If you’re seeking a hearty, family-friendly meal that combines the best of comfort food with a modern twist, look no further than the Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole. This dish transforms humble ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying one-pan meal that’s sure to impress.
🧀 Ingredients
To prepare this delectable casserole, gather the following ingredients:
- Leftover mashed potatoes: 3 cups (preferably garlic mashed potatoes for added flavor)
- Lean ground beef: 1 pound
- White onion: 1/2 cup, finely chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, mincedilovefood.website
- Brown sugar: 2 tablespoons, packed
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Italian breadcrumbs: 1 cup
- Large egg: 1
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups, gratedilovefood.website
- Bacon: 1/3 cup, cooked and crumbled (or use bacon bits)ilovefood.website
- Kosher salt: To tastePinterest+2ilovefood.website+2trendsnews66.com+2
- Freshly ground black pepper: To taste
👩🍳 Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.ilovefood.website
- Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Italian breadcrumbs, and the egg.
- Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.ilovefood.website
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the meatloaf mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, pressing it into an even layer.
- Spread the leftover mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf layer, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the grated sharp cheddar cheese generously over the mashed potatoes.
- Top with the crumbled bacon or bacon bits, ensuring an even distribution.ilovefood.website
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
- Garnish with additional chopped herbs, if desired, and enjoy this comforting meal with your loved ones.
🧠 Tips for Success
- Leftover Mashed Potatoes: Utilizing leftover mashed potatoes not only saves time but also enhances the flavor of the dish.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, to customize the flavor profile.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like peas or carrots into the meatloaf mixture for added nutrition and color.ilovefood.website
- Spice It Up: For a kick of heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, serve alongside crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up any delicious sauce.
Whether you’re looking to use up leftovers or create a new family favorite, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Its comforting flavors and satisfying textures make it a meal that everyone will enjoy.