Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole

Save this recipe on:

This Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup. It combines the juicy savoriness of classic meatloaf with rich, melty cheese and a creamy mashed potato base, all layered like a lasagna and topped with crispy bacon. Every bite delivers hearty satisfaction, with gooey cheese pulls and smoky bacon crunch that make it irresistible.

Think of it as a flavor-packed upgrade to your grandma’s meatloaf. It’s the kind of dish you make when you want to impress guests or treat your family to a feel-good dinner that feels like a warm hug. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers.

---

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole

• Layers of creamy mashed potatoes, juicy beef, and melty cheese
• Crispy bacon topping that adds smoky crunch
• Perfect for make-ahead dinners or potlucks
• Kid-friendly and adult-approved comfort food
• Easy to customize with your favorite cheeses or seasonings

---

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For this casserole, lean ground beef (85% or 90%) works best. It has enough fat for flavor without making the casserole greasy. If you only have higher-fat beef, just drain the excess after browning to keep the texture balanced.

---

Ingredients for the Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a role in creating that gooey, savory, cheesy magic.

• Ground Beef – The star of the dish, providing a hearty, meaty base.
• Yellow Onion – Adds aromatic sweetness and depth to the meat mixture.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – Boost the savory flavor profile.
• Ketchup – A tangy, slightly sweet note that brings meatloaf vibes.
• Mashed Potatoes – The creamy layer that makes this feel like a comfort food casserole.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully into the layers.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Adds that classic cheese pull.
• Crispy Bacon – Sprinkled on top for smoky crunch.
• Fresh Parsley – Optional, but brightens up the richness of the dish.

---

How To Make the Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are softened. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Season the Mixture

Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and ketchup. Simmer for 3-4 minutes to let the flavors blend. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Prepare Your Casserole Base

In a greased baking dish, spread a thick, even layer of mashed potatoes on the bottom. This forms the creamy foundation for your casserole.

Step 4: Add the Meat Layer

Spoon the seasoned beef mixture over the mashed potatoes, spreading it evenly.

Step 5: Cheese it Up

Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella generously over the beef layer.

Step 6: Top with Bacon

Crumble crispy cooked bacon over the cheese.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

---

How to Serve and Store Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole

This casserole serves 6 to 8 people generously, making it a perfect choice for family dinners, gatherings, or potlucks.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave in portions. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight before reheating.

---

What to Serve With Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole?

Garlic Green Beans

Light and garlicky, these cut the richness perfectly.

Honey Glazed Carrots

Sweet, tender carrots offer balance to the savory layers.

Simple Garden Salad

Crisp greens with a tangy vinaigrette add freshness.

Buttery Cornbread

The perfect bread side to soak up all the cheesy goodness.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

A crunchy, earthy side that adds depth to the plate.

Pickled Red Onions

A pop of acidity to cut through the creamy layers.

Classic Coleslaw

Creamy, crunchy contrast that refreshes the palate.

---

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you love this Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole, you’ll definitely want to try these flavor-packed creations:

• Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs – For when you want handheld meaty indulgence.
• Cheddar Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole – Extra cheesy, extra satisfying.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole – A creamy, protein-packed twist.
• Buffalo Chicken Lasagna – For those who like it spicy and cheesy.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta – One-pot creamy bliss.

---

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

I’d love to hear how your casserole turned out! Did you go with extra cheese? Maybe some hot sauce? Share your spin in the comments.

Explore even more satisfying, cozy recipes on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next go-to meal!

Print

Save this recipe on: