Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
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If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that combines the best of all your favorite comfort foods, look no further than this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe. Imagine a juicy, savory meatloaf base packed with aromatic herbs and spices, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, then crowned with melty cheddar cheese and a touch of spicy sausage for an extra burst of flavor. This dish is pure home-cooked happiness in a casserole dish, balancing textures and tastes in a way that will have everyone asking for seconds. The Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s as simple as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe is a breeze thanks to its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a key role, from building a juicy, flavorful meatloaf foundation to creating that smooth, cheesy topping that elevates the whole dish.
- Ground beef (1 ½ lbs): The rich, meaty base that forms the heart of this casserole, providing both flavor and protein.
- Breadcrumbs (½ cup): Helps bind the meat mixture together while adding a pleasant texture.
- Large egg (1): Acts as a natural glue to keep the meatloaf firm but tender.
- Milk (¼ cup): Adds moisture to the meat mixture, keeping it juicy.
- Onion, finely chopped (½ cup): Brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the savory profile.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Infuses the meatloaf with a warm, aromatic punch.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp): Adds a savory, umami boost that enhances the beef flavor.
- Salt (1 tsp): Essential to bring out all the flavors harmoniously.
- Black pepper (½ tsp): Adds just the right amount of mild heat and balance.
- Italian seasoning (1 tsp): Delivers a blend of herbs that complement the meat and cheese beautifully.
- Mashed potatoes (2 ½ cups, prepared): Creamy and smooth, they form the perfect pillow for melted cheddar.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): The star topping that melts into golden, gooey perfection.
- Cooked spiced sausage, crumbled (½ cup): Offers a bold, spicy contrast that elevates the casserole.
- Chopped green onions (¼ cup, optional): Adds a fresh, mild onion crunch and a pop of color.
How to Make Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
Kick things off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your meatloaf won’t stick and is ready to turn golden and juicy.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix everything until just combined—overmixing can make the meatloaf tough, so be gentle!
Step 3: Form the Meatloaf Layer
Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This will create a solid, flavorful base layer for your casserole and helps cook everything evenly.
Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. This step cooks the meatloaf through but leaves room for the remaining layers you’ll add next.
Step 5: Add Mashed Potatoes
Once the meatloaf is baked, carefully spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the top. The creamy potatoes create a beautiful, comforting layer that pairs perfectly with the seasoned beef beneath.
Step 6: Sprinkle on Cheese and Sausage
Distribute the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes, and sprinkle the crumbled spiced sausage on top. The cheese will melt and bubble into a luscious, golden crust, while the sausage adds a delightfully spicy kick.
Step 7: Finish Baking
Return your casserole to the oven and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. This final bake ties all the flavors and textures together beautifully.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
If you’re using green onions, sprinkle them over the warm casserole just before serving. They add a fresh crunch and a vibrant green color that makes the dish even more inviting.
How to Serve Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
The green onions are a classic finishing touch, but you can also try a handful of fresh parsley or a dash of smoked paprika to amp up the visual appeal and flavor. These simple additions brighten the dish and provide fresh contrast to the rich casserole.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty casserole with a crisp side salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or steamed green beans with a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing bite. The balance of fresh vegetables complements the comforting layers of this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving guests or want to elevate the meal, consider scooping individual portions into small ramekins for cute, personal casseroles. Alternatively, add an extra cheesy layer by topping the casserole with mozzarella or pepper jack to add a gooey twist that everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole’s flavors continue to meld, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully! Wrap the casserole tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months for hassle-free future meals.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again. Microwaving works in a pinch but can make the mashed potatoes a bit dense, so the oven is usually best to maintain texture.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a leaner option and works well with the spices and toppings. Just be sure to watch the baking time as turkey can dry out quicker.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes. Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time before baking?
You sure can. Assemble the entire casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and keep it in the fridge. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the cold.
What kind of mashed potatoes work best?
Homemade creamy mashed potatoes are ideal, but store-bought or instant mashed potatoes can be used in a pinch. The key is to keep them smooth and creamy for the best topping consistency.
Can I omit the sausage or substitute it?
Of course! The sausage adds a spicy note, but you can leave it out or swap it for cooked bacon, ham, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that brings all your favorite comfort flavors together in one pan, and this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe does just that with ease and flavor. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, it’s sure to become a go-to in your meal rotation. So, what are you waiting for? Dive into this cheesy, hearty delight and watch it brighten your dinner table and your day!
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Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Featuring a savory ground beef meatloaf base layered with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and flavorful spiced sausage, this casserole combines classic comfort food flavors in a simple, baked format that’s sure to satisfy the whole family.
Ingredients
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
Toppings
- 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 and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning until evenly mixed.
- Press Mixture into Dish: Transfer the meat mixture to the greased baking dish and press it down evenly to form a solid meatloaf layer.
- Bake Meatloaf Layer: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Add Mashed Potatoes: Remove the partially baked meatloaf from the oven and carefully spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the top layer.
- Sprinkle Cheese and Sausage: Top the mashed potatoes with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled cooked spiced sausage for added flavor and texture.
- Bake Until Cheese Melts: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Garnish: Optional—sprinkle chopped green onions over the top to add freshness and a mild onion flavor.
- Serve: Slice the casserole into portions and serve warm for a comforting and delicious meal.
Notes
- Use leftover mashed potatoes or instant mashed potatoes for convenience.
- The spiced sausage adds a nice kick, but feel free to substitute with plain cooked sausage or omit for a milder flavor.
- Make sure the meat is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and baked fresh when ready to serve.
- For a lower-fat option, use lean ground beef and reduced-fat cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
