Irresistible Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe for Families

Comfort meets creativity in this cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole that promises to revolutionize your dinner routine.

Layers of savory meat blend seamlessly with melted cheese and crisp vegetable accents.

Hearty ingredients come together in a dish that feels both nostalgic and exciting.

Home cooks will adore how simple yet satisfying this recipe becomes with minimal prep work.

Crispy edges and a molten cheese center make every bite an adventure of flavor.

Hungry diners can expect a meal that transforms an ordinary weeknight into a celebration of deliciousness.

Dig in and savor every delectable, cheese-covered morsel of this irresistible comfort classic.

FAQs

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works perfectly and offers a leaner protein option while maintaining the same delicious flavor profile.

• How do I prevent the meatloaf from becoming dry?

Mix in some milk or sour cream with the ground meat, and avoid overcooking. The egg and breadcrumbs also help retain moisture in the dish.

• Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love cheesy dishes, and the combination of meatloaf and mashed potatoes creates a comforting meal that children typically enjoy.

• Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

You can prepare the meatloaf and mashed potato layers in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

What Makes Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Special

• Craft Ultimate Comfort Meal: This hearty meatloaf casserole transforms classic comfort food into a cheesy, satisfying dinner that hugs your taste buds with every bite.
• Speed Through Dinner Prep: Combine ingredients quickly in one bowl, layer simply in a baking dish, and let the oven do most of the work while you relax or handle other tasks.
• Family-Friendly Crowd Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of seasoned ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese that makes this dish universally appealing.
• Minimal Kitchen Cleanup: Using just one baking dish means fewer pots and pans to wash, making this recipe a winner for busy home cooks who want delicious food without extensive kitchen cleanup.

Ingredients for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

• Ground Beef: A hearty and flavorful base that provides the primary protein for the casserole.

• Egg: Helps bind the meatloaf ingredients together and adds richness.
• Breadcrumbs: Creates a tender texture and helps hold the meatloaf mixture together.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds depth of flavor and enhances the savory profile of the meat.

• Onion, Garlic: Provide a classic aromatic base that adds complexity and depth to the meatloaf.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the meat.

• Mashed Potatoes: Creates a creamy, comforting layer that complements the meat.
• Cheddar Cheese: Adds a rich, melty topping that brings extra flavor and indulgence.
• Parsley: A fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and light herbal note.

How to Cook Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Set your oven to a toasty 375F (190C) so it’s ready for the delicious meatloaf casserole you’re about to create.

Step 2: Create The Meaty Mixture

• Ground beef
• Diced onion
• Minced garlic
• Egg
• Breadcrumbs
• Worcestershire sauce
• Salt
• Black pepper

Mix everything thoroughly using your hands or a sturdy spoon until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: First Baking Phase

Transfer the beef mixture into a baking dish, pressing it down firmly to create an even layer. Slide the dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for 20 minutes, allowing the meat to start cooking and develop rich flavors.

Step 4: Add Creamy Potato Layer

Once the initial baking is complete, carefully spread a generous layer of smooth mashed potatoes over the cooked meatloaf. Sprinkle a hearty amount of shredded cheddar cheese on top for an extra gooey and delicious finish.

Step 5: Final Bake And Melt

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes. Watch for the cheese to transform into a golden, bubbly blanket covering the meatloaf.

Step 6: Garnish And Serve

Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve the casserole piping hot directly from the oven, ready to delight everyone at the table.

Helpful Tips for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

• Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and create a healthier dish.
• Customize the meatloaf by adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to help it set and make slicing easier.
• For a gluten-free version, replace breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or rolled oats.
• Experiment with different cheese blends like mozzarella or pepper jack to add variety to the classic recipe.

Flavor Variations for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

• Turkey Lean Option: Replace ground beef with ground turkey for a lower-fat version that maintains rich flavor and protein content.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to accommodate celiac dietary needs.
• Vegetarian Transformation: Substitute ground meat with lentils, black beans, or plant-based meat alternative, using similar seasonings for protein-packed meal.
• Keto-Friendly Version: Replace mashed potatoes with cauliflower mash, use low-carb breadcrumb alternatives, and select high-fat cheese for ketogenic diet compatibility.

Pairing Suggestions for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

• Family Dinner Delight: Create a comforting meal that brings everyone together around the table, perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
• Potluck Superstar: Bring this hearty casserole to community events or gatherings, where it'll surely become the talk of the potluck with its cheesy, meaty goodness.
• Game Day Crowd-Pleaser: Serve alongside crisp green salad and crusty bread for a satisfying meal that will keep sports fans happy during game time celebrations.
• Meal Prep Champion: Prepare the casserole in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready, making it an excellent option for busy families who want delicious home-cooked meals with minimal effort.

Proper Storage for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Separate the meatloaf and mashed potato layers before refrigerating to keep their individual textures intact.
• Wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss and protect from other refrigerator odors.

Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Oven: Preheat to 350F, cover with foil to prevent drying, and warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165F.

Savory Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 21 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Homemade cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole combines hearty ground beef with melted cheese and classic comfort ingredients. Rich flavors and crispy edges make this dish a satisfying meal that brings family together at the dinner table.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 egg

Dairy and Cheese:

• 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup mashed potatoes

Seasonings and Additional Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 small onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons parsley (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the oven to 375F (190C), ensuring proper temperature for even cooking.
2. Combine ground beef with finely chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl, thoroughly blending all ingredients.
3. Transfer the meat mixture into a baking dish, pressing firmly and evenly to create a compact base layer.
4. Bake the meat layer for 20 minutes, allowing the beef to cook and develop rich flavors.
5. Remove the partially cooked meatloaf from the oven and spread a smooth, even layer of creamy mashed potatoes across the surface.
6. Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the potato layer, ensuring complete coverage.
7. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese melts completely and turns golden and bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes to set.
9. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant, fresh finish.
10. Serve immediately while hot, allowing diners to enjoy the melted cheese and robust flavors.

Notes

• Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based alternatives for a leaner or vegetarian version of this hearty casserole.
• Experiment with different cheese combinations like mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda to add unique flavor profiles and excitement to the dish.
• Add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach into the meat mixture to boost nutritional value and create a more colorful, nutrient-dense meal.
• For a gluten-free option, replace breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour to maintain the meatloaf’s texture and binding.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 450 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg