Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe: A Hearty Comfort Food You'll Love
If you're searching for the perfect dinner that brings both comfort and flavor to the table, look no further than this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe. This dish combines the savory goodness of a traditional meatloaf with a cheesy, loaded twist that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds. Whether you're a fan of meatloaf or looking for a hearty, filling meal, this casserole hits all the right notes. Stick around to discover how to make this easy-to-follow recipe, and learn tips and tricks that will make it even more delicious. Keep reading to the end—you won’t want to miss a single detail!
What Is Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole?
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a spin on the classic meatloaf dish. Traditional meatloaf is already a beloved comfort food, but this recipe takes it up a notch. Imagine juicy ground beef, seasoned to perfection, topped with layers of mashed potatoes, bacon, and oozy melted cheese. It's a one-pan dish that combines your favorite sides with a hearty main course. Not only is it easy to make, but it also delivers on both flavor and texture, making it an instant favorite for dinner any day of the week.
Ingredients List for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
To make this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- For the Meatloaf Base:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio works best for flavor)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but recommended for depth of flavor)
- For the Loaded Potato Topping:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 4-6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons chives, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Substitutions and Variations
This recipe is highly adaptable, so feel free to tweak it based on your preferences or dietary restrictions:
- Ground Meat: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a meatless alternative for a healthier or vegetarian-friendly version.
- Cheese: If cheddar isn't your favorite, swap it with other melty cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend.
- Bacon: Turkey bacon or veggie bacon can be used as an alternative to traditional bacon.
- Breadcrumbs: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you're sensitive to gluten or almond meal if you want a lower-carb version.
- Potatoes: For an even creamier texture, use Yukon Gold potatoes. Or for a twist, sweet potatoes can add a different flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Base
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and paprika. Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
- Transfer the meatloaf mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, pressing it down evenly to form a firm base. Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top if you want a sweet, tangy glaze.
Step 2: Make the Loaded Potato Topping
- While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the mashed potatoes. Boil the potato chunks in salted water for about 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain well.
- Mash the potatoes with sour cream, milk, butter, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Once the meatloaf base has cooked for about 20 minutes, remove it from the oven and carefully spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
Step 3: Add the Cheese and Bacon
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese over the mashed potatoes. Scatter the crumbled bacon evenly on top.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
How to Cook Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
To recap, here’s a condensed step-by-step guide for preparing this irresistible casserole:
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F.
- Make Meatloaf Base: Mix ground beef with seasonings and press into a greased baking dish. Bake for 20 minutes.
- Prepare Potatoes: Boil potatoes, mash with butter, sour cream, and cheese.
- Layer and Bake Again: Spread mashed potatoes over the meatloaf, top with cheese and bacon, then bake until bubbly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Meat: Be gentle when mixing the ground beef with the other ingredients to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Don't forget to season each layer of your casserole, especially the mashed potatoes, for the best flavor.
- Dry Meatloaf: Ensure that you add enough moisture to the meat mixture—milk, egg, and ketchup help keep the meatloaf moist and juicy.
- Burning the Cheese: Keep an eye on the casserole in the last few minutes of baking to prevent the cheese from burning. You want it melted and golden, not crispy.
Serving and Presentation Tips
This casserole is an all-in-one meal, so it doesn't require a lot of additional sides. However, you can pair it with:
- A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness.
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for added nutrients.
- Dinner rolls or garlic bread for a complete comfort food experience.
How to Serve Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
After the casserole has cooled slightly, cut it into large, hearty squares and serve hot. Each bite should deliver a little bit of everything—tender meatloaf, creamy potatoes, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon. Don’t forget to sprinkle freshly chopped chives over the top for an extra burst of color and flavor.
Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
- Serve the casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for a more gourmet touch.
- Garnish with extra bacon bits and chives on top for a beautiful and appetizing finish.
- Add a drizzle of barbecue sauce or hot sauce on the plate to offer a kick of extra flavor.
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe Tips
- Rest Time: Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving so it can set up and slice more easily.
- Storage: This casserole stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. It also freezes beautifully—simply wrap tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes, or until heated through. For an extra crispy topping, uncover in the last 5 minutes of baking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it with foil, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready to cook, simply pop it into the oven and bake as directed.
Can I freeze Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole? Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as instructed.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes? While homemade mashed potatoes are recommended for the best flavor and texture, instant mashed potatoes can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to season them well.
What other toppings can I add? Feel free to get creative! You can add sautéed onions, mushrooms, jalapeños, or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole recipe is the perfect blend of classic meatloaf and indulgent comfort food. Whether you're making it for a weeknight family dinner or serving it at a gathering, it's sure to impress. With its layers of savory meat, creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheese, it’s an all-in-one dish that everyone will love. Try it today, and don’t forget to experiment with variations to make it your own!
PrintCheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish combining ground beef, mashed potatoes, and gooey cheese. Perfect for a comforting family meal, this casserole brings together savory meatloaf, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese, making it a favorite weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ½ cup onion, diced
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, ketchup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Press the meatloaf mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, spread mashed potatoes over the meatloaf layer, then sprinkle cheese on top.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Add crispy bacon bits on top for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. ⅙ of casserole)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650 mg
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