Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

If you’re in the mood for comfort food that feels like a celebration and feeds a crowd, let me introduce you to Loaded Meatloaf Casserole. This dish takes everything you love about classic meatloaf, piles on creamy mashed potatoes, loads it up with cheese, bacon, and green onions, and bakes it all together into one bubbling, soul-satisfying meal. It’s rich, savory, and gloriously over-the-top in the best way. Whether you’re feeding your family on a cozy weeknight or gathering friends for a casual get-together, Loaded Meatloaf Casserole always hits the spot.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this casserole brings something special, whether it’s richness, texture, or that craveable finishing touch. Don’t let the list fool you; most of these are pantry staples, and when they come together, you get a truly indulgent dish.

• Ground Beef: The hearty, savory base of your meatloaf that gives the casserole its classic flavor.
• Ground Pork: Adds a touch of juiciness and depth, making the meatloaf extra tender.
• Onion (finely chopped): Brings a gentle sweetness and subtle crunch to the meat mixture.
• Breadcrumbs: Help bind the meatloaf together, keeping it moist and sliceable.
• Milk: Softens the breadcrumbs and keeps the meatloaf from drying out.
• Large Egg: Essential for holding the meatloaf together as it bakes.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Gives a boost of umami and tang that rounds out the flavors.
• Salt: Makes all the other flavors pop (don’t be shy with it)!
• Black Pepper: Adds just the right hint of warmth.
• Garlic Powder: A little goes a long way for depth of flavor.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, fluffy, and the perfect comfort-food layer on top of the meatloaf.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts into gooey, golden deliciousness over the potatoes.
• Cooked, Crumbled Bacon: Smoky, crispy bites of joy in every slice.
• Chopped Green Onions: A sprinkle of fresh, zesty contrast to all the richness.

How to Make Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven works its magic, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures that nothing sticks and that each serving has crispy edges and a perfectly set base.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Layers

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix everything gently with your hands or a spoon. Avoid overmixing, or you’ll lose that tender meatloaf texture and it might get dense.

Step 3: Press into the Dish

Evenly press your meat mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Take a moment to get it right into the corners and make it as even as you can—this helps it cook consistently and gives you nice, uniform slices of Loaded Meatloaf Casserole.

Step 4: Layer on the Mashed Potatoes

Spread the mashed potatoes over the meat layer as evenly as possible. Listen, you don’t have to fuss if they’re not perfectly smooth—those little swirls and peaks will develop golden spots as they bake, giving your casserole even more character.

Step 5: Add Cheese, Bacon, and Green Onions

Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes, then scatter the crumbled bacon evenly on top. Finish it off with chopped green onions for that pop of color and freshness, setting this Loaded Meatloaf Casserole apart from anything you’ve had before.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re looking for bubbling cheese, a little browning on top, and a fully cooked meat base. The aroma at this stage is always guaranteed to get everyone peeking into the kitchen!

Step 7: Cool, Slice, and Serve

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes once it comes out of the oven. This makes slicing a breeze and helps set all those delicious layers. Serve hot, and get ready for repeat requests!

How to Serve Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Garnishes

The right garnish really makes Loaded Meatloaf Casserole sing. I love an extra sprinkle of green onion, maybe a touch more bacon, and even a little fresh cracked pepper. You could drizzle with a bit of sour cream for a baked potato twist!

Side Dishes

This casserole is plenty hearty all on its own, but for a complete meal, serve alongside crisp green beans, a bright garden salad, or roasted broccoli. The freshness balances that rich, cheesy base perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

You can scoop Loaded Meatloaf Casserole straight from the dish for rustic comfort, but for guests, try slicing into squares and stacking on a platter. Or, use a small ring mold for individual portions at your next dinner party to show off those distinct layers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Loaded Meatloaf Casserole keeps beautifully in the fridge. Wrap the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer leftovers into airtight containers. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days and even tastes better the next day as all those flavors meld.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, this casserole freezes wonderfully. Let it cool completely, slice into portions, and store in freezer-safe containers. For best results, freeze without the green onion garnish and add it fresh after reheating.

Reheating

To bring your leftover Loaded Meatloaf Casserole back to life, reheat covered in a 350°F oven until hot throughout, or use the microwave in short bursts. If you’re reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use all beef instead of beef and pork?

Absolutely! While the pork adds extra juiciness, you can use all ground beef if you prefer or if that’s what you have on hand. The flavors will still be amazing in your Loaded Meatloaf Casserole.

What’s the best way to make mashed potatoes for this recipe?

Use your favorite homemade mashed potatoes for the best results, but if time is short, store-bought refrigerated or even instant mashed potatoes work well. Just make sure they’re creamy enough to spread easily.

Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf layer?

Definitely! Finely chopped mushrooms, carrots, or bell peppers can be mixed into the meat for extra nutrition and flavor. Just avoid adding too much moisture, or the meatloaf might not hold together as well.

Is there a way to make Loaded Meatloaf Casserole gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and double-check that your Worcestershire sauce is certified gluten-free. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

How can I tell when the casserole is done baking?

You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbling, and the meat layer reaches an internal temperature of at least 160°F. Letting it rest before slicing ensures the layers stay beautiful.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend trying this Loaded Meatloaf Casserole enough. It’s gorgeously comforting, guaranteed to bring cheers to your table, and one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again. Gather your loved ones and give it a go—you’ll be glad you did!

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