Get ready to meet the ultimate comfort food hero: Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole. This dish layers two beloved classics—juicy, flavorful meatloaf topped with creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheddar—in one show-stopping casserole. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together at the table, filling the kitchen with cozy aromas and promising forkfuls of savory, cheesy goodness. Whether you’re serving it for a hearty weeknight dinner or bringing it to a potluck, you’ll marvel at just how easy and satisfying this Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole is from the very first bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best recipes are made of simple, accessible ingredients that come together to create pure magic on a plate. Every item here has a purpose, bringing flavor, texture, or creaminess that perfectly defines Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole.
- Ground beef: Adds juicy richness as the heart of your casserole; opt for 80/20 for the best balance of flavor and tenderness.
- Plain breadcrumbs: Hold the meatloaf together and provide that signature airy texture.
- Milk: Moistens the breadcrumbs and ensures a melt-in-your-mouth meatloaf.
- Large egg: Binds everything, so you get neat, sliceable portions every time.
- Finely chopped onion: Infuses the beef with a gentle sweetness and savory punch.
- Minced garlic: Gives a subtle depth of flavor that makes the dish irresistible.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds that special umami boost—don’t skip it!
- Ketchup: Keeps things tangy and helps lock in moisture.
- Salt and black pepper: The dynamic duo that brings out all the layers of flavor.
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy, fluffy, and seasoned—use leftovers or make them fresh, but make sure they’re smooth.
- Unsalted butter: Adds silken richness and irresistible flavor to the potatoes.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts to a bubbly, golden finish—hello cheesy topping!
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): Brings color and a burst of fresh flavor if you love a little green on your casserole.
How to Make Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Give a 9×9-inch baking dish (or one of similar size) a light greasing to prevent any sticky situations later. This simple step ensures your Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole comes out beautifully and is easy to serve.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Layer
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together—you want it well combined but not overworked, which keeps the meatloaf layer tender and juicy. Think of this step as laying the flavor-packed foundation for your casserole.
Step 3: Bake the Meatloaf Base
Press your seasoned meat mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Pop it into the preheated oven and let it bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for meat that’s cooked through and no longer pink in the center. This bakes up a savory, satisfying base that’s ready to carry the mashed potato crown.
Step 4: Make the Mashed Potato Layer
While the meatloaf is baking, prepare your mashed potatoes if you haven’t already—and if you have leftovers, this is their shining moment! Warm the potatoes, stir in butter and milk, and season with salt and pepper until smooth and creamy. This is where the casserole gets its ultimate comfort factor.
Step 5: Layer Potatoes and Cheese
Carefully spread your creamy mashed potatoes over the baked meatloaf in an even layer, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. The potatoes lock in all the juices from the meatloaf, while the cheese creates that signature gooey, golden crust when baked.
Step 6: Bake Again to Finish
Return the dish to the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes, just until the cheddar cheese is bubbling and slightly golden. Let it sit for 5 minutes after coming out of the oven—this lets the layers set so you’ll get neat, gorgeous slices every time.
How to Serve Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top of your Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole not only adds a vibrant splash of color, but also brings a hint of freshness to every forkful. Consider a light dusting of cracked pepper or even some extra cheese shreds for special occasions. A garnish may seem simple, but it truly makes the casserole look as inviting as it tastes.
Side Dishes
While this casserole can easily shine all on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad, buttery green beans, or steamed broccoli makes the meal even more complete. For a heartier feast, serve alongside warm dinner rolls or roasted carrots—the contrasting textures elevate each bite of your Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress at your next gathering, try baking individual portions in ramekins or muffin tins for a personalized twist. You can swirl the mashed potatoes on top with a piping bag for a bakery-style finish, or layer in extra veggies like peas or corn for color and variety. However you serve it, inviting everyone to dig in at the table always steals the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole stores beautifully. Wrap the cooled casserole (or individual slices) tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days—perfect for quick lunches or relaxed family dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This casserole is freezer-friendly! After assembling and baking, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in layers of plastic and foil. You can freeze the whole casserole or individual portions for up to 2 months. For best results, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, simply cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through (about 20 to 25 minutes for a whole casserole, or 10 minutes for single portions). For a crispier cheese top, remove the foil for the last few minutes. A quick zap in the microwave also works for solo servings—just watch out for hot spots!
FAQs
Can I use a different ground meat for this Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can easily stand in for beef. They create a leaner casserole while soaking up all the delicious flavors from the seasonings and toppings.
Do I have to use homemade mashed potatoes?
Nope! Store-bought or leftover mashed potatoes work great, as long as they’re creamy. If using prepared potatoes, just make sure to give them an extra boost of butter or milk for added richness.
How do I know when the meatloaf layer is fully cooked?
The meatloaf is done when it’s no longer pink in the center and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. If you have a meat thermometer, it’s a foolproof way to check.
Can I make this Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole dairy-free?
You sure can! Use plant-based milk and butter for the mashed potatoes, skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative, and your casserole will still be creamy and delicious.
What’s the best way to save time if I’m making this for a weeknight dinner?
The best shortcut is using leftover mashed potatoes, so you only need to whip up the meatloaf base. You can even assemble everything the night before and bake it off as soon as you get home!
Final Thoughts
Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole is the kind of dish that transforms simple ingredients into a comfort food celebration. Whether you’re gathering the family, feeding a crowd, or just craving something hearty, this recipe has you covered. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new household favorite!
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Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food dish that combines savory meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and gooey cheddar cheese. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Layer:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Mashed Potato Layer:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared and seasoned)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Prepare meatloaf layer: Mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Press into the baking dish and bake for 25–30 minutes.
- Prepare mashed potato layer: Make mashed potatoes with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Spread over the cooked meatloaf.
- Add topping: Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the potatoes.
- Final bake: Bake for another 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use leftover mashed potatoes to save time.
- This casserole can be prepared in advance.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
