Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and hearty twist on the classic meatloaf. With layers of savory meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheese, and crispy toppings, this casserole combines all your favorite flavors in one dish.
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It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy family gathering. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both nostalgic and exciting, this recipe is sure to hit the spot!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Skillet
- Potato masher or electric mixer
- Baking dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients Overview
- Ground Beef: The star of the dish, providing a hearty and savory base.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and fluffy, they create a perfect topping for the casserole.
- Cheese: A mix of cheddar and mozzarella ensures a rich, melty topping.
- Vegetables: Onions, garlic, and optional add-ins like peas or carrots enhance flavor and texture.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce bring depth to the meat mixture.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared fresh or leftover)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup milk (for mashed potatoes)
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, for mashed potatoes)
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits or crispy fried onions (optional topping)
- 2 tbsp parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Meatloaf Base
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly incorporated.
Cook the Meatloaf Layer
3. Press the meat mixture into a greased baking dish, forming an even layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the beef is fully cooked. Remove from the oven and drain any excess grease.
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
4. If not using leftovers, prepare mashed potatoes by boiling peeled potatoes until fork-tender. Mash with milk, butter (if desired), and a pinch of salt.
Assemble the Casserole
5. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake and Add Toppings
6. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. For extra crunch, sprinkle crispy fried onions or bacon bits over the cheese before serving.
Garnish and Serve
8. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Recipe Tips
- Make It Healthier: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to reduce calories.
- Use Leftovers: This dish is a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes or cooked vegetables.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Parmesan for a flavor twist.
What to Serve With This Recipe
- Green Salad: A crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs well with the richness of the casserole.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots make a nutritious complement.
- Dinner Rolls: Serve with warm rolls to scoop up every last bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Freeze the assembled casserole before baking, then thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf layer?
Yes, diced carrots, peas, or bell peppers work wonderfully for added texture and nutrition.
Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Skillet
- - Potato masher or electric mixer
- Baking dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
- 1 egg lightly beaten
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3 cups mashed potatoes prepared fresh or leftover
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup milk for mashed potatoes
- 1 tbsp butter optional, for mashed potatoes
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits or crispy fried onions optional topping
- 2 tbsp parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatloaf Base
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly incorporated.
- Cook the Meatloaf Layer
- Press the meat mixture into a greased baking dish, forming an even layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the beef is fully cooked. Remove from the oven and drain any excess grease.
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- If not using leftovers, prepare mashed potatoes by boiling peeled potatoes until fork-tender. Mash with milk, butter (if desired), and a pinch of salt.
- Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake and Add Toppings
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle crispy fried onions or bacon bits over the cheese before serving.
- Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
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