Looking for a delicious and easy dinner idea? Try this Loaded Meatloaf Casserole! Combining savory meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, this comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s a family favorite that everyone will love. Discover the ultimate comfort food with this simple and satisfying recipe!
Ingredients:
- 3 cups leftover garlic mashed potatoes
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup white onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/3 cup bacon (cooked and crumbled) or bacon bits
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Preparation:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400ยบ F.
- Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the lean ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix using two forks or your hands until all ingredients are well combined. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper.
- Add Breadcrumbs and Egg: Work in the Italian breadcrumbs and large egg until the mixture holds together well.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the ground beef mixture into an 8-inch square baking dish. Press it into an even layer to form the base of your casserole.
- Layer with Mashed Potatoes: Spread the leftover garlic mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf layer.
- Top with Cheese and Bacon: Sprinkle the grated sharp cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes, followed by the crumbled bacon or bacon bits.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the aluminum foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this Loaded Meatloaf Casserole.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Loaded Meatloaf Casserole takes the classic meatloaf to a whole new level. The combination of juicy, flavorful ground beef with creamy mashed potatoes and the gooey richness of cheddar cheese creates a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. The addition of crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch and extra depth of flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- Leftover Mashed Potatoes: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes, but you can also make fresh mashed potatoes if needed.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack or mozzarella can also be great choices.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until you’re ready to bake it, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers, this Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a must-try recipe that brings together the best of comfort food. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your meal rotation!
Leave a Reply