Description
Hearty cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole blends classic comfort with modern flavor twists. Meat lovers savor rich layers of ground beef, melted cheese, and crispy bacon that create satisfying family dinner magic.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (454 g) ground beef
- 1/2 lb (227 g) ground pork
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (optional, for topping)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Prepare a 9×13-inch baking vessel by lightly coating with cooking spray at 375F (190C).
- Amalgamate ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, finely diced onion, whisked egg, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a spacious mixing bowl until ingredients form a cohesive mixture.
- Distribute the meat blend uniformly across the prepared dish, pressing gently to create an even layer.
- Roast the meat foundation for 20-25 minutes, ensuring complete internal cooking and reaching a safe temperature.
- Carefully spread a uniform layer of creamy mashed potatoes atop the cooked meat foundation, creating a smooth surface.
- Generously cascade shredded cheddar cheese across the potato layer, covering the entire casserole surface.
- Return the assembled casserole to the oven, baking an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese melts completely and develops a golden, bubbling texture.
- Optional: Embellish with a delicate ketchup drizzle for enhanced flavor profile.
- Allow the casserole to rest and settle for 5 minutes before portioning and serving to enhance structural integrity.
Notes
- Blend meats thoroughly to ensure even flavor distribution and prevent dry patches in the meatloaf.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for a more tender texture, which helps keep the meat mixture moist and light.
- For a gluten-free version, swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond meal or crushed gluten-free crackers.
- Consider adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to boost nutrition and introduce extra moisture to the meat mixture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 704 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 730 mg
- Fat: 50 g
- Saturated Fat: 21 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 26 g
- Trans Fat: 1.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 23 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 45 g
- Cholesterol: 165 mg