If you’ve ever wanted to combine the comfort of a classic meatloaf with the creamy warmth of mashed potatoes, then this Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine a hearty ground beef meatloaf baked to perfection, then topped with buttery, fluffy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon bits, and melted cheddar cheese—all baked together in one dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple. It’s a crowd-pleaser that warms the soul and fills the belly with every delicious bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is crucial, but you’ll be happy to know this recipe keeps things straightforward with pantry staples and fresh produce that come together for unbeatable flavor and texture. Each component plays a unique role—from the juicy meatloaf base to the silky mashed potato layer, not forgetting those crispy bacon bits and sharp cheddar that add irresistible punch.
- Ground beef (1 ½ pounds, 85/15): Choose this ratio for juicy yet lean meatloaf that holds together well.
- Yellow onion (¼, finely chopped): Adds subtle sweetness and depth of flavor without overpowering the beef.
- Seasoned dry breadcrumbs (â…” cup): Helps bind the meatloaf while adding texture.
- Whole milk (⅓ cup for meatloaf, ½ cup for potatoes): Creamy milk enhances both the meatloaf moisture and the mashed potatoes’ silkiness.
- Large egg (1, lightly beaten): Keeps the meat mixture together for perfect slicing after baking.
- Kosher salt (½ teaspoon for meatloaf, 1 teaspoon for potatoes): Seasoning is key for balanced taste across layers.
- Coarse ground black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a gentle spicy kick that complements the beef.
- Potatoes (2 pounds, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks): Perfect for fluffy mashed potatoes that crown the dish.
- Unsalted butter (â…“ cup): Makes the mashed potatoes rich and velvety.
- Bacon bits (½ cup, cooked and crumbled): Crispy bacon brings smoky crunch and unforgettable flavor.
- Cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded): Sharp and melty, this cheese completes the casserole with gooey goodness.
How to Make Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start your culinary journey by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a hot environment ready to cook your meatloaf to juicy perfection and later meld all the layers together.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, seasoned breadcrumbs, milk, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mixing gently keeps the meat tender and avoids overworking, so your final meatloaf stays moist and tender.
Step 3: Press Meatloaf into Baking Dish
Shape your mixture by pressing it evenly into a 9×9-inch baking dish. This will form a sturdy base layer that cooks evenly and holds all those fabulous toppings later on.
Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf
Bake the meatloaf uncovered for 15 minutes. After that, take it out and carefully drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy. This step is key for a balanced, hearty dish.
Step 5: Cook the Potatoes
While the meatloaf bakes, boil your potatoes in enough water to cover until they are tender, about 15 minutes. This is your opportunity to achieve lusciously soft potatoes, ready for mashing.
Step 6: Make the Mashed Potatoes
Drain the potatoes thoroughly, then add butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Mash everything until perfectly smooth and creamy—this is the crowning glory that makes your Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole Recipe truly special.
Step 7: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the smooth mashed potatoes evenly over the partially baked meatloaf. Top it off with shredded cheddar cheese and generous crumbled bacon bits. These toppings add texture and a burst of flavor that transforms the dish into something unforgettable.
Step 8: Final Bake
Bake everything together for another 15 minutes, or until the cheddar cheese melts into bubbly, golden perfection. This final bake melds all the flavors and textures for one delicious last step.
How to Serve Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or sliced green onions adds a splash of color and freshness that lifts the hearty richness of the casserole. These simple garnishes make your presentation pop and invite eager forks to dig in.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a meal on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans brings balance and crunch to your plate, brightening each bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in ramekins for an elegant touch at dinner parties. Alternatively, layer the casserole in a clear glass dish so guests can admire the tantalizing strata of beef, mashed potatoes, cheese, and bacon before they take their first bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftovers tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Flavors deepen overnight, so sometimes the next-day bites are even better!
Freezing
This Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion into airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes, to retain that freshly baked charm. For faster heating, microwave individual servings but watch the cheese topping to keep it from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and makes the dish a bit leaner. Just be mindful that turkey tends to cook faster and can dry out, so monitor baking time accordingly.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the seasoned breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Just be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I make the mashed potatoes from scratch without butter?
You can, though butter adds richness and smoothness. If avoiding butter, consider using olive oil or a dairy-free margarine to keep the creamy texture in your mashed potatoes.
What type of cheese works best if I don’t have cheddar?
Cheddar is great for its sharpness and melting quality, but Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a smoky gouda can be delightful alternatives depending on your flavor preferences.
How can I add more veggies to this casserole?
Mix finely chopped or grated veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini into the meatloaf mixture for an easy veggie boost without changing the dish’s comfort-food vibe.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something that feels like a big warm hug on a plate, this Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole Recipe hits every cozy note. It’s easy to make, filling, and perfect for sharing on any night when you want to make dinner something special yet familiar. Trust me, once you try it, this casserole will become a go-to favorite you’ll want to make again and again!
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Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish combining a classic meatloaf base topped with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon bits. This one-pan meal brings together savory flavors and creamy textures, perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Meatloaf
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (85/15)
- ¼ yellow onion, finely chopped
- â…” cup seasoned dry breadcrumbs
- â…“ cup whole milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
Mashed Potatoes
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
- â…“ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
Topping
- ½ cup bacon bits, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the meatloaf.
- Prepare Meatloaf: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, seasoned dry breadcrumbs, whole milk, lightly beaten egg, kosher salt, and coarse ground black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly but gently, then press the mixture evenly into a 9×9-inch baking dish to form the meatloaf base.
- Bake Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake uncovered for 15 minutes. After baking, carefully remove the dish from the oven and drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy.
- Cook Potatoes: While the meatloaf is baking, place the peeled and cut potatoes in a pot of water, making sure the water covers the potatoes. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, about 15 minutes. Then drain the potatoes thoroughly.
- Make Mashed Potatoes: Return the drained potatoes to the pot or a mixing bowl, add the unsalted butter, whole milk, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mash everything together until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning to taste if needed.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the baked meatloaf layer. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled cooked bacon bits evenly on top of the mashed potatoes.
- Final Bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges.
Notes
- For best flavor, allow the beef mixture to sit for a few minutes before pressing into the dish to let breadcrumbs absorb moisture.
- You can use leftover bacon bits or cook and crumble your own bacon to add a smoky flavor.
- Feel free to substitute cheddar cheese with your favorite cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for creamier mashed potatoes or Russet potatoes for fluffier texture.
- Drain excess fat carefully after the first bake to avoid sogginess in the final casserole.
