Try This Easy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole for a Family Favorite Dinner

This Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. It combines the savory flavors of classic meatloaf with a rich, cheesy mashed potato topping. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and ideal for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• 9×13-inch casserole dish
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Large skillet (optional, for sautéing onions or veggies)

Ingredients Overview

• Ground Beef: The base of the meatloaf layer; ground turkey or chicken can also work.
• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy topping that adds heartiness and comfort.
• Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese melts into gooey perfection.
• Vegetables: Add chopped onions, bell peppers, or even corn for texture and flavor.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper enhance the taste of the casserole.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups mashed potatoes (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup milk (optional, for creamier mashed potatoes)
• 1/2 cup frozen peas or diced carrots (optional)
• 1 tablespoon ketchup (for topping)
• 1 tablespoon parsley (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Cook the Meat (Optional):
   • If desired, sauté the meat mixture in a skillet over medium heat until browned. This step ensures even cooking and reduces grease in the casserole.
4. Layer the Meat:
   • Spread the ground beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the casserole dish. If adding peas or carrots, layer them on top of the meat.
5. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
   • If using store-bought mashed potatoes, heat them slightly and mix in a splash of milk for creaminess. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat layer.
6. Add the Cheese:
   • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.
7. Top It Off:
   • Drizzle ketchup over the top, creating a lattice design or simply spreading it lightly.
8. Bake:
   • Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve:
   • Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Recipe Tips

• Customize the Veggies: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn to the meat layer for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Make It Spicy: Mix in a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper for a kick.
• Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes: This is a great way to repurpose leftovers.

What to Serve With This Recipe

• Salad: A crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
• Green Beans: Steamed or roasted green beans pair perfectly with this hearty dish.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are great for soaking up any extra flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! Freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, instant mashed potatoes are a quick and convenient option for this recipe.

Serving Suggestions

This Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a meal in itself but pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed veggies for a complete dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!

Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

This Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. It combines the savory flavors of classic meatloaf with a rich, cheesy mashed potato topping.

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Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• 9x13 inch casserole dish
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Large skillet (optional, for sautéing onions or veggies)

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups mashed potatoes store-bought or homemade
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup milk optional, for creamier mashed potatoes
• 1/2 cup frozen peas or diced carrots optional
• 1 tablespoon ketchup for topping
• 1 tablespoon parsley optional, for garnish

Instructions

 

• Preheat the Oven:
• Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
• Prepare the Meat Mixture:
• In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
• Cook the Meat (Optional):
• If desired, sauté the meat mixture in a skillet over medium heat until browned. This step ensures even cooking and reduces grease in the casserole.
• Layer the Meat:
• Spread the ground beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the casserole dish. If adding peas or carrots, layer them on top of the meat.
• Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
• If using store-bought mashed potatoes, heat them slightly and mix in a splash of milk for creaminess. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat layer.
• Add the Cheese:
• Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.
• Top It Off:
• Drizzle ketchup over the top, creating a lattice design or simply spreading it lightly.
• Bake:
• Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Serve:
• Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley if desired.