“Ah-mazing! My kids said it’s one of the best dinners I’ve ever made. Sure wasn’t expecting to hear that!”

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole transforms leftover mashed potatoes and ground beef into a comforting and flavorful one-dish meal. The savory meatloaf base is topped with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, creating a satisfying and easy casserole.

Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare Meatloaf Base: In a large bowl, combine the lean ground beef, finely chopped white onion, minced garlic, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Use two forks or your hands to gently mix the ingredients together.
3. Season Meatloaf: Season the meat mixture generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste.
4. Add Breadcrumbs and Egg: Work in the Italian breadcrumbs and the large egg into the ground beef mixture until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Layer in Baking Dish: Transfer the seasoned ground beef mixture to an 8-inch square baking dish. Press the meat evenly into the bottom of the dish to create a uniform layer.
6. Top with Mashed Potatoes: Spread the leftover (garlic) mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the ground beef layer in the baking dish.
7. Add Cheese and Bacon: Sprinkle the grated sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes. Then, sprinkle the cooked and crumbled bacon (or bacon bits) over the cheese.
8. Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
9. Bake Uncovered: After 30 minutes, carefully remove the aluminum foil from the baking dish. Continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
10. Cool Slightly and Serve: Let the Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole cool slightly before serving. Cut it into squares and enjoy this hearty and flavorful dish!