Description
This hearty Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting, all-in-one dish featuring seasoned ground beef topped with creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a family dinner, it combines classic meatloaf flavors with an easy casserole format, baked until golden and bubbly.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Mixture
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- ½ cup diced onion
- 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- ¾ cup Italian bread crumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Glaze
- ¾ cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
Topping
- 4 cups store-bought or homemade mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside for assembly.
- Combine Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the lean ground beef, diced onion, chopped parsley, Italian bread crumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use clean hands to mix all the ingredients thoroughly but gently to evenly distribute flavors without overworking the meat.
- Mix Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, balsamic vinegar, and brown sugar until smooth and well combined.
- Incorporate Glaze: Pour the glaze mixture into the meat mixture and mix gently until fully integrated. This glaze will give the meatloaf a rich, tangy-sweet flavor.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out to cover the base in a uniform layer.
- Add Mashed Potatoes: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meatloaf layer. This creates a creamy, starchy topping that bakes perfectly.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potato layer to add a rich, melted finish.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, allowing the meatloaf to cook through and the flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheddar cheese is melted and slightly golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then serve warm. This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Notes
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative.
- Homemade mashed potatoes add extra flavor but store-bought works well for convenience.
- To avoid overmixing the meat, combine ingredients gently to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven to maintain the casserole’s texture and flavor.
