Elevate Your Comfort Food Game with Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Are you ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience? Look no further than this mouthwatering Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole! Bursting with flavor and loaded with cheesy goodness, this recipe takes classic meatloaf to a whole new level. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to be a hit. Join us as we dive into the recipe and discover all its delicious secrets!

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

• 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
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

For the Casserole:

• 3 cups leftover (garlic) mashed potatoes
• 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1/3 cup bacon (cooked and crumbled) or bacon bits

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

2. Form the Meatloaf:

1. Transfer the meatloaf mixture into the greased baking dish and shape it into a loaf.
2. Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until it is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.

3. Assemble the Casserole:

1. Once the meatloaf is cooked, spread the leftover mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
2. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon (or bacon bits) over the mashed potatoes.

4. Bake the Casserole:

1. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

• Customize the Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Feel free to add extra cheese, crispy fried onions, or chopped green onions for added flavor and texture.
• Swap Ground Beef: Don’t hesitate to use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative.
• Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or your favorite meat alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use store-bought mashed potatoes instead of leftover mashed potatoes? A: Yes, you can certainly use store-bought mashed potatoes if you don’t have leftovers on hand. Simply prepare them according to the package instructions before assembling the casserole.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers? A: Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer individual portions to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or oven.

Q: Can I make this recipe keto-friendly? A: To make a keto-friendly version of this casserole, omit the breadcrumbs and brown sugar from the meatloaf mixture. Use cauliflower mash instead of mashed potatoes, and ensure the bacon is sugar-free.

Keto and Low-Carb Version:

For a keto and low-carb version of this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole, make the following substitutions:

• Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
• Substitute mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower seasoned with garlic, butter, and cream.
• Use sugar-free bacon or omit it altogether.

In conclusion, Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food dish that will satisfy your cravings and delight your taste buds. With its savory meatloaf base, creamy mashed potatoes, gooey melted cheese, and crispy bacon topping, it’s a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a cozy meal at home, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a hearty and delicious meal that will leave you coming back for more!