Dinner

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

Name: Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-489617H53M13S
Total time: PT-489617H53M13S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup milk; 1/4 cup finely chopped onion; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 cup ketchup (divided); 2 cups prepared mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled; 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives (optional)

ByJeannette Jaeger October 16, 2025October 16, 2025

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Introduction

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting twist on classic meatloaf. Layered with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar, and crispy bacon, it’s an easy, hearty meal perfect for family dinners.

A close-up view of a layered lasagna slice on a white plate, resting on a white marbled surface. The lasagna has three detailed layers of browned, crumbled ground meat alternating with melted white cheese that is gooey and stretches slightly. On top, there is a thick layer of bright orange melted cheese that glistens, covered with crispy, dark reddish-brown chopped bacon pieces and small green parsley bits scattered for garnish. The edges show the melted cheese slightly oozing down the sides. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup ketchup (divided)
2 cups prepared mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or an 8×8-inch dish for a thicker casserole.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the ketchup. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it to cover the bottom. Spread the remaining ketchup on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the meat is cooked through and no longer pink.
Step 4: Carefully spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, then add the crumbled bacon.
Step 5: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Remove from the oven, and sprinkle with green onions or chives, if desired. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

Use seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Add some finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture for added texture.
For a smoky touch, use smoked cheddar cheese.

Storage

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or rewarm the casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 15 minutes.

How to Serve

A close-up of a three-layer lasagna on a white plate, each layer showing alternating textures and colors: a yellow, smooth cheese layer on top dotted with small crispy bacon bits and green herbs; beneath it a thick, white melted cheese layer; followed by a dense, rich, and crumbly brown ground meat layer with juices dripping slightly. The top yellow cheese layer looks glossy and melted with a golden tint, garnished with small green herb pieces, while the meat is textured and moist. The lasagna edges reveal gooey melted cheese stretching slightly. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from chilled.