Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that combines the classic flavors of meatloaf with the creamy goodness of mashed potatoes and melted cheese. This casserole is a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes and transforms them into a delicious, filling meal. With a savory meatloaf base topped with cheese and crispy bacon, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 3 cups leftover (garlic) mashed potatoes
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup white onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/3 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled (or bacon bits)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will ensure that the casserole cooks evenly and the top becomes nicely browned.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the lean ground beef, finely chopped white onion, minced garlic, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Italian breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
3. Form the Meatloaf:
- Transfer the meatloaf mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish. Spread and press the mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish to form a uniform layer.
4. Add the Mashed Potatoes:
- Spoon the leftover mashed potatoes over the meatloaf mixture. Spread the potatoes evenly to cover the meatloaf completely. You can use a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth out the surface.
5. Top with Cheese and Bacon:
- Sprinkle the grated sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes. Then, scatter the crumbled bacon (or bacon bits) on top of the cheese.
6. Bake the Casserole:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the mashed potatoes are lightly browned.
7. Cool and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the casserole set and make it easier to slice.
Tips for Success
- Leftover Mashed Potatoes: If you don’t have leftover mashed potatoes, you can make a fresh batch or use store-bought mashed potatoes. For added flavor, consider using garlic mashed potatoes or adding minced garlic to your potatoes.
- Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is preferred for a lower fat content, but you can use ground beef with a higher fat content if desired. Just be sure to drain any excess fat before mixing.
- Cheese Variety: While sharp cheddar cheese is used in this recipe, you can experiment with other types of cheese such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for different flavors.
- Bacon: If you’re using bacon bits, add them just before serving to maintain their crispiness. Cooked and crumbled bacon can be added earlier during baking.
Variations
- Vegetable Add-ins: For extra nutrition, consider adding vegetables such as peas, corn, or carrots to the meatloaf mixture before baking.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the meatloaf mixture for a spicy twist.
- Herbs and Spices: Customize the flavor of the meatloaf by adding herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or paprika.
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the comforting flavors of meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheese. It’s an excellent way to use up leftovers and transform them into a hearty meal that your whole family will love. With its savory meatloaf base, cheesy topping, and crispy bacon, this casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness in every bite!
