Loaded Meatloaf Casserole (Print)

A cozy, flavorful dish pairing mashed potatoes, cheesy goodness, and ground meat into a rich and satisfying meal.

# Ingredients:

→ Base Layer

01 - 1 teaspoon salt
02 - ¼ cup milk
03 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
04 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
05 - ½ cup breadcrumbs
06 - ¼ cup finely diced onion
07 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
08 - 1 pound ground beef
09 - ½ cup ketchup, split in half
10 - 1 large egg

→ Toppings

11 - Chives or green onion bits (2 tablespoons, optional)
12 - Bacon strips (4), cooked and crumbled
13 - Mashed potatoes, pre-made (2 cups)
14 - Sharp cheddar, shredded (1 cup)

# Steps:

01 - Turn your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease up a 9×9 pan lightly.
02 - Stir the ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and half your ketchup together in a big bowl until everything blends nicely.
03 - Pack the meat mix into the baking pan, smear the leftover ketchup on top, and bake for 20-25 minutes until it’s fully cooked.
04 - Once baked, layer the fluffy potatoes above the meat loaf, spread the cheddar, and sprinkle the crumbled bacon over everything.
05 - Slide it back in the oven for 10-15 minutes till your cheese gets gooey and bubbly. Sprinkle some chopped green onions on top if you’re into that.

# Notes:

01 - You can prep ahead—just make the meat layer early and chill it until you're ready to finish and bake.
02 - Try swapping the beef for ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.