Description
This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish blending savory ground beef and pork, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon. Perfect for a family dinner, this recipe combines classic meatloaf flavors with a rich, cheesy potato topping baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Base
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup ketchup (optional for added sweetness)
Mashed Potato Topping
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (about 3-4 large potatoes, peeled, boiled, and mashed)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Toppings & Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 green onions, sliced, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, finely diced onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and dried Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form Meat Layer: Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish to create the bottom layer of your casserole.
- Add Ketchup Layer and Initial Bake: Optionally spread a thin layer of ketchup over the meat mixture for added sweetness and flavor. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the meat is mostly cooked through.
- Prepare Mashed Potato Topping: While the meatloaf bakes, mix mashed potatoes with sour cream and milk. Season this mixture with salt and pepper to taste for a creamy and flavorful topping.
- Assemble and Add Toppings: Once the meatloaf is partially baked, spread the mashed potato mixture evenly over the meat base. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled cooked bacon on top.
- Final Bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese melts, becomes bubbly, and turns slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with sliced green onions, and serve hot for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly made mashed potatoes rather than instant for creamier texture.
- The ketchup layer is optional but adds a nice sweet tang complementing the meat flavors.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative.
- Add chopped herbs like parsley or thyme to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
