This meatloaf casserole is far better than your average meatloaf. A tender meatloaf base is topped with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and crispy bacon for a comforting, satisfying dinner the whole family will love.
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My Take On Meatloaf Casserole
I enjoy classic meatloaf recipes, but when I want ultimate comfort food, this loaded potato meatloaf casserole is my go-to. It combines a juicy meatloaf base with rich, creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and crispy bacon for a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal.
The layers work together: the seasoned meatloaf brings savory depth, the mashed potatoes add creaminess, and the bacon and cheese deliver texture and richness. It’s simple to make, feeds a family, and is easy to double for larger gatherings.
Why This Recipe Works
Easy and low-effort. This casserole requires minimal hands-on time and uses straightforward steps that still deliver big flavor.
Family favorite. The combination of savory meat, creamy potatoes, cheese, and bacon appeals to many palates and is great for picky eaters.
Layered texture and flavor. Each bite offers tender meat, smooth potatoes, melty cheese, and crispy bacon for a satisfying contrast.
Ingredients
Most ingredients are pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (or a 50/50 beef-pork mix)
- ½ cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- ⅔ cup seasoned dry breadcrumbs
- ⅓ cup whole milk (for the meat mixture)
- 1 large egg
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cut into 1″ chunks
- ⅓ cup butter (for the mashed potatoes)
- ½ cup whole milk (for the mashed potatoes)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon bits
- 1 cup shredded provolone (or another favorite melting cheese)
How To Make Meatloaf Casserole
1. Prep: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Mix the meat: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, chopped onion, seasoned breadcrumbs, ⅓ cup milk, egg, and salt and pepper. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
3. Bake: Bake the meatloaf base uncovered for 15 minutes. Remove the dish and drain any excess fat.
4. Cook potatoes: While the meatloaf bakes, place the potatoes in a pot and add just enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat and cook about 15 minutes, until tender.
5. Mash: Drain the potatoes, then return them to the pot. Add ⅓ cup butter, ½ cup milk, salt, and pepper. Mash until creamy and smooth.
6. Assemble and finish: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the partially baked meatloaf. Sprinkle the shredded cheese and crumbled bacon over the top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake another 15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly, the bacon is sizzling, and the potato edges are lightly browned. Serve warm.
Tips For Making The Best Meatloaf Casserole
- Short on time: Instant mashed potatoes work well—stir in a little sour cream for extra creaminess.
- Mix gently: Combine meatloaf ingredients until just blended to avoid a dense, tough texture.
- Swap cheeses: Try sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend if you prefer a different flavor profile.
How To Store Meatloaf Casserole
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, remove excess air, and freeze up to 6 months.
Reheat: Rewarm covered in a baking dish at 350°F until heated through—about 10–15 minutes for refrigerated portions. Thaw frozen portions in the fridge overnight before reheating.
More Recipes
- Meatloaf with stuffing
- Swiss chicken casserole
- Chicken and stuffing casserole
- Chicken crescent roll casserole
- Twice baked potato casserole
Meatloaf Casserole
This meatloaf casserole combines a tender meatloaf base with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and crispy bacon for a filling weeknight favorite.
10 minutes
45 minutes
55 minutes
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (50/50 beef and pork mix optional)
- ½ cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- ⅔ cup seasoned dry breadcrumbs
- ⅓ cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cut into 1″ chunks
- ⅓ cup butter
- ½ cup whole milk
- Salt and pepper
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon bits
- 1 cup shredded provolone
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180ºC).
- In a large bowl, gently combine beef, onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, and pepper, then press into a 9×9 baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 15 minutes, then remove and drain any excess fat.
- While the meatloaf is cooking, add potatoes with just enough water to cover a pot and bring to a boil over high heat. Cook for 15 minutes.
- Drain the water and add the milk, butter, salt, and pepper, mashing it all together until creamy.
- Spread over the meatloaf and top with cheese and bacon.
- Bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the bacon is sizzling, the cheese is bubbling, and the mashed potatoes are slightly crispy.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size:
1 slice
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 533Total Fat: 29gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 0mgCarbohydrates: 37gFiber: 4gSugar: 0gProtein: 33g