ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions: How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Layer
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. If the mixture feels too dry, add a little bit more ketchup or Worcestershire sauce to moisten it.
Transfer the meat mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish and press it down evenly. Bake it in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
Step 2: Make the Mashed Potatoes
While the meatloaf is baking, you can make the mashed potatoes. Place the peeled and cubed potatoes into a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for about 12-15 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, salt, and pepper, and mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. Stir in the cheddar cheese and mix until it’s melted and fully incorporated. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and spread the cheesy mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meatloaf layer. Be sure to cover the meatloaf completely with the mashed potatoes, pressing them down gently.
Top the casserole with an additional cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Place the casserole back in the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley, if desired, for a fresh pop of color.
Slice and serve hot. Enjoy the perfect combination of cheesy mashed potatoes, savory meatloaf, and a crispy, cheesy top that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole
1. Perfect for Meal Prep
This casserole makes for great leftovers, so it’s perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch and have delicious, filling meals for the week ahead. Just reheat and enjoy!
2. Comforting and Hearty
The meatloaf provides a satisfying protein-packed base, while the cheesy mashed potatoes add a creamy and comforting touch. The layers work together beautifully, giving you a full meal in one dish.
3. Crowd-Pleaser
If you’re serving a crowd or have a family with diverse tastes, this casserole is the perfect dish to serve. It’s filling, flavorful, and universally loved by both kids and adults alike. Everyone will be asking for seconds!
4. Easy to Make
This casserole is straightforward to prepare, with simple ingredients that require minimal effort. It’s a great option for busy weeknights or when you want to feed a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen.
5. A Customizable Recipe
You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables into the meatloaf mixture (like spinach or bell peppers) or mixing in some extra seasonings to suit your taste. You can also swap out the cheese for something different, such as mozzarella or parmesan.
Final Thoughts: A Hearty, Flavorful Meal in One Dish
Cheesy Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the heartiness of meatloaf with the creamy richness of cheesy mashed potatoes for a meal that everyone will love. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week.
Whether you’re looking for a new family favorite or just want to treat yourself to a satisfying, cozy meal, this casserole is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. The layers of cheesy mashed potatoes, savory meatloaf, and melted cheese topping make it the perfect dish to enjoy on a chilly evening or any time you want a hearty, delicious meal in no time. Enjoy!
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
