If you love hearty comfort food that hits all the right notes of cheesy, savory, and satisfying, this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole is calling your name. It’s everything you love about a traditional meatloaf dinner—beefy richness, creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheese—but layered in one deliciously baked dish. It’s the kind of meal that makes you go back for seconds (and maybe even thirds) without a second thought.

Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend gatherings, this casserole brings comfort to the table with minimal effort. It’s a one-pan wonder that feels like a full spread, with juicy meat, creamy layers, and a golden, bubbly topping. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is about to become a new household staple.

What Makes This Meatloaf Casserole So Special?

This dish is a hybrid of the best parts of meatloaf and loaded mashed potatoes. Instead of serving them separately, we bring them together in one pan. The result? A hearty, cheesy, flavor-packed meal that offers the nostalgic comfort of meatloaf with the indulgence of a creamy, cheesy potato topping.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Ground Beef
This is the base of the casserole, providing a rich, savory foundation. Use lean beef for less grease but still plenty of flavor.

Breadcrumbs
They help bind the meat together and give it that familiar meatloaf texture.

Eggs
These are essential to hold the meat mixture together while baking.

Onion and Garlic
Classic aromatics that deepen the savory flavor of the meat layer.

Worcestershire Sauce
A splash gives the beef a subtle tang and umami depth.

Mashed Potatoes
Creamy and fluffy, they create a luscious layer over the meat, turning the dish into a true casserole.

Cheddar Cheese
Melted throughout and on top for that gooey, golden crust.

Parsley
Fresh chopped parsley adds color and a hint of brightness as a garnish.

How To Make the Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Meatloaf Layer

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until well combined, then press the mixture into the bottom of a greased baking dish.

Step 2: Bake the Meat Layer

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and beginning to brown around the edges.

Step 3: Add the Mashed Potato Layer

While the meat is baking, prepare your mashed potatoes (or use leftovers!). Spread a generous layer of mashed potatoes over the cooked meatloaf base, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 4: Pile On the Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes. Don’t be shy—this is where that irresistible cheesy crust comes in.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling with golden brown spots.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and serve warm.

How to Serve and Store Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

This casserole is a meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables on the side. For a little extra flair, serve it with a drizzle of sour cream or hot sauce.

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. It also freezes well for up to 2 months when stored in an airtight container.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed and add a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes! Instant mashed potatoes are a great time-saver and work well as a topping for this casserole.

What other cheeses work for this recipe?

Feel free to mix in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.

Can I add vegetables to the meat layer?

Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or shredded carrots can be mixed into the meat layer for extra texture and nutrition.

How do I prevent the casserole from being greasy?

Use lean ground beef and drain off excess fat after baking the meat layer.

Want More Dinner Ideas with a Cheesy Twist?

If you love this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole, you’ll probably enjoy these other comforting favorites:

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add veggies or a spicy cheese blend? Maybe swapped in turkey or added bacon bits?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other make weeknight dinners easier and tastier!

Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

Author: Nina Johnson
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 10 minute
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Dinner

Print Recipe

Description

A cozy, family-friendly dinner that layers savory ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and a blanket of melted cheddar cheese into one easy-to-make casserole. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any night of the week.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
Press the meat mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until meat is cooked through.
Carefully spread mashed potatoes over the cooked meat layer.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes.
Return to oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.