Description
This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish combining savory ground beef and pork seasoned with Italian herbs, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon. Perfect for a family dinner, it offers layers of rich flavor and satisfying textures all baked together in one easy casserole.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Base
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup ketchup (optional for added sweetness)
Mashed Potato Topping
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (about 3-4 large potatoes, peeled, boiled, and mashed)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 green onions, sliced, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Set 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, combine ground beef, ground pork, finely diced onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and dried Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Form Meatloaf Base: Press the seasoned meat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer that will serve as the base of your casserole.
- Optional Ketchup Layer and Initial Bake: Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the meatloaf mixture if desired for added sweetness. Bake the meatloaf for 20-25 minutes until it is mostly cooked through but not fully done.
- Prepare Mashed Potato Topping: While the meatloaf bakes, mix the mashed potatoes with sour cream and milk. Season this mixture with salt and pepper to taste, creating a smooth and creamy topping.
- Apply Toppings: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and evenly spread the mashed potato mixture over the meat layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled cooked bacon over the mashed potatoes.
- Final Bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles, and the casserole is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven, garnish with sliced green onions, and serve hot for a comforting and delicious meal.
Notes
- You can swap ground pork for ground turkey for a leaner option.
- For a spicier twist, add some chili flakes or hot sauce to the meat mixture.
- The casserole can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated before baking to enhance flavors.
- Mashed potatoes can be made with butter instead of sour cream if preferred.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
