Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with Vegetables

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with Vegetables is a comforting and hearty twist on a classic meatloaf recipe. This dish combines tender layers of seasoned ground beef and pork, creamy mashed potatoes, crisp vegetables, and melty cheddar cheese for a satisfying meal your whole family will love. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or a comforting weekend treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• All-in-One Meal: Protein, veggies, and mashed potatoes in one dish make this a complete, balanced meal.
• Cheesy Goodness: Loaded with cheddar cheese for a gooey, irresistible flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting classic with a fun, cheesy twist.
• Customizable: Swap out veggies or proteins to suit your family’s preferences.
• Great for Leftovers: Tastes just as good the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ lb ground pork
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
• ½ cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• ¼ cup green onions, sliced

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Layer: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Form the Base: Press the meat mixture into an even layer in the prepared baking dish.
4. Bake the Meat Layer: Bake in the oven for 20 minutes or until the meatloaf layer is partially cooked.
5. Add the Mashed Potato Layer: While the meatloaf is baking, mix the mashed potatoes with milk until smooth. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the partially cooked meatloaf.
6. Top with Cheese and Bacon: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes, followed by the cooked, crumbled bacon.
7. Bake Again: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with green onions before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Veggie Add-Ins: Mix in cooked peas, carrots, or corn to the mashed potato layer for added texture and flavor.
• Turkey Version: Swap out the beef and pork for ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-friendly.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for extra heat.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese and almond milk to adapt the recipe for dairy-free diets.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave or cover the casserole dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-made mashed potatoes?

Yes, store-bought mashed potatoes work perfectly for this recipe and save time.

2. What kind of cheese works best?

Cheddar cheese is classic, but you can also use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses.

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

4. What’s the best way to chop the onion?

Finely dice the onion to ensure it cooks evenly and blends well into the meat mixture.

5. How do I ensure the meatloaf stays tender?

Avoid overmixing the meat mixture, as this can make the meatloaf dense. Mix just until combined.

6. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, use a plant-based ground meat substitute and vegetable broth for the mashed potatoes.

7. Can I skip the bacon?

Of course! The bacon is optional and can be omitted if preferred.

8. What side dishes pair well with this casserole?

A fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread complement this casserole nicely.

9. How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?

The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the internal temperature of the meatloaf should reach 160°F.

10. Can I use ground chicken instead of beef and pork?

Yes, ground chicken is a lighter option that works well in this recipe.

Conclusion

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with Vegetables is the ultimate comfort food dish. With layers of savory meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, and melty cheese, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, this casserole is sure to become a go-to favorite!

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