Description
Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a modern twist on a classic comfort dish, bringing layers of meat, mashed potatoes, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon together for a hearty meal. With its combination of flavors, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It evokes the nostalgia of traditional comfort foods while offering customizable options to suit different dietary needs.
1 lb ground beef
1/2 lb ground pork
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup milk
1 large egg
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
2 cups mashed potatoes
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
1/4 cup chopped green onions
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Combine ground beef, pork, onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until just combined.
3. Press mixture into baking dish. Layer mashed potatoes, cheese, bacon, and green onions.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Kcal: 450 kcal
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Base: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with oil or non-stick spray. In a large mixing bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in the milk for 5 minutes to create a panade, which ensures a moist meatloaf.
2. Mix the Meat: To the bowl with the breadcrumb mixture, add the ground beef, ground pork, finely chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Using your hands or a fork, mix until the ingredients are just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the final dish dense.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking dish. Press it down firmly and evenly to form a solid base layer. Carefully spread the mashed potatoes over the meat in an even layer. Top with the shredded cheddar cheese, followed by the crumbled bacon.
4. Bake and Garnish: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with lighter sides to balance its richness. Consider serving it with a crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or roasted carrots. For a true comfort food feast, add a side of buttery dinner rolls to soak up any delicious juices.
How-to Summary
In summary, create this casserole by mixing beef, pork, and seasonings, pressing it into a dish, layering with potatoes, cheese, and bacon, and baking until golden. The key steps are avoiding overmixing the meat, ensuring even layers, and letting it rest before serving for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use only ground beef? Yes, you can substitute the ground pork with an additional 1/2 lb of ground beef for a simpler version, though the pork adds valuable fat and flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish, covered with foil, in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes? For convenience, yes. Prepare 2 cups of instant mashed potatoes according to package directions before assembling the casserole.
Is there a way to make this lighter? You can use lean ground meats, low-fat cheese, turkey bacon, and cauliflower mash instead of traditional mashed potatoes to reduce the calorie count.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Meat: This activates the proteins and can result in a tough, dense texture. Mix only until ingredients are incorporated.
- Using Cold Mashed Potatoes: Cold potatoes are stiff and difficult to spread smoothly, which can tear the meat layer. Use room-temperature or warm potatoes for easy layering.
- Skipping the Rest Time: Cutting into the casserole immediately after baking causes it to fall apart. Letting it rest for 5-10 minutes allows it to set for cleaner slices.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole successfully reimagines a family classic into a layered, crowd-pleasing dish. It combines savory meat, creamy potatoes, and rich toppings for the ultimate comfort food experience. By following the detailed guide and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and customize it to your taste. It’s a reliable, satisfying recipe perfect for any night you need a hearty, delicious meal on the table.