Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole – Looking for a hearty, comforting, and satisfying meal to make for dinner tonight? Look no further than this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole recipe! Made with garlic mashed potatoes, lean ground beef, onion, garlic, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Italian breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, and bacon, this recipe is loaded with flavor and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect comfort food to enjoy with your loved ones on a cozy night in. So, let’s get cooking!

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole recipe has become a staple in my household, especially during the colder months. My husband absolutely loves it and always requests it for dinner. One time, I decided to switch things up and make it for a family gathering, and it was a huge hit! Everyone was raving about how delicious and comforting it was. I even had to share the recipe with a few family members who wanted to make it for their own families. This recipe is not only easy to make, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that is sure to become a favorite in your household too.

Why This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe is a Must-Try?

This recipe is a perfect comfort food that is easy to make and packed with flavor.

The combination of garlic mashed potatoes, lean ground beef, onion, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce make for a hearty and satisfying meal.
The addition of Italian breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, and bacon bits adds an extra layer of deliciousness that everyone will love.

This recipe can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

Ingredients:

3 cups leftover garlic mashed potatoes (680 grams)
1 pound lean ground beef (454 grams)

1/2 cup white onion, finely chopped (55 grams)
3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons brown sugar (25 grams)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 cup Italian breadcrumbs (100 grams)
1 large egg

1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated (170 grams)
1/3 cup bacon (cooked and crumbled) or bacon bits (38 grams)

Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400º F (200º C).

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce using two forks or your hands.

Season generously with salt and pepper, then work in breadcrumbs and egg.

Transfer the ground beef mixture to an 8-inch square baking dish and press it into an even layer.

Spread mashed potatoes on top of the ground beef mixture, then top with cheddar cheese and bacon bits.

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, then place it in the oven. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the aluminum foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Notes:

If you don’t have leftover mashed potatoes, you can make fresh mashed potatoes and let them cool before using them in this recipe.
For a leaner version of this recipe, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.

Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking by adding your favorite herbs and spices to the ground beef mixture.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a hearty and delicious comfort food that is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. With layers of tender ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, and you can even customize it with your favorite seasonings or add-ins. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover mashed potatoes you may have on hand. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the comforting flavors and textures of this delicious casserole!

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Keep in mind that you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if you’re starting with a cold casserole.

What can I use instead of bacon?

You can use cooked and crumbled sausage, ham, or even chopped mushrooms to add some umami flavor to this casserole.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole before or after baking it. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. To freeze after baking, let the casserole cool completely, then cut it into portions and store them in airtight containers or freezer bags. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven until it’s heated through.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables on the side to balance out the richness of the dish.