Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole 

If you love the classic flavors of meatloaf but want something a little more indulgent, this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a game-changer! Packed with layers of savory meat, mashed potatoes, cheese, and bacon, it’s an ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf Layer:

1 ½ lbs ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1/2 cup milk
1 small onion (finely chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/4 cup ketchup

For the Potato Layer:

4 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup butter (softened)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon bits
2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Directions:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Prepare the Meatloaf Layer: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and ketchup. Mix until well combined. Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Bake the Meatloaf: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes or until the meatloaf is mostly cooked through.

Prepare the Potato Layer: In a medium bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, sour cream, butter, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Casserole: Once the meatloaf is partially cooked, remove it from the oven. Spread the mashed potato mixture evenly on top of the meatloaf layer.

Add the Cheese and Bacon: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and cooked bacon bits on top of the mashed potatoes.

Final Bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Let it sit for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole brings together all your favorite comfort food flavors in one hearty dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!