Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole: A Comforting Family Favorite

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that combines the classic flavors of meatloaf with the irresistible cheesiness of a loaded baked potato, look no further than this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole recipe! Packed with savory ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and gooey melted cheese, this hearty casserole is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual dinner party, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this delicious masterpiece!

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 and Prepare the Casserole Dish:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.

2. Make the Meatloaf Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until well combined.

3. Layer the Casserole:

Spread the mashed potatoes evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Spoon the meatloaf mixture on top of the mashed potatoes, spreading it out into an even layer.
Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the meatloaf mixture, followed by the crumbled bacon or bacon bits.

4. Bake the Casserole:

Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or green onions, if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

Customize the Potatoes: Feel free to use any type of mashed potatoes you prefer, such as garlic mashed potatoes, loaded mashed potatoes with sour cream and chives, or mashed sweet potatoes for a healthier twist.
Add Vegetables: Mix in some finely chopped vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to add extra flavor and nutrients to the meatloaf mixture.
Swap the Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or smoked gouda, to change up the flavor profile of the casserole.

Keto and Low-Carb Version:

To make a keto or low-carb version of this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole, consider the following modifications:

Replace Breadcrumbs: Substitute almond flour or crushed pork rinds for the Italian breadcrumbs to reduce the carb content.
Use Cauliflower Mash: Swap the mashed potatoes for mashed cauliflower seasoned with garlic, butter, and cheese for a low-carb alternative.
Choose Sugar-Free Bacon: Opt for sugar-free bacon or omit the bacon altogether to reduce the carb and sugar content of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead of leftover mashed potatoes? A: Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes in this recipe. Follow the package instructions to prepare the mashed potatoes and spread them evenly in the casserole dish before adding the meatloaf mixture.

Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover portions of the casserole for later enjoyment. Simply wrap individual portions in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight and bake it in a preheated oven until heated through.

In conclusion, this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With its hearty layers of savory meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, gooey melted cheese, and crispy bacon, it’s a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle, looking for a low-carb alternative, or simply craving a delicious dinner that’s easy to make, this recipe has you covered. So why wait? Head to the kitchen and whip up a batch of this irresistible casserole today!