Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf (Print Format)

A comforting take on meatloaf with creamy potatoes, melty cheese, and bacon bits baked to perfection in one dish.

# Ingredients:

→ Meatloaf Layer

01 - 1 lb ground beef
02 - 1 big egg
03 - 1/2 tsp black pepper
04 - 1 tsp garlic powder
05 - 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
06 - 1/4 cup diced onion
07 - 1 tsp salt
08 - 1/2 cup panko crumbs
09 - 1/4 cup milk
10 - 1/2 cup ketchup, split into two parts

→ Topping Choices

11 - 4 slices cooked and crumbled bacon
12 - 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
13 - Optional: 2 tbsp sliced chives or green onions
14 - 2 cups mashed potatoes, store-bought or homemade

# Steps:

01 - Turn your oven on to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat a 9×9-inch dish with a bit of grease.
02 - Toss ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, Worcestershire, and half the ketchup in a big bowl. Mix it all up well.
03 - Pat the beef mixture into the baking dish and smear the leftover ketchup across the surface. Let it bake for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked.
04 - Spread the mashed potatoes over the baked meatloaf. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, then add the bacon bits.
05 - Pop it back in the oven for another 10-15 minutes to melt the cheese and make it bubbly. Top with green onions if you like.

# Tips:

01 - You can prep the meat part in advance, store it in the fridge, and finish the toppings later.
02 - Swap out the beef for ground chicken or turkey if you'd like.