Description
This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole combines savory ground beef with flavorful spices and a creamy mashed potato topping, all finished with melted cheddar cheese. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, this hearty casserole is a comforting meal that serves six and brings the classic meatloaf experience in an easy-to-serve dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Toppings
- 2 ½ cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked spiced sausage, crumbled
- ¼ cup chopped green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Shape Meatloaf Layer: Press the meat mixture evenly into the greased baking dish, forming a uniform layer to ensure even cooking.
- Bake Meatloaf: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the meatloaf is fully cooked through and no longer pink inside.
- Add Mashed Potato Layer: Remove the dish from the oven and spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf layer for a creamy topping.
- Top with Cheese and Sausage: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes. Then add the crumbled cooked spiced sausage for extra flavor and texture.
- Melt Cheese Topping: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Add Final Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
- Serve: Slice the casserole into six to eight portions and enjoy warm as a comforting, hearty meal.
Notes
- For a spicier twist, use hot sausage instead of mild for the topping.
- You can prepare mashed potatoes from scratch or use store-bought for convenience.
- This casserole can be assembled a day ahead and refrigerated; just adjust baking time slightly if baking from cold.
- Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or oven for a quick meal the next day.
- Optional green onions add fresh flavor and crunch, but can be omitted if preferred.
