Description
This Cheesy Loaded Beef Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish combining a savory ground beef meatloaf base with creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this casserole offers a delicious twist on classic meatloaf with a creamy, cheesy topping and a flavorful blend of seasonings.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Layer
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Mashed Potato Topping
- 2 cups (450g) mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) sour cream or cream cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk (if needed to loosen the potatoes)
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (60g) cooked and crumbled bacon
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a medium casserole dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Meatloaf Layer: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix all ingredients together until well incorporated. Press this meat mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
- Bake the Meatloaf Base: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake the meatloaf layer for 20 minutes. This partial baking firms up the meatloaf before adding the toppings.
- Prepare Mashed Potatoes: While the meatloaf bakes, mix the mashed potatoes with sour cream or cream cheese if using, to enhance creaminess. Add milk gradually if needed to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Assemble the Casserole: Remove the casserole dish from the oven and carefully spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf base. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the potato layer, then evenly distribute the cooked and crumbled bacon on top.
- Bake the Casserole: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired, slice into portions, and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can mix herbs like thyme or rosemary into the meatloaf mixture.
- If you prefer, use cream cheese instead of sour cream for a richer mashed potato topping.
- Make sure to grease your casserole dish well to avoid sticking.
- This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated; bake when ready.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
