Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Say hello to true comfort food nirvana with this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe! Imagine a dish where savory meatloaf meets creamy mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh chives—all layered in one irresistible bake. There’s something uniquely satisfying about this casserole: it takes everything you love about a classic meatloaf dinner and loads it up with the flavors and textures of your favorite twice-baked potato. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, large gatherings, or whenever you just need a little extra coziness on your dining table.

Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at just how straightforward this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe is to pull together. Each ingredient has its special role, creating layers of taste, texture, and color that come together in delicious harmony.
- Ground beef (1 1/2 pounds, 85/15): Delivers hearty, juicy flavor as the foundation of the casserole.
- Breadcrumbs (1 cup): Help bind the meatloaf and keep it tender.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Adds moisture and ensures a delicate, soft crumb.
- Egg (1 large): Acts as the ultimate binder for a cohesive meat layer.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Amplifies all the savory notes throughout the dish.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a touch of warmth and subtle heat.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses a mellow garlicky depth into every bite.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Gives the meatloaf savory sweetness without the fuss of chopping.
- Ketchup (1/2 cup): Provides tangy sweetness that brings the meat together.
- Mashed potatoes (3 cups, prepared): Make the perfect fluffy layer for the ultimate loaded topping.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts for a luscious, gooey, golden top.
- Cooked bacon (6 slices, chopped): Adds salty crunch and an irresistible smoky finish.
- Chopped chives (2 tablespoons): Brighten everything up with a fresh, oniony zing.
How to Make Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent any sticking and make serving a breeze. This quick prep work ensures you’re ready to assemble and bake without any last-minute scrambles.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine your ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and that essential half cup of ketchup. Mixing by hand or with a spoon, blend these ingredients until just combined. The key here is not to overwork the meat—this keeps your Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe tender and juicy.
Step 3: Shape and Bake the Meatloaf Layer
Firmly press the meat mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to form a smooth base. Pop it in the oven and let it bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Once cooked, carefully drain any excess grease to keep your casserole from becoming soggy.
Step 4: Layer on the Mashed Potatoes
Spoon those luscious mashed potatoes right over the hot meatloaf, spreading them evenly to cover the entire surface. Whether you’re using leftovers or freshly whipped potatoes, this is where the comfort factor really doubles down.
Step 5: Add Cheese, Bacon, and Bake Again
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the mashed potatoes, then scatter the chopped bacon across the top. Return the dish to the oven for another 10–15 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly and your kitchen smells like pure happiness.
Step 6: Finish with Chives and Rest
Once out of the oven, shower your casserole with chopped fresh chives. This final step adds a burst of color and a gentle onion flavor that perfectly finishes the dish. Let it sit for about 5 minutes so everything sets up and is easier to slice and serve.
How to Serve Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh chives is a must for that classic loaded potato vibe, but you can also add sliced green onions, extra crispy bacon bits, or even a dollop of sour cream for extra decadence. These finishing touches add freshness, color, and restaurant-worthy appeal to your Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe.
Side Dishes
While this casserole is a complete meal on its own, it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or steam-sautéed green beans. The freshness and crunch of these sides balance the rich, hearty flavors of the Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe and complete the comfort food experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Portion the casserole into individual ramekins for a dinner party-worthy presentation, or cut hearty squares and stack on plates, garnished for a rustic family dinner. For a playful touch, offer your favorite hot sauce or extra toppings in small bowls for everyone to customize their own cheesy masterpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any uneaten portions cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Your leftovers will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making the Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe a fantastic meal-prep option for easy lunches or dinners.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze this casserole! Let the dish cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil or transfer slices to a freezer-safe container. It will stay fresh for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
For that fresh-from-the-oven taste, reheat your casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through and the cheese is bubbly. You can also microwave individual portions, but reheating in the oven preserves the texture of the potatoes and bacon for the best Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe experience.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work beautifully in this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe if you’re looking for a slightly lighter or poultry-forward twist. Just make sure the meat is cooked through and adjust seasoning to taste.
What’s the best way to prepare the mashed potatoes for this casserole?
Use leftover mashed potatoes if you have them, or whip up a quick batch while the meatloaf bakes. For especially creamy potatoes, blend in a touch of butter and milk. Yukon Gold potatoes give an especially rich, buttery flavor.
Can this be made gluten-free?
Yes, it’s so easy! Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and double-check that your other ingredients (like ketchup and seasonings) are gluten-free, and you’ll have a glorious gluten-free Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe to share.
How can I add more vegetables to this casserole?
Try mixing sauteed onions, bell peppers, or even finely chopped carrots and celery into your meatloaf mixture before baking. They’ll add flavor, moisture, and a pop of color without losing the comforting appeal of the dish.
Can I assemble this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare and layer everything up to the topping, then cover and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the initial baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dinner that’s loaded with flavor, texture, and pure comfort, this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe is your answer. It’s unfussy, family-friendly, and worthy of sharing at any gathering. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a staple in your recipe rotation—give it a try and share the deliciousness!
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Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this hearty and comforting Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole that combines classic meatloaf flavors with creamy mashed potatoes and savory toppings. A family-friendly dish perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Main Meatloaf Layer:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (85/15)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup ketchup
For the topping:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices cooked bacon (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and ketchup in a bowl. Press mixture into the baking dish.
- Bake Meatloaf: Bake for 25–30 minutes until cooked through.
- Add Toppings: Spread mashed potatoes over the meatloaf, top with cheddar cheese and bacon. Bake for 10–15 minutes until cheese melts.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle with chives, let sit for 5 minutes, then serve.
Notes
- Use leftover or fresh mashed potatoes for best results.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used as substitutes.
- Enhance flavor by adding sautéed onions or bell peppers to the meat mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 120mg