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Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

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  • Author: cozykitcheneats
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, featuring seasoned ground beef topped with a layer of creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese. It’s a hearty and delicious twist on the classic meatloaf that’s perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80/20 mix for juiciness)

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

  • 1/4 cup milk

  • 1 large egg

  • 1/2 onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/4 cup ketchup (for mixing into the meatloaf)

  • 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Mashed Potato Layer:

  • 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 1/2 cup sour cream

  • 1/2 cup milk

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping:

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled

  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

  2. Prepare the meatloaf layer: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and 1/4 cup ketchup (and barbecue sauce if using). Mix until everything is well combined.

  3. Form the meatloaf layer: Spread the meat mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, pressing it down to form a flat, even layer.

  4. Bake the meatloaf: Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until it is cooked through and no longer pink in the center (internal temperature should reach 160°F/71°C).

  5. Make the mashed potatoes: While the meatloaf is baking, cook the diced potatoes in a large pot of salted boiling water until fork-tender, about 12–15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.

  6. Mash the potatoes: Add the butter, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.

  7. Assemble the casserole: Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meatloaf layer.

  8. Add toppings: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes, followed by the crumbled bacon.

  9. Bake the casserole: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  10. Garnish and serve: Once out of the oven, sprinkle with chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of this dish.

  • To make this dish even more flavorful, add some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the meat mixture.

 

  • If you like extra cheese, feel free to add more cheese to the mashed potatoes or mix some into the meatloaf itself.

Find it online: https://cozykitcheneats.com/cheesy-loaded-meatloaf-casserole/