Description
This hearty and delicious casserole combines a flavorful meatloaf base topped with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Meatloaf Base:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
For the Topping:
- 2 cups prepared mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch or 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Make the Meatloaf Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the ketchup. Mix until well combined.
- Form and Bake the Meatloaf Base: Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it to cover the bottom. Spread the remaining ketchup on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and no longer pink.
- Add the Topping: Carefully spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, then add the crumbled bacon.
- Bake Again: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with green onions or chives if desired. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use leftover mashed potatoes for a quicker prep, or make fresh mashed potatoes to your liking.
- You can swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
- For a low-carb option, you can substitute the mashed potatoes with cauliflower mash.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Category: Casserole, Meatloaf
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Meatloaf casserole, cheesy meatloaf, loaded casserole, mashed potatoes, comfort food, bacon casserole, cheesy dinner