Description
A comforting and hearty Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole featuring a flavorful ground beef base topped with creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a satisfying family dinner with simple ingredients and easy preparation.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until evenly mixed.
- Shape in Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and press the meat mixture evenly into the dish to form the base layer.
- Bake Meatloaf Layer: Place the dish in the oven and bake the meat mixture for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked through and no longer pink inside.
- Add Mashed Potatoes: Carefully remove the dish from the oven and spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meat layer.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the layer of mashed potatoes.
- Bake Again: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly and golden.
- Rest and Garnish: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a fresh finishing touch.
Notes
- Ensure the meat is cooked through by checking that it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- You can prepare mashed potatoes from scratch or use store-bought for convenience.
- For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the meat mixture.
- This casserole can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted with crushed crackers or oats if preferred.
