Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

If you're looking for the ultimate comfort food to satisfy your cravings, this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a must-try. Combining the hearty goodness of meatloaf with cheesy mashed potatoes and crispy bacon, this dish is guaranteed to be a family favorite. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just craving something indulgent, this recipe is packed with flavor, easy to make, and a delightful twist on traditional meatloaf. Read on to discover how to prepare this decadent casserole, step by step!

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What is Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a delicious hybrid dish that brings together the best of both worlds—classic meatloaf and a loaded baked potato. It’s layered with savory ground beef and pork, creamy mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, creating a hearty meal that is sure to please everyone at the table. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it can also serve as a crowd-pleasing dish for potlucks or gatherings.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

To make the perfect Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef – The base of the meatloaf, adding rich flavor and texture.
• ½ pound ground pork – Adds a bit of tenderness and extra depth of flavor to the meatloaf mix.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped – Offers a mild sweetness and moisture to the meat mixture.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind the ingredients together and gives structure to the meatloaf.
• ½ cup milk – Keeps the meatloaf moist and tender, balancing out the dry ingredients.
• 1 large egg – Another binding ingredient that helps hold the meatloaf together.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds a savory umami flavor, deepening the taste of the meat.
• 2 teaspoons salt – Enhances all the flavors in the casserole.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a bit of mild heat and balances out the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – A subtle yet delicious seasoning that complements the other ingredients.
• 2 cups mashed potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes make up the top layer of the casserole.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully over the mashed potatoes, adding richness.
• ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon – Crispy bacon adds an irresistible crunch and a smoky flavor.
• ¼ cup chopped green onions – Adds a fresh pop of color and a mild onion flavor for garnish.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is that it’s versatile. You can easily adapt it based on what you have in your kitchen or to cater to different dietary needs:

• Ground Meat Substitutions: If you don’t have ground beef or pork, feel free to use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative. You can also try using sausage for an extra layer of flavor.
• Dairy-Free Version: Replace the milk with almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free cheese to make the casserole lactose-free.
• Mashed Potato Alternatives: For a lower-carb version, try mashed cauliflower instead of traditional mashed potatoes.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef and pork for a plant-based meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of milk for binding.
• Add More Veggies: You can incorporate finely chopped carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the meat mixture for added nutrition.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

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

Ready to dive into the cooking process? Follow these easy steps to create your Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole.

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish or casserole dish with cooking spray or a light coat of oil.
2. Prepare the meat mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Use your hands to gently mix everything together until all ingredients are well-combined.
3. Form the base: Spread the meat mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, pressing it down into an even layer.
4. Bake the meatloaf: Place the meat mixture into the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the meat is mostly cooked through and firm to the touch.
5. Prepare the mashed potatoes: While the meatloaf base is baking, prepare your mashed potatoes. If you’re using leftover mashed potatoes, simply heat them up. If making fresh, boil peeled potatoes until tender, then mash them with butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
6. Layer the mashed potatoes: Once the meatloaf base is baked, remove it from the oven. Carefully spread the mashed potatoes over the meat, creating an even layer on top.
7. Add cheese and bacon: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes, followed by the crumbled bacon.
8. Final bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
9. Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the meatloaf: Overworking the meat mixture can result in a dense, tough texture. Be gentle when mixing and shaping the meatloaf.
• Skipping the cheese and bacon layer: These two ingredients add richness and flavor, so don’t leave them out unless necessary. If you're trying to make a lighter version, consider reducing the quantity but still include a bit of both.
• Not letting the casserole rest before serving: Allowing the casserole to cool slightly ensures that the layers stay intact when sliced and served.
• Undercooking the meat: Make sure the meatloaf base is fully cooked before adding the mashed potatoes on top. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F for safety.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it alongside some light sides to round out the dish. Consider pairing it with:

• Steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans to add a bit of freshness and color to the plate.
• A simple salad with a vinaigrette to provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole.
• Garlic bread for some added crunch and to soak up the delicious juices from the meatloaf.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Presentation can turn a simple casserole into a visually stunning dish:

• Garnish generously: Sprinkle chopped green onions or fresh parsley over the casserole for a burst of color.
• Serve in individual portions: For a more elegant presentation, you can serve the casserole in small, individual ramekins or bowls.
• Layered look: Make sure each slice shows off the distinct layers of meatloaf, mashed potatoes, cheese, and bacon. Cutting neat slices will ensure your guests can appreciate the textures and flavors at once.

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just extend the baking time slightly if baking straight from the fridge.
• Double the recipe: This recipe can easily be doubled to feed a larger crowd. Simply use a bigger baking dish or two dishes and adjust the baking time as needed.
• Leftovers: This casserole stores well and makes for delicious leftovers. Keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze individual portions for an easy, reheatable meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Absolutely. If you're in a pinch for time, instant mashed potatoes can be a quick and convenient substitute.

How do I reheat leftovers?
To reheat, simply place a portion of the casserole in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes very well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon in one irresistible dish. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to this hearty, cheesy delight!

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