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
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
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
