Name: Easy Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 500 g (about 1 lb) ground beef (or half beef / half turkey); 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers / panko); 1 large egg; ½ cup ketchup (or BBQ sauce); 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 cups cooked mashed potatoes (leftovers or instant work well); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Swiss / Colby-Jack); Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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This Easy Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole is the kind of comforting, no-fuss dinner I turn to when I want something hearty, savory, and satisfying. It’s a layered dish of juicy, seasoned ground meat, creamy mashed potatoes, and gooey melted cheddar cheese. It all comes together in one baking dish, making cleanup just as easy as the cooking.

Easy Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

500 g (about 1 lb) ground beef (or half beef / half turkey)

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers / panko)

1 large egg

½ cup ketchup (or BBQ sauce)

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 cups cooked mashed potatoes (leftovers or instant work well)

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Swiss / Colby-Jack)

Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 200 °C (about 400 °F) and greasing a medium-sized casserole dish.

In a large bowl, I mix together the ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, half of the ketchup (or BBQ sauce), Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper. I use my hands to combine everything gently but thoroughly.

I press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.

Then I spread the mashed potatoes over the top. It doesn’t need to look perfect—rustic works just fine.

I drizzle the remaining ketchup (or BBQ sauce) over the potatoes and then sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top.

I bake the casserole for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly, golden, and slightly browned around the edges.

Once out of the oven, I let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. That way, everything sets up nicely.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: About 6 servings

Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes swap out the cheddar for Swiss or Colby-Jack for a different cheesy flavor.

For a leaner option, I mix ground turkey with ground beef, or use turkey entirely.

I’ve also added steamed veggies like peas or corn between the meat and potatoes for extra texture and nutrition.

BBQ sauce instead of ketchup gives it a smoky twist.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or reheat the whole dish in the oven at 180 °C (350 °F) for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. It also freezes well—just wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. I thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How do I know when the meat is fully cooked?

The meat should be fully cooked when the casserole reaches an internal temperature of 70 °C (160 °F). I also look for the cheese to be bubbly and golden and the edges lightly browned.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it (uncooked) for up to a day. When I’m ready, I just pop it in the oven and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

When I’m out of breadcrumbs, I crush crackers or use panko. Even oats can work in a pinch—they help bind everything together just as well.

Is this casserole kid-friendly?

Absolutely. The cheesy top and mashed potato layer make it a hit with kids. I’ve even left out the onions before to make it more appealing to picky eaters.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, instant mashed potatoes work great here. I just make sure they’re thick and not too runny so they hold up well during baking.

Conclusion

This Easy Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole is everything I want in a cozy weeknight meal—quick, hearty, and totally satisfying. It’s a perfect use for leftover mashed potatoes, a smart way to stretch ground meat into a family-sized dinner, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every time. Whether I stick to the classic version or try one of the tasty variations, this dish always delivers comfort in every bite.

Recipe:

Easy Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Halal

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Description

This Easy Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole combines the comfort of meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheddar cheese. Baked in one dish, it’s a hearty, family-friendly meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 200 °C (400 °F) and grease a medium-sized casserole dish.
In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, half the ketchup (or BBQ sauce), Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Combine gently but thoroughly.
Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat layer.
Drizzle the remaining ketchup (or BBQ sauce) over the mashed potatoes.
Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top.
Bake for 25–30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown at the edges.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.