Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Boil Water and Milk: In a medium saucepan, bring 1 1/2 cups of water and 1/2 cup of milk to a boil.
Stir in Instant Mashed Potato Powder: Remove from heat and stir in the garlic-flavored instant mashed potato powder. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
Combine Beef and Onions: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 lb of extra lean ground beef and 1/2 cup of diced onion using your hands.
Add Seasonings: Add 2 tbsp of brown sugar and 1 tbsp of Worcestershire sauce to the mixture.
Mix in Bread Crumbs and Egg: Add 1 cup of seasoned Italian bread crumbs and 1 egg to the meat mixture, continuing to mix with your hands until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Press Meat Mixture into Dish: Press the meat mixture evenly into an 8-inch square baking dish.
Spread Mashed Potatoes: Using a rubber spatula, spread the prepared mashed potatoes over the meat mixture.
Add Cheese and Bacon: Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese blend on top, followed by 1/4 cup of real bacon bits.
Step 5: Bake
Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Uncover and Continue Baking: Remove the foil and continue cooking for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Step 6: Serve
Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Valuable Tips for Seamless Cooking
Helpful Tip: Mixing the Meatloaf
Ensure you mix the meatloaf ingredients thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly. Using your hands is best for this.
Helpful Tip: Spreading the Potatoes
To spread the mashed potatoes evenly, use a rubber spatula and make sure the potatoes are slightly cooled to avoid sticking.
Helpful Tip: Cheese Melt
For an extra gooey cheese layer, use a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
