Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole (Print-Friendly Version)

Savory ground beef topped with mashed potatoes, cheddar, and bacon—a hearty family casserole favorite.

# Ingredients List:

→ Meatloaf Base

01 - 450 g ground beef
02 - 60 g breadcrumbs
03 - 1 large egg
04 - 60 ml milk
05 - 40 g finely chopped onion
06 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1 teaspoon salt
08 - 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
09 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
10 - 120 ml ketchup, divided

→ Topping

11 - 480 g prepared mashed potatoes
12 - 100 g shredded cheddar cheese
13 - 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
14 - 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives (optional)

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 190°C. Lightly grease a 23×23 cm or 20×20 cm baking dish.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, blend ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the ketchup until homogenous.
03 - Distribute the meat mixture evenly into the prepared dish, pressing to cover the bottom. Smooth remaining ketchup over the surface. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until fully cooked and juices run clear.
04 - Carefully spread mashed potatoes in an even layer over the baked meatloaf base. Scatter cheddar cheese over the potatoes, then top with crumbled bacon.
05 - Return the dish to the oven and bake for 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbling.
06 - Remove casserole from the oven. Finish with green onions or chives if desired. Allow to cool briefly before portioning and serving.

# Extra Tips:

01 - To prepare ahead, assemble the meatloaf layer and refrigerate. When ready to finish, top with potatoes and cheese, then bake as instructed.
02 - Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef to suit preference.