Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf

A heartwarming mix of flavorful meatloaf and smooth mashed potatoes unite in this cozy casserole that'll quickly become your household's must-have dish. Every bite delivers pure delight with juicy ground beef underneath fluffy spuds, gooey cheddar, and crunchy bacon bits. This dish takes two beloved comfort classics and turns them into something even more mouthwatering than their individual parts.

I whipped up this casserole during a cool fall night when I wanted something filling but didn't feel like cooking meatloaf and mashed potatoes as separate dishes. When I saw how the cheese sank into those buttery potatoes while the meatloaf stayed juicy below, I knew I'd created something wonderful. Now it's what I always bring to family dinners and community gatherings.

Key Components

• Ground Beef: Go with 80/20 beef for just the right amount of fat and taste. That bit of fat keeps everything moist and adds wonderful flavor
• Breadcrumbs: Try using freshly made crumbs for better binding and softness. I like to grind slightly stale bread in my blender
• Russet Potatoes: Their starchiness makes wonderfully fluffy mashed potatoes that work perfectly as the top layer
• Sharp Cheddar: Grate it yourself for smoother melting instead of buying pre-shredded. The tangy flavor really makes this dish pop
• Bacon: Thick slices work best for texture and taste. Its smoky quality brings amazing depth to every serving

Step-By-Step Cooking Guide

Create Your Foundation:

First set your oven to 375°F

Mix the beef with breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings lightly with your fingers

Don't mix too much or the meat will get tough

Spread it evenly across your baking dish

Add Flavor and Cook Partway:

Pour ketchup over the meat mixture in an even layer

Place foil on top and bake about 20-25 minutes

This first cooking step makes sure the meat cooks properly before adding the toppings

Make Your Topping:

During meat cooking time, fix your mashed potatoes

Don't be shy with the butter and warm milk for extra richness

Add plenty of salt and pepper for good flavor

Get your bacon nice and crispy, then break it into small pieces

Put It All Together:

Take the meat from the oven and pour off any extra liquid

Smooth the potatoes on top of the meat in an even coating

Scatter cheese and bacon pieces all over the surface

Bake without covering for 15-20 minutes until the cheese gets bubbly and golden

Save

In my cooking life, I've always relied on potatoes. I've tried many kinds, but russets are simply the best for this dish. They turn so creamy and fluffy when mashed, making them perfect for soaking up butter and cheese. Each mouthful is pure comfort.

Tasty Companions

This rich and filling casserole needs something light and fresh on the side. Try a simple peppery arugula salad with lemony dressing or some garlicky green beans. I've also found that balsamic-glazed Brussels sprouts work wonders with these savory flavors.

Planning Ahead Tricks

From hosting many dinners, I've learned you can totally prep this ahead of time. Just put everything together except the cheese and bacon on top, wrap it tight, and stick it in the fridge for up to a day. When you're ready to eat, add those final toppings and bake it a bit longer—about 10-15 extra minutes.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

One thing I really appreciate about this dish is how well it keeps. Just put any extra portions in sealed containers and they'll stay good in the fridge for about 4 days. When you want to eat them, warm them up in a 350°F oven with some foil on top. It'll taste way better than if you used the microwave.

Fixing Common Problems

If your meatloaf turns out dry, you probably mixed it too much or cooked it too long. I've found it works best to stir just until things are combined and use a meat thermometer to check doneness. For the creamiest mashed potatoes, always start them in cold water and slowly mix in warm milk.

Save

After making this casserole countless times, I can tell you it truly brings folks together. Something about those amazing smells filling the kitchen just pulls everyone to the dinner table. Whether it's just a random Tuesday night or a big holiday meal, this loaded meatloaf casserole always makes people happy and satisfied. The way the crunchy bacon works with the creamy potatoes and juicy meatloaf creates a trio of flavors that nobody can turn down. It's more than just food - it's like comfort wrapped up in a baking dish.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use store-bought mashed potatoes?

Absolutely! Just heat them slightly first so they're easy to spread over the meat.

→ What’s the best way to keep leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat portions in the oven or microwave.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yep! Cover and freeze for up to three months. Be sure to thaw it in the fridge before warming it up.

→ What sides pair well with it?

Steamed veggies, roasted carrots, or a fresh green salad are great options to round out the meal.

→ How can I make it lighter?

Use ground turkey or lean beef, stick to low-fat cheese, and try mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes.