Description
This cozy Meatloaf Casserole recipe combines juicy ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and a gooey cheese topping for the ultimate comfort meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday family dinners, this make-ahead dish is hearty, easy, and guaranteed to become a new favorite.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Layer
1½ lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
1 small onion, finely diced
1 large egg
¾ cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers/panko)
½ cup milk
¼ cup ketchup
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Mashed Potato Topping
3 large russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
4 tbsp butter
½ cup milk or cream (warmed)
½ tsp salt
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Optional: chopped chives or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch casserole dish.
Mix the Meatloaf – In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
Form the Base – Press the mixture evenly into your prepared dish to form a smooth meatloaf layer.
Bake the Meatloaf – Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until nearly cooked through.
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes – While baking, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender (about 15 minutes). Drain, mash with butter, warm milk, and salt until creamy.
Assemble the Casserole – Spread the mashed potatoes over the baked meatloaf layer. Smooth the top and sprinkle evenly with shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake Again – Return to the oven for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
Serve – Let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with chives or parsley before serving warm.
Notes
Make Ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready.
Freezing: Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Variations: Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or add a spoonful of BBQ sauce for smoky flavor.
Storage: Keeps in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat covered at 350°F until warmed through.
Cheese Options: Use mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a creamier topping.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 730 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 115 mg
