Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
“Ah-mazing! My kids said it’s one of the best dinners I’ve ever made. Sure wasn’t expecting to hear that!”
### Cheesy Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the richness of meatloaf with a delicious layer of cheesy mashed potatoes, topped with crispy bacon. It’s a perfect way to use up leftover mashed potatoes and makes a hearty dinner that everyone will love.
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#### **Ingredients**
– **3 cups leftover garlic mashed potatoes** – For a flavorful mashed potato topping. Regular mashed potatoes can be used too.
– **1 pound lean ground beef** – The base of the casserole.
– **½ cup white onion, finely chopped** – Adds flavor and texture.
– **3 cloves garlic, minced** – For a rich, savory taste.
– **2 tablespoons brown sugar** – Balances out the savory elements with a hint of sweetness.
– **1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce** – Enhances the meat’s flavor.
– **1 cup Italian breadcrumbs** – Helps bind the meat mixture.
– **1 large egg** – Adds moisture and holds everything together.
– **1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated** – A rich and melty topping.
– **⅓ cup bacon (cooked and crumbled) or bacon bits** – Adds a crispy, savory element.
– **Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste** – For seasoning.
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#### **Preparation**
**1. Preheat Oven:**
– Set your oven to **400ºF**.
**2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:**
– In a large bowl, combine **1 pound of lean ground beef**, **½ cup finely chopped onion**, **3 minced garlic cloves**, **2 tablespoons brown sugar**, and **1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce**.
– Use two forks or your hands to mix everything thoroughly.
– Season generously with **kosher salt** and **freshly ground pepper**.
– Work in **1 cup Italian breadcrumbs** and **1 large egg** until fully incorporated.
**3. Press into Baking Dish:**
– Transfer the ground beef mixture to an **8-inch square baking dish** and press it into an even layer.
**4. Add Mashed Potato Layer:**
– Spread the **3 cups of leftover mashed potatoes** over the top of the ground beef mixture, smoothing it out evenly.
**5. Add Cheese and Bacon:**
– Top the mashed potatoes with **1½ cups of grated sharp cheddar cheese**.
– Sprinkle **⅓ cup of bacon (cooked and crumbled)** or **bacon bits** over the cheese.
**6. Bake the Casserole:**
– Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for **30 minutes**.
– Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional **10-15 minutes**, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
**7. Serve and Enjoy:**
– Once fully baked, remove from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, then serve hot!
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This casserole is perfect for a cozy family dinner and a great way to turn simple ingredients into something comforting and delicious. The layers of savory beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and gooey cheddar cheese topped with crispy bacon will make it an instant favorite!
