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Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Featured in: Hearty and Delicious Mains

This ultimate comfort food casserole layers savory seasoned meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes that get even better topped with melted cheddar and crispy bacon. The meatloaf stays juicy while developing wonderful flavor, and the potatoes soak up all that goodness. Every bite brings the perfect balance of meat, potatoes, cheese and bacon for total satisfaction. Simple ingredients transform into something that feels extra special and satisfying. Some fresh chives on top add color and fresh flavor.
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Updated on Tue, 14 Jan 2025 20:38:35 GMT
A generous slice of layered meat and potato casserole topped with melted cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green chives on a white plate. Pin it
A generous slice of layered meat and potato casserole topped with melted cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green chives on a white plate. | tastygusto.com

I've taken two comfort food favorites and turned them into something even better. This casserole layers my family's meatloaf recipe with creamy mashed potatoes loads of melty cheese and crispy bacon. Every time I make it my kitchen fills with the most amazing smell and everyone keeps peeking in the oven asking when dinner will be ready.

The Story Behind This Recipe

This recipe started as a happy accident when I had leftover mashed potatoes one night. Now it's the most requested dinner at our house. It's like a warm hug in a casserole dish combining all those flavors we grew up with but made even more delicious with plenty of cheese and bacon on top.

What You'll Need

  • Ground Beef: I use the 80/20 mix for the best flavor.
  • Mashed Potatoes: Make them extra creamy they're the star here.
  • Sharp Cheddar: Get a block and grate it yourself it melts better.
  • Bacon: Cook it nice and crispy for the top.
  • Breadcrumbs: They keep the meatloaf tender.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: My secret ingredient for rich flavor.
  • Eggs: They hold everything together.
A close-up view of a layered casserole dish featuring ground beef, mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and green onions on top. Pin it
A close-up view of a layered casserole dish featuring ground beef, mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and green onions on top. | tastygusto.com

Let's Get Cooking

Starting with the Meat
I mix my ground beef gently with all the seasonings. Don't overwork it or it gets tough. Press it into your biggest casserole dish mine's about 9x13.
Building Those Layers
Next comes my creamy mashed potatoes spread them like you're frosting a cake. Then pile on that cheese and crumbled bacon. Sometimes I add extra because who doesn't love more bacon?
Into the Oven
My oven's always set to 375. It takes about 45 minutes until everything's hot and bubbly and that cheese is perfectly melted.
The Hardest Part
Let it rest for 10 minutes before cutting. I know it's torture but trust me it's worth the wait.

My Favorite Tips

Don't mash up your meat mixture too much or you'll end up with a tough casserole. I always grab the best meat I can find it makes such a difference. And that rest time at the end? Non-negotiable it helps everything set up perfectly.

A layered casserole featuring ground beef, mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, and topped with bacon and green onions. Pin it
A layered casserole featuring ground beef, mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, and topped with bacon and green onions. | tastygusto.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the components ahead and assemble just before baking. Store the meatloaf mixture and mashed potatoes separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
→ What can I substitute for ground pork?
You can use all ground beef or substitute ground turkey for the pork. Just keep in mind that leaner meats might make the meatloaf slightly less juicy.
→ Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. Wrap it well and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
→ How do I know when it's done?
The meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 160°F. The cheese on top should be melted and bubbly, and the edges should be lightly browned.
→ What sides go well with this?
Since this is a complete meal with meat and potatoes, a simple green salad or steamed vegetables make perfect light sides to balance the richness.

Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

A comforting casserole that combines savory meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, topped with melted cheese and crispy bacon.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
40 Minutes
Total Time
60 Minutes

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 8 Servings (1 casserole)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

01 1 pound ground beef.
02 1/2 pound ground pork.
03 1 small onion, finely chopped.
04 1 cup breadcrumbs.
05 1/2 cup milk.
06 1 large egg.
07 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce.
08 2 teaspoons salt.
09 1 teaspoon black pepper.
10 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
11 2 cups mashed potatoes.
12 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
13 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon.
14 1/4 cup chopped green onions.

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

Step 02

Combine ground meats, onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Mix until just combined.

Step 03

Press meat mixture evenly into prepared baking dish.

Step 04

Spread mashed potatoes over meat. Top with cheese, bacon, and green onions.

Step 05

Bake for 35-40 minutes until cheese is bubbly and meat is cooked through.

Step 06

Let casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  1. Let rest 10 minutes after baking for easier slicing.
  2. Can customize with different cheeses and vegetables.

Tools You'll Need

  • 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • Large mixing bowl.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy.
  • Eggs.
  • Wheat.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 450
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~