Description
This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for family dinners. Combining seasoned ground beef with a creamy mashed potato topping and melted cheddar cheese, it delivers rich flavors and a satisfying texture. Easy to prepare and baked in one dish, this casserole is sure to become a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Topping
- 2 ½ cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked spiced sausage, crumbled
- ¼ cup chopped green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Form Meatloaf Layer: Press the meat mixture evenly into the greased baking dish, forming a compact, even layer.
- Bake Meatloaf: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked through and reaches a safe internal temperature.
- Add Mashed Potato Topping: Evenly spread the prepared mashed potatoes over the cooked meatloaf layer in the baking dish.
- Add Cheese Layer: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes layer.
- Bake to Melt Cheese: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Garnish: Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions if using, adding a fresh and mild onion flavor.
- Serve: Slice the casserole into portions and enjoy warm.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use leftover mashed potatoes or instant mashed potatoes to save time.
- Ensure meatloaf is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety.
- Spiced sausage adds extra flavor, but can be omitted or replaced with cooked bacon or ham.
- Green onions are optional but add a nice fresh contrast.
