Name: Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 1 small onion, finely diced; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 tablespoons ketchup; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 3 cups mashed potatoes; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; Salt and black pepper, to taste

Comfort food meets cheesy indulgence in this Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole. Imagine everything you love about classic meatloaf layered with creamy mashed potatoes, then topped with a generous handful of shredded cheese and baked until bubbly and golden. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers the next day.

This casserole brings together tender seasoned ground beef, a hint of smoky ketchup glaze, and velvety potatoes all in one baking dish. It’s the kind of recipe that gets requested again and again, especially on weeknights when you want dinner that feels like a warm hug. Bonus points: it’s incredibly freezer-friendly and easily customizable.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole

It’s a complete meal in one pan with protein, carbs, and plenty of flavor. Kids adore the cheesiness, while adults love the classic meatloaf taste elevated with a twist. It also stores well and reheats like a dream, making it ideal for meal prep. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for the family or a potluck favorite, this dish checks all the boxes.

Can I Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes?

Absolutely. In fact, this casserole is a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes from another meal. If your potatoes are on the thicker side, add a splash of milk before spreading them to keep everything moist. Homemade or store-bought works great too, just be sure they’re smooth and well-seasoned.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole

When you’re building this casserole, each ingredient brings a key layer of flavor or texture. Let’s break it down:

Ground beef – The star of the show. Use 80/20 for a rich and juicy base.

Breadcrumbs – Help bind the meat and add body without drying it out.

Egg – Acts as the glue that holds the meat mixture together.

Onion – Adds a touch of sweetness and depth. Finely diced is best.

Garlic powder – Brings that subtle savory boost.

Ketchup – For both moisture and a classic tangy glaze.

Worcestershire sauce – A splash gives a savory umami hit that deepens the flavor.

Mashed potatoes – Creamy and fluffy, these sit beautifully on top of the meat layer.

Cheddar cheese – Melted on top for a gooey, golden crown. Sharp cheddar adds the most flavor.

How To Make the Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole

Step 1: Make the Meatloaf Base

Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, diced onion, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, half the ketchup, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until just combined and press into the bottom of a greased 9×13 baking dish.

Step 2: Add the Mashed Potatoes

Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat mixture. If you’re using cold mashed potatoes, warm them slightly so they spread easily.

Step 3: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese all over the top. Add a little more if you’re feeling generous. You can also mix in some mozzarella for an extra melty finish.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve and Store This Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole

This recipe feeds about 6 hungry people, but can easily stretch to 8 if served with sides. Serve it hot from the oven, maybe with a little extra ketchup or hot sauce on the side. For storing, let the casserole cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven.

To freeze, wrap individual portions or the whole pan tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

What to Serve With Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole?

Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl

A lighter protein-packed side to contrast the richness.

Roasted Zucchini and Squash

Adds a touch of roasted goodness and freshness.

Classic Caprese Salad Recipe

Bright tomatoes and mozzarella bring a cool, juicy balance.

Crispy Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls

Perfectly spicy and crispy to complement the cheesy casserole.

No Peek Chicken Casserole

Serve this alongside for a dinner table full of comforting favorites.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells

If you’re feeding a crowd, this meaty pasta dish pairs up perfectly.

Easy Homemade Naan Bread

Use it to scoop up the cheesy goodness or serve as a warm side.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you loved this Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole, you might want to explore other comforting bakes like these:

Try the Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole for a creamy, veggie-forward twist.
The Mexican White Trash Casserole is bold, cheesy, and packed with Tex-Mex flavor.
Go with No Peek Chicken Casserole when you want set-it-and-forget-it ease.
One Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni if you’re craving a cheesy, meaty pasta dish.
Or dive into Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet for tangy, creamy skillet comfort.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s just a click away the next time you’re craving cozy comfort.

Let me know if you added anything extra to yours! Bacon bits? Different cheeses? I’m always excited to hear how you make these recipes your own.

Explore even more cozy casseroles and comfort food favorites on my Pinterest at Janet Dishes on Pinterest and fill your weeknights with flavor and ease.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole brings together the best parts of meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and cheesy baked comfort. It’s a recipe made for busy weeknights, chilly weekends, and anyone who craves classic comfort with a melty finish. Whether you’re feeding family or storing up for future meals, this is one dish that never goes out of style.