If you’re searching for an all-in-one comfort food wonder, look no further than this Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole. This dish marries two nostalgic favorites—classic, juicy meatloaf and creamy mashed potatoes—then takes it a delicious step further with a bubbling, cheesy topping. It’s a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, a lifesaver for busy weeknights, and even picky eaters will cheer for second helpings! Whether you’re feeding a crew or just craving wholesome, satisfying flavors, this casserole is the definition of homey goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole is in its simplicity: a handful of familiar ingredients combine for an unforgettable result. Each one plays a special role, whether it’s adding moisture, flavor, or that irresistible crust of golden cheese on top.
- Ground beef: The heart of the dish! Choose 80/20 for a nice balance of flavor and juiciness without too much grease.
- Plain breadcrumbs: These help hold the meatloaf base together and keep it perfectly tender.
- Milk: A splash brings moisture and a little richness to the meat mixture.
- Large egg: Acts as a binder so everything stays intact as it bakes.
- Ketchup: Adds just the right tang and sweetness to complement the beef.
- Worcestershire sauce: A little splash goes a long way with deep, savory, umami-packed flavor.
- Garlic powder: This easy seasoning brings lovely background flavor—no mincing required!
- Onion powder: Enhances the meatloaf flavor without the work or texture of real onion.
- Salt: Seasoning makes all the flavors pop—don’t skimp on this key element.
- Black pepper: A touch of warmth to balance out the richness of the meat and potatoes.
- Mashed potatoes: The creamy crown—use leftovers or whip up a fresh batch for the ultimate topping.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts over the top to create a bubbly, golden layer you’ll crave.
- Fresh parsley: Optional, but brings a welcome bright finish and a pop of color.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Makes sure your casserole comes out perfect, with no sticking.
How to Make Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating the oven to 375°F. Give your 9×9-inch baking dish a generous coating of nonstick cooking spray—trust me, you’ll appreciate the easy cleanup later. This little step sets you up for perfectly baked layers that lift out smoothly, every single time.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Base
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Be gentle—mix just until everything’s incorporated. Overmixing can make your meatloaf dense, so a light touch is key for a juicy, tender base.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
Press the meat mixture evenly into your greased baking dish, creating a flat layer from corner to corner. Pop it in the oven and let it bake for about 25 minutes. The aroma at this stage is your first sign of the delicious payoff to come! Once the meat is fully cooked, carefully drain off any excess fat so your Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole stays nicely balanced—not greasy.
Step 4: Add the Mashed Potato Layer
Spread your mashed potatoes evenly over the hot meatloaf base, smoothing right to the edges. Don’t be shy with that luscious topping! If you like your potatoes extra creamy, feel free to fold in a spoonful of sour cream or a dollop of cream cheese before spreading. This is your moment to make it your own.
Step 5: Cheese It and Bake Again
Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes, then return the dish to the oven for another 15 minutes. The cheese will bubble and brown beautifully—this is what transforms a regular meatloaf-mash combo into an unforgettable Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole!
Step 6: Finish and Garnish
Once bubbling and golden, take your casserole out and sprinkle with chopped parsley if you’re in the mood for a fresh pop of green. Let it stand a couple of minutes so the layers settle—then slice, serve, and bask in the chorus of “oohs” and “ahhs.”
How to Serve Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is classic, but don’t stop there—a drizzle of extra ketchup, a dash of smoked paprika, or even a dollop of sour cream can take your serving over the top. If you love a bit of crunch, try some crispy fried onions for contrast.
Side Dishes
This Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole is practically a meal on its own, but a fresh green salad, roasted green beans, or buttered corn would be right at home on the side. For a cozy fall dinner, serve with oven-roasted carrots or steamed broccoli for color and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, portion individual servings into ramekins or muffin tins for mini casseroles—perfect for parties or meal prepping. Want even more pizzazz? Top with extra cheese or a swirl of gravy just before serving. You can also shape the meat layer into hearts or fun shapes for a festive family dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole is a blessing, not a burden! Let it cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or transfer to airtight containers. Safely kept in the refrigerator, it’ll be delicious for up to four days—making easy work of meal planning or lunchbox packing.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully. Cool completely, slice or leave whole, then wrap securely in plastic and foil. Pop into the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for quick comfort food any time you crave it.
Reheating
For best results, reheat your Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole gently in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbling—about 20 minutes for a full pan or 5-10 minutes for individual portions. Cover with foil to keep the potatoes moist, and remove it for the last minute if you’d like to revive that cheesy golden top.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a lighter version of this dish that’s every bit as comforting. Just keep an eye on your seasoning since turkey has a milder flavor, and consider adding a little extra Worcestershire or your favorite spices.
What if I don’t have leftover mashed potatoes?
No worries at all! Whip up a fresh batch just before starting, or even use instant mashed potatoes if you’re in a time crunch. For a richer layer, stir in sour cream, cream cheese, or chives before spreading.
How do I make the casserole gluten-free?
Easy fix: simply swap the plain breadcrumbs for a gluten-free variety. Double-check that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free as well, and otherwise follow the original recipe for a dish that works for everyone.
Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf layer?
Of course! Finely diced carrots, bell peppers, or even peas fold in beautifully if you want extra nutrition and color. Just be sure to sauté firmer veggies lightly before adding them in so they’re tender in the finished casserole.
How do I avoid greasy meatloaf?
Choose a ground beef with moderate fat content (around 80/20). And don’t skip draining off the fat after the first bake—this step keeps your Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole balanced and ensures the potato and cheese layers shine.
Final Thoughts
If you’re longing for a meal that melts away the stresses of the day, give Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole a try. It’s classic comfort, made even better by how easy and customizable it is. Can’t wait to hear what you think—this is one to add to your favorites collection!
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Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole combines the comforting flavors of meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes in a delicious one-dish meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Casserole Topping:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared in advance)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Mix the meatloaf: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
- Bake the meatloaf: Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish to form the meatloaf base. Bake for 25 minutes or until the meat is cooked through.
- Add the topping: Spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the potatoes.
- Finish baking: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley before serving, if desired.
Notes
- You can use leftover mashed potatoes or make them fresh.
- For a creamier topping, mix the mashed potatoes with a bit of sour cream or cream cheese.
- Ground turkey can be used instead of beef for a lighter version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
