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Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe | Hearty & Delicious

I can’t even begin to tell you how comforting this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole felt the first time I made it. The kitchen smelled warm and cozy, and when I pulled the bubbling, golden dish out of the oven, I knew it was going to be a family favorite. The layers of tender seasoned beef, creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and crispy bacon create the perfect mix of textures.

If you love hearty one-pan dinners, you might also enjoy theGround Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe for another satisfying meal. I’m excited to walk you through this recipe because it’s easy, indulgent, and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this delicious casserole. I’ve added quick notes and tips to help you get the best results.

3 cups leftover (garlic) mashed potatoes — leftover mash holds its shape better and saves time.
1 pound lean ground beef — lean meat keeps the casserole hearty without feeling greasy.
½ cup white onion, finely chopped — adds moisture and mild sweetness.
3 cloves garlic, minced — gives that deep classic meatloaf flavor.
2 tablespoons brown sugar — balances the savory beef with a hint of sweetness.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce — adds tang and depth.
1 cup Italian breadcrumbs — helps the meat layer hold together properly.
1 large egg — binds the meat mixture and keeps it tender.
1½ cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese — freshly grated melts smoother than pre-shredded. You can also enjoy similar cheesy comfort with the Buffalo Chicken Roasted Potato Bake Recipe.
⅓ cup cooked and crumbled bacon — crisp and smoky for the perfect finishing touch.
Kosher salt and ground black pepper — season generously for full flavor.

Note: Serves 6

Variations

If you’d like to make small changes or adjust the recipe for dietary needs, here are some easy swaps:

Swap beef for ground turkey for a lighter version.
Use dairy-free cheese and mashed cauliflower for a dairy-free option.
Choose gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free casserole.
Add chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or herbs for extra flavor.
Stir in chili flakes or hot sauce for a spicy version.

Cooking Time

Here’s how long everything takes from start to finish:

Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40–45 minutes
Total Time: ~50 minutes

Equipment You Need

These basic tools help you assemble and bake the casserole easily:

8-inch square baking dish — perfect for layering evenly.
Large mixing bowl — to combine the meat mixture.
Fork or clean hands — for mixing the meat gently.
Grater — freshly grated cheese melts best.
Aluminum foil — keeps the dish moist while baking.

How to Make Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Here’s a simple walkthrough, written in short, easy steps so you can follow along effortlessly.

Prepare the Meat Base

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Mix the ground beef, onion, garlic, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, breadcrumbs, and egg in a large bowl. Combine gently until everything is just mixed together without overworking the meat.

Layer the Casserole

Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of your baking dish to form a firm base. Spread the mashed potatoes over the top, smoothing them so they create a flat layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheese and crispy bacon evenly across the top.

Bake Until Golden

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. Let the casserole rest a few minutes before slicing.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

Based on my own experience making this several times, here are some tricks I love:

I always grate the cheese fresh — it melts better and tastes richer.
I chill leftover mashed potatoes slightly so they spread cleanly.
I avoid pressing the meat too tightly so it stays tender and not dense.
I like adding smoked paprika on top for a subtle smoky flavor boost.

How to Serve Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley on top for a pretty color contrast. You can plate it as neat squares or scoop it out family-style straight from the baking dish. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a simple breakdown of the estimated nutrition per serving:

Calories: approx. 450–500
Protein: approx. 28–30g
Carbohydrates: approx. 35–40g
Fat: approx. 25–30g

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead

You can assemble the casserole earlier in the day, cover it, and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Add an extra 5–10 minutes of baking time if starting from cold.

Storage

Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven so the cheese melts and the layers stay creamy.

Freezing

Let it cool completely before freezing. Wrap tightly or portion into freezer containers. It stays fresh for about 2 months. Thaw overnight, then reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this casserole is such a hit:

It’s incredibly comforting — every layer is warm, creamy, and satisfying.
It’s quick and easy — perfect for busy nights or lazy weekends.
It’s customizable — you can adjust flavors, ingredients, and textures easily.
It feeds the whole family — generous portions make it ideal for sharing.
It reheats beautifully — perfect for leftovers and meal prep.

Ben Carraoli