Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

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Introduction:

If you’re a fan of comfort food, this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Combining the savory flavors of a classic meatloaf with the creamy goodness of mashed potatoes, topped off with sharp cheddar cheese and crispy turkey bacon, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a hearty meal on a chilly evening, this casserole is easy to make and packed with flavor.

Overview of the Recipe:

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is a hearty, satisfying dish that layers a flavorful ground beef meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and a topping of melted cheddar cheese and crispy turkey bacon. The Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and onion in the meatloaf add depth of flavor, while the mashed potatoes bring a creamy, smooth texture. The final layer of cheese and turkey bacon adds a deliciously crispy and cheesy topping, making this casserole a complete meal in one dish.

History and Origin:

The concept of meatloaf dates back to ancient Rome, where various types of minced meat were mixed with spices and other ingredients to create a loaf. The modern American meatloaf became popular during the Great Depression as an economical way to stretch ground meat. This casserole version is a modern twist on the classic dish, combining the meatloaf with mashed potatoes and cheese, making it a convenient all-in-one meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups mashed potatoes
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ cup finely chopped white onion
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/3 cup crumbled cooked turkey bacon or “Turkey Bacon Bits”
  • 3 minced garlic cloves
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
  • 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400ÂşF (200ÂşC).

2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, and Worcestershire sauce. Use your hands or a couple of forks to mix the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring that the flavors are evenly distributed.
  2. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste.
  3. Add the egg to the mixture and mix well until fully incorporated. The egg acts as a binder, holding the meatloaf together.
  4. Mix in the Italian breadcrumbs and brown sugar, combining until the mixture has a consistent texture.

3. Assemble the Casserole:

  1. Lightly grease an 8-inch square baking pan to prevent sticking.
  2. Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating a compact layer that will form the base of your casserole.
  3. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf layer, smoothing them out with a spatula or the back of a spoon.

4. Add the Toppings:

  1. Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes.
  2. Top with the crumbled cooked turkey bacon or “Turkey Bacon Bits,” ensuring that the entire surface is covered.

5. Bake the Casserole:

  1. Cover the baking pan with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from burning during the initial baking period.
  2. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
  3. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown.

6. Serve:

  1. Once the casserole is fully baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
  2. Slice the casserole into portions and serve hot. Enjoy the layers of flavorful meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, and gooey, cheesy goodness.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions:

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables, such as green beans or broccoli, for a balanced meal. A simple garden salad with a light vinaigrette would also complement the richness of the casserole. For a comforting dinner, consider serving it with a warm, crusty bread or rolls to soak up any extra sauce from the meatloaf.

Variations of the Recipe:

  • Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture for a spicy twist.
  • Vegetable Mix-In: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini into the meatloaf mixture for added texture and nutrition.
  • Different Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for a unique flavor profile.
  • Low-Carb Option: Use mashed cauliflower instead of mashed potatoes for a low-carb alternative.
  • Barbecue Flavor: Replace the Worcestershire sauce with barbecue sauce for a tangy, smoky flavor.

Health Benefits and Notes:

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole provides a hearty meal with a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Ground beef is a good source of protein and essential nutrients such as iron and zinc. The mashed potatoes offer carbohydrates for energy, while the cheese and turkey bacon add calcium and flavor. To make this dish lighter, consider using lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and low-fat cheese. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or substitute it with a lower-calorie option.

FAQs:

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover it and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven until warmed through.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: What can I use instead of Italian breadcrumbs? A: If you don’t have Italian breadcrumbs, you can use plain breadcrumbs and add 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning or a mixture of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and parsley.

Q: Can I add vegetables to the mashed potatoes? A: Yes, you can fold in finely chopped vegetables like broccoli, peas, or spinach into the mashed potatoes before spreading them over the meatloaf for added nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion:

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is the perfect comfort food, combining the hearty goodness of meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and a cheesy, bacon-topped finish. This dish is easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend meal. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the suggested variations, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish, and relish in the comforting flavors it brings to your table.

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