Description
This Easy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole takes all the cozy flavors of traditional meatloaf and layers them into a cheesy, mashed-potato-topped casserole that's perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Ready in under an hour and made with simple pantry staples, this comforting dish will quickly become a favorite in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Base:
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1 ½ lbs ground beef
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 egg
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¾ cup breadcrumbs
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2 teaspoons garlic powder
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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½ cup ketchup
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Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potato Layer:
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3 cups mashed potatoes
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¼ cup milk
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2 tablespoons butter
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Salt to taste
Toppings:
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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4 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
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Chopped green onions or chives (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
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In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, onion, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper until just combined.
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Press the meat mixture evenly into the baking dish.
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Bake for 20 minutes.
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While the meatloaf base bakes, heat the mashed potatoes with milk and butter until creamy.
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Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the mashed potatoes over the top.
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Sprinkle cheese and bacon evenly over the mashed potatoes.
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Return to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Garnish with chopped green onions or chives if desired. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
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Make Ahead: Assemble up to a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Microwave individual portions or reheat in the oven at 325°F. Add a splash of milk for moisture.
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Variations: Use turkey or chicken instead of beef, cauliflower mash instead of potatoes, or add cooked veggies before layering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 450kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Keywords: Loaded meatloaf casserole, family dinner, meatloaf with mashed potatoes, casserole recipes, comfort food, easy dinner idea, cheesy meatloaf