The Meatloaf Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, combining the rich flavors of a classic meatloaf with the creamy goodness of mashed potatoes, crisp vegetables, and melted cheese. It’s all baked together in one dish to create the perfect family-style meal that’s easy to serve and guaranteed to please.
This dish is ideal for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying, hearty, and simple. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you can whip up a casserole that looks like it took hours, but only took minutes to prep. It’s a delicious way to enjoy meatloaf in a new and cozy format.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 1/2 lbs ground beef
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1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
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1/2 cup green bell pepper, chopped
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1 clove garlic, minced
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup milk
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2 eggs
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
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2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
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1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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2 tablespoons ketchup
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, bell pepper, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well until combined.
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Spread the meat mixture evenly in a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.
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Top with frozen mixed vegetables, spreading evenly.
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Spoon mashed potatoes over the vegetables, smoothing into an even layer.
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Spread ketchup over the mashed potatoes and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
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Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and cheese is melted and golden.
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Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 385 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Ultimate Comfort Food: Meatloaf Casserole Everyone Will Love
When it comes to meals that warm both the heart and soul, nothing quite compares to a homemade Meatloaf Casserole. This dish is a rich, satisfying combination of ground beef, hearty vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. It’s more than just a casserole, it’s a warm, familiar hug on a plate.
Whether you’re cooking for a hungry family or prepping leftovers for a busy week ahead, this all-in-one bake is a fantastic way to serve up comfort with minimal fuss.
A Twist on Classic Meatloaf
Traditional meatloaf has long been a staple in American homes. It’s loved for its simplicity, flavor, and the way it brings people together around the dinner table. But this recipe takes that concept to the next level. Instead of shaping the meat mixture into a loaf, you press it into a casserole dish, top it with frozen mixed veggies, creamy mashed potatoes, and cheese. It’s a hybrid between a meatloaf and a shepherd’s pie and trust us, it’s a match made in heaven.
The layering not only makes for a visually appealing dish but also ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and texture. The savory meat, the sweet vegetables, the buttery mashed potatoes, and that gooey cheese topping come together in perfect harmony.
Why This Meatloaf Casserole is a Must-Try
Here’s what makes this dish truly special:
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All-in-one convenience: You don’t need to prepare multiple sides; everything is in the dish already.
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Customizable: Swap veggies, switch up the cheese, or even go meatless with lentils or plant-based ground.
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Great for leftovers: The flavors intensify after a day in the fridge, making it even better the next day.
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Freezer-friendly: Prepare it ahead and freeze either before or after baking.
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Kid-approved: Even picky eaters love the creamy potato and cheesy topping!
This recipe works wonderfully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, family gatherings, and even potlucks. It checks every box: easy, delicious, nourishing, and incredibly satisfying.
Key Ingredients & Their Roles
Each component of this casserole contributes a unique texture and flavor that builds a truly comforting experience:
1. Ground Beef
The base of the dish, ground beef provides protein and richness. An 80/20 blend (80% lean, 20% fat) is ideal for flavor without too much grease. For a leaner option, use ground turkey or a meatless substitute.
2. Aromatics – Onion, Garlic, Bell Pepper
These build the foundational flavor. The sweetness of sautéed onions and bell peppers complements the savory beef perfectly.
3. Breadcrumbs, Eggs & Milk
These binders give the meat layer its soft yet firm texture. They help retain moisture and ensure the beef holds together like traditional meatloaf.
4. Frozen Mixed Vegetables
A colorful medley of peas, corn, and carrots adds nutrition, texture, and a pop of color. You can substitute with fresh vegetables if you prefer.
5. Mashed Potatoes
Silky mashed potatoes form the ultimate comfort layer. Whether you use leftover mashed potatoes, freshly made, or even store-bought, make sure they’re well-seasoned for best results.
6. Cheddar Cheese
The final cheesy topping pulls everything together. Use sharp cheddar for extra depth or mix in mozzarella for meltier magic.
7. Ketchup or Tomato-Based Topping
This sweet and tangy glaze adds a classic meatloaf flavor twist and balances out the savory richness of the meat and cheese.
Tips for Perfect Meatloaf Casserole
Here are some pro tips to make your casserole extra delicious every time:
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Drain excess fat from the meat after browning if you’re using a higher-fat blend.
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Let it rest for 5–10 minutes after baking. This helps everything set and makes serving neater.
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Season every layer. Don’t forget to taste and season your mashed potatoes and vegetables for balanced flavor.
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Use an oven-safe glass or ceramic dish. It holds heat better and is perfect for even baking.
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Grate your own cheese, if possible, pre-shredded cheese can have added starch that affects meltability.
Variations to Make It Your Own
Feel free to get creative and tailor this casserole to your preferences:
Low-Carb Option
Swap mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower or a blend of cauliflower and turnips for a low-carb, keto-friendly version.
Vegetarian Version
Replace ground beef with lentils, chickpeas, or a plant-based meat alternative like Beyond Meat. Add more veggies for volume and texture.
Spicy Twist
Add chopped jalapeños to the beef mix and use pepper jack cheese for a spicy, Tex-Mex take.
Italian-Inspired
Use Italian sausage instead of beef and add marinara sauce between layers. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
Loaded Style
Top the mashed potatoes with bacon bits, green onions, and extra cheese for a “loaded potato” casserole vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
This casserole is incredibly meal-prep friendly. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
To Make Ahead:
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Assemble completely, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
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To bake from cold, add 10–15 extra minutes to the baking time.
To Freeze:
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Freeze before or after baking, covered tightly in foil.
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If freezing unbaked, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
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If freezing after baking, portion into containers for easy grab-and-go meals.
To Reheat:
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Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven.
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For oven reheating, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through.
What to Serve with Meatloaf Casserole
Although this dish is a complete meal on its own, you can always add a little something on the side to round it out:
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Side salad: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness.
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Dinner rolls: Perfect for soaking up any leftover juices.
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Steamed broccoli or green beans: For extra veggies and color.
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Pickled veggies or slaw: Adds a zesty, tangy counterpoint.
Nutrition Notes
This dish is rich in protein, vitamins from the vegetables, and satisfying carbs from the mashed potatoes. For a lighter option:
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Use lean meats or a plant-based substitute.
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Reduce the amount of cheese or opt for reduced-fat versions.
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Bulk up the vegetable layer to increase fiber and nutrients.
Conclusion: A New Family Favorite
This Meatloaf Casserole is everything you want in a comfort food dish, hearty, nostalgic, simple to make, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re trying to impress a dinner guest or feed a hungry crowd, this recipe never disappoints. It’s one of those dishes that brings back memories while creating new ones, and it’s bound to become a new staple in your weekly rotation.
By combining timeless ingredients in a fresh new way, this casserole offers a delicious and practical approach to dinner. Plus, the flexibility to adapt it to different dietary needs makes it even more appealing. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked.