Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food casserole that layers hearty ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and gooey melted cheese in one dish. Topped with crispy bacon and a sprinkle of parsley, this recipe delivers a savory trifecta that will have your family coming back for seconds every time.


Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or preparing an indulgent weeknight dinner, this layered meatloaf is a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple enough for beginners and flexible enough to tweak to your liking, from switching up cheeses to sneaking in extra veggies. Every bite is a little slice of classic American comfort.
What Kind of Cheese Should I Use?
For that golden, melty topping, sharp cheddar cheese is the go-to choice, giving the perfect punch of flavor. However, you can also mix in mozzarella for a stretchy pull or Monterey Jack for a creamy finish. If you want to spice things up, pepper jack is a great swap that melts beautifully and adds a gentle kick.
Ingredients for the Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese
Ground beef – The juicy foundation of the dish, offering a rich, meaty base.
Onion and garlic – These aromatics bring depth and a subtle sweetness that infuse the meat with flavor.
Breadcrumbs – They help bind the meat together and keep it tender.
Eggs – Act as a binder for the meatloaf, helping it hold shape when sliced.
Worcestershire sauce – A splash adds that umami-rich, savory punch.
Mashed potatoes – Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes layer beautifully on top and balance the savory meat.
Cheddar cheese – Melted into the mashed layer and sprinkled on top for that irresistible crust.
Cooked bacon – Adds salty crunch and flavor on top.
Fresh parsley – A bright finishing touch to bring it all together.
How To Make the Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Base
Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined, then press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Bake the Meatloaf
Bake the meat mixture uncovered for about 25-30 minutes or until it’s cooked through and firm. While it’s baking, start making your mashed potatoes.
Step 3: Make the Mashed Potato Layer
Boil peeled and diced potatoes until fork-tender. Drain and mash with butter, cream (or milk), salt, and a bit of garlic powder for flavor. You can also fold in some shredded cheddar cheese at this point for extra cheesiness.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Once the meatloaf is cooked, spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top. Sprinkle a generous amount of cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes, then top with crumbled cooked bacon.
Step 5: Broil to Finish
Place the casserole back in the oven and broil for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serving and Storing This Cheesy Meatloaf Bake
Serve this dish hot, straight from the oven, while the cheese is still gooey and the edges are slightly crispy. It’s hearty enough to be a meal on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or simple side.
To store, let the leftovers cool completely. Then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave until heated through.
What to Serve With Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese?
Steamed Green Beans
Their freshness and snap contrast perfectly with the richness of the casserole.
Roasted Carrots with Thyme
Add a little sweetness and color to your plate.
Creamy Coleslaw
Crunchy, tangy coleslaw adds balance to the creamy textures.
Buttery Dinner Rolls
Perfect for soaking up any juices left on the plate.
Crisp Apple Salad
Something sweet and tart can lift the savory flavors beautifully.
Want More Comfort Food Casserole Ideas?
If you’re loving the cozy feel of this meatloaf bake, try these satisfying dishes next:
- Easy Shepherd’s Pie when you’re craving a traditional layered comfort dish.
- Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes for an ultra-cheesy potato fix.
- Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken if you want a Southern classic done right.
- Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken for hands-off, cheesy, creamy chicken joy.
- Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gravy when you need something warm and ready by dinner.
Save This Pin For Later
Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.
Tried it with a twist? Maybe a spicy cheese blend or topped it with scallions? Let us know how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on Savor Queen on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.
Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
If you’re craving a hearty meal that satisfies every layer of comfort, this Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese is your answer. Imagine seasoned ground beef baked to juicy perfection, topped with buttery mashed potatoes and finished with a bubbly cheddar cheese crust. Crispy bacon crowns the top for a salty crunch, while fresh herbs bring balance. It’s a perfect go-to for easy dinners, crowd-feeding, or weekend comfort meals. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea or a new casserole to add to your recipe box, this dish delivers bold flavors and creamy textures that make it unforgettable. Great for those looking for easy dinner ideas, family comfort food, or weeknight recipes that please everyone.
Ingredients
450g ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
60g breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
900g potatoes, peeled and diced
60ml milk or cream
60g butter
120g shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for potatoes)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until fully cooked.
5. While the meatloaf bakes, boil potatoes until fork-tender, then mash with butter, milk or cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Spread mashed potatoes over the cooked meatloaf.
7. Sprinkle with remaining cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
8. Broil for 3–5 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
For a creamier mashed potato layer, add sour cream or cream cheese.
You can substitute turkey or pork for ground beef for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: easy dinner, comfort food, mashed potato casserole, cheesy meatloaf, family meals
