Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole
A family-friendly, comforting dish with juicy meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for dinner and guaranteed to be a hit!
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs (900 g) ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs (900 g) potatoes, peeled and chopped
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 350°F (180°C).
Prepare the meatloaf mixture
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs (soaked in milk), chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme.
- Mix gently until everything is evenly incorporated.
Shape and bake the meatloaf
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Shape it evenly into a loaf.
- In a small bowl, mix ketchup and brown sugar, then spread it over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes until the meat is fully cooked.
Prepare the mashed potatoes
- Boil potatoes in salted water until soft (about 15–20 minutes).
- Drain and mash with milk, butter, salt, and black pepper until creamy.
Assemble the casserole
- Once the meatloaf is cooked, spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the potatoes.
Final bake
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy with your favorite side salad or vegetables.
Tips & Variations:
- Add cooked bacon bits for extra flavor.
- Swap cheddar with mozzarella or a cheese blend for a different taste.
- You can prepare the meatloaf a day ahead and refrigerate, then bake before serving.