When it comes to comforting home-cooked meals that are crowd-pleasers, cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole hits all the right notes. This dish combines the nostalgic flavors of traditional meatloaf with the creamy goodness of mashed potatoes and a mouthwatering layer of cheese. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress at a weekend gathering, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, the easy preparation makes it an ideal choice for busy cooks.
Why you’ll love this dish
You’ll find endless reasons to fall in love with cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole. It’s hearty, satisfying, and incredibly easy to whip up, making it a perfect addition to your weeknight meal rotation. Not only does it tick all the boxes for flavor and comfort, but it is also budget-friendly—ideal for families looking to stretch their dollars without sacrificing taste. Kids absolutely adore this dish, making mealtime a hassle-free affair.
“This is my go-to comfort food! The kids clean their plates every time, and I love how simple it is to make!” – Happy Home Cook
How this recipe comes together
Making cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole is straightforward. First, you’ll prepare the luscious meat mixture packed with flavor from onions, garlic, and crumbled bacon. Next, it’s layered in a baking dish and topped with creamy mashed potatoes. A sprinkle of cheese on top gives it that delightful gooeyness we all crave. Once baked, it’s golden and fragrant, perfect for dishing out at the dinner table. Let’s dive into the details.
What you’ll need
To make this scrumptious casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (you can use leftovers or store-bought)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup chopped white onion
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup crumbled bacon (cooked)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound lean ground beef
Each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving the dish’s rich flavor and creamy texture. You can also swap in turkey or plant-based ground meat for a lighter option or to make it vegetarian.
