutely! You can try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a bit of spice.

Q: Can I prepare this casserole in advance? A: Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it, then bake it right before serving.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat this casserole? A: The best way to reheat is in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. You can also use a microwave for quicker reheating.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines the hearty flavors of meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and gooey cheese. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even as a crowd-pleaser at potlucks. With simple ingredients, easy substitutions, and a step-by-step guide, you'll be able to whip up this delicious casserole with ease. So go ahead and give this recipe a try—you won't be disappointed!

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