Name: Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs; 1/3 cup milk; 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cooked bacon crumbles; 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)

Imagine a meatloaf so rich and comforting, it practically melts on your plate. Now imagine layering that savory meatloaf with velvety mashed potatoes and gooey cheddar cheese, then finishing it off with a sprinkle of crispy bacon. That, my friend, is the magic of this Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole.

This recipe turns the classic meatloaf dinner into a hearty casserole that feels like the warm hug you didn’t know you needed. It’s the perfect blend of beefy goodness, creamy texture, and cheesy indulgence. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or prepping meals for the week, this dish delivers both comfort and flavor in every bite.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the recipe, let’s get your kitchen prepped with the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:

9×13 Baking Dish: Essential for even baking and layering. It allows the casserole to cook thoroughly and present beautifully.
Mixing Bowls (Large & Medium): Needed to combine your meat mixture and mashed potatoes without mess.
Skillet or Frying Pan: For browning any onions, garlic, or pre-cooking the bacon if you’re not using pre-cooked crumbles.

Spatula & Wooden Spoon: For mixing ingredients without overworking the meat.
Potato Masher or Hand Mixer: Smooth mashed potatoes are key to layering, and these tools help get that fluffy consistency.
Meat Thermometer (optional but helpful): To ensure the meat layer is cooked safely to 160°F.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole

Each ingredient plays a key role in building the savory, creamy, and comforting layers of this dish:

Ground Beef: The star of the show, providing hearty, rich flavor and substance to the casserole base.
Onion: Adds a sweet and savory depth to the meat layer.

Garlic: Enhances the beef with aromatic, bold flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatloaf mixture while adding texture.
Eggs: Acts as a binder to hold the meat mixture together.

Milk: Adds moisture to the meatloaf, ensuring it doesn’t dry out.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, smooth layer that complements the meat with comforting texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Melts into gooey goodness and brings that irresistible cheesy pull.

Cooked Bacon Crumbles: Adds crunch and smoky richness to finish the casserole.
Parsley (optional): For garnish and a touch of freshness.

How To Make the Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Base

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined – overmixing can lead to a dense meatloaf.

Step 2: Press and Bake the Meat Layer

Press the meat mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is mostly cooked through.

Step 3: Layer with Mashed Potatoes

While the meat base is baking, prepare or reheat your mashed potatoes. Once the meat layer is out of the oven, spread a thick, even layer of mashed potatoes over the top.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Bacon

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the mashed potatoes, then top with cooked bacon crumbles. Return the dish to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy

Once bubbling and golden, remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley if desired, slice into squares, and serve warm.

How to Serve and Store Your Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole

This Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole is best served fresh out of the oven when the cheese is still melted and the mashed potatoes are warm and fluffy. Pair it with a crisp side salad or roasted veggies for a balanced plate. It also goes wonderfully with a side of buttery dinner rolls or garlic bread.

To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely. Then, cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop it in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes until warmed through. This dish also freezes well – just wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this casserole ahead of time?

You can prep the meat layer and mashed potatoes a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Absolutely. While homemade mashed potatoes add more depth, quality instant potatoes work just fine in a pinch.

What kind of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but feel free to mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for added creaminess.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use certified GF breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers, and double-check all labels.

Can I swap the ground beef for another meat?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a meatloaf mix (beef-pork-veal) all work beautifully in this casserole.

How do I know when the meat is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temp of 160°F in the center of the meat layer before topping it.

Want More Casserole Ideas with a Twist?

If this Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole hit the spot, you’ll love exploring these other cozy and creative dishes:

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole – creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory flavor.
Mexican Cornbread Casserole – a bold twist with a cornbread base and spicy flair.

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole – layers of pasta, beef, and creaminess in every bite.
Cheesy Pizza Tater Tot Casserole – comfort food with a pizza-meets-potato spin.
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole – an easy, filling dish perfect for busy nights.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Life With Olivia on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use turkey or beef? Did you sneak in extra cheese or switch up the topping?

I love seeing how these recipes get personalized in kitchens everywhere. Got questions? Leave them below — let’s cook smarter together!

Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 8 servings

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Description

Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole takes your favorite comfort food and transforms it into a layered, cheesy, bacon-topped bake. This hearty dinner is perfect for family meals, leftovers, or make-ahead nights.