Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole: A Comfort Food Masterpiece
Get ready to dive spoon-first into the ultimate comfort dish! Today, we’re talking about a truly spectacular recipe: the cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole. This isn’t just any weeknight dinner; it’s a hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying meal that promises to become a family favorite. Imagine tender meatloaf, smothered in rich sauce, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, and then blanketed in gooey, melted cheese. Pure bliss!
This easy casserole recipe brings together the best of classic meatloaf and a cheesy potato gratin, all in one glorious pan. It’s the perfect solution for busy evenings when you crave something truly special and delicious. Let’s get cooking!
Table of Contents
- 1. Introducing the Ultimate Comfort Food: Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole!
- 2. Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole: 5-Step Delicious Recipe
- 3. What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Your Meatloaf Casserole
- 4. How to Make Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole: A 5-Step Guide
- 5. Expert Tips and Delicious Variations
- 6. Serving Suggestions: What to Pair With Your Casserole
1. Introducing the Ultimate Comfort Food: Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole!
There’s nothing quite like a hearty casserole to bring warmth and joy to your dinner table. This specific cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole takes the classic concept of meatloaf and elevates it into a truly unforgettable experience. It’s robust, satisfying, and packed with layers of incredible flavor.
Forget dry, crumbly meatloaf! Our version stays moist and tender, perfectly complemented by a creamy mashed potato topping and a generous blanket of melted cheese. It’s a fantastic ground beef recipe that everyone will adore. Trust me, this will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
2. Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole: 5-Step Delicious Recipe
This cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole: 5-step delicious recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary hug in a dish. You’ll absolutely adore it for so many reasons. First, it’s incredibly comforting, making it perfect for cozy evenings or feeding a hungry crowd.
Second, it’s surprisingly simple to put together, even for novice cooks. We’ve broken it down into just five easy steps! Finally, it’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to your family’s preferences. It’s truly a winner for any occasion.
3. What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Your Meatloaf Casserole
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this magnificent meatloaf casserole. Most of these items are probably already staples in your pantry and fridge, making this a convenient and affordable meal to prepare. Fresh, quality ingredients make all the difference!
Here’s what you’ll need to make this incredible dish:
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 lean is ideal)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup ketchup, plus extra for topping
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed for mashing
- 1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste for mashed potatoes
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, or your favorite blend
- 1/2 cup cooked, crumbled bacon (optional, for extra “loaded” goodness)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
4. How to Make Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole: A 5-Step Guide
Now for the fun part – assembling this amazing dish! Follow these simple steps to create a show-stopping cheesy meatloaf dinner. You’ll be amazed at how easily this comes together.
4.1. Step 1: Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
4.2. Step 2: Assembling the Casserole
- Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
- Spread a thin layer of extra ketchup over the top of the meatloaf base.
4.3. Step 3: Baking to Perfection
- Bake the meatloaf mixture in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s mostly cooked through.
- While the meatloaf bakes, boil your cubed potatoes until tender. Drain them thoroughly.
- Mash the potatoes with sour cream (or cream cheese), butter, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
4.4. Step 4: Adding the Cheesy Topping
- Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven.
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the partially baked meatloaf.
- If using, sprinkle the cooked, crumbled bacon over the mashed potatoes, then top generously with the shredded cheddar cheese.
4.5. Step 5: Final Bake and Broil
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the meatloaf is fully cooked (internal temperature of 160°F/71°C).
- For an extra golden-brown crust, you can carefully broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Let the cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
5. Expert Tips and Delicious Variations
Make this meatloaf casserole truly your own with these handy tips and ideas. A little creativity can go a long way in customizing your meal. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or toppings!
- Vegetable Boost: Add finely diced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the meatloaf mixture for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes in the meatloaf or a dash of hot sauce in the mashed potatoes can add a delightful kick.
- Cheese Choices: Don’t limit yourself to cheddar! Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a spicy pepper jack for a different flavor profile on your cheesy meatloaf.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the entire casserole (up to the point of the final bake) a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then add 10-15 minutes to the final baking time.
- Gravy Lover’s Dream: Serve with a side of homemade or store-bought gravy for an extra layer of richness. You can find excellent gravy recipes on sites like Serious Eats.
Looking for more comforting dinner ideas? See others recipes here .
6. Serving Suggestions: What to Pair With Your Casserole
This cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole is a complete meal in itself, but a few simple sides can round it out beautifully. Think about fresh, vibrant vegetables to cut through the richness. These additions will create a balanced and satisfying dinner.
- A crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
- Steamed green beans or broccoli.
- Roasted asparagus or glazed carrots.
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls for soaking up any extra sauce.
Foire Aux Questions
Can I prepare this cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole, up to the point of the final bake, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, you might need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers of this delicious casserole are fantastic! Store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave for individual servings or cover and bake in a preheated oven (around 350°F / 175°C) until warmed through.
Can I freeze this meatloaf casserole?
Yes, you can! This casserole freezes well. You can either freeze the entire unbaked casserole (wrap well in plastic wrap and foil) or freeze individual baked portions. For an unbaked casserole, thaw completely in the refrigerator before baking. Baked leftovers can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat thoroughly.