Name: Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf: 6 Reasons to Love This Comfort Food
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground Beef (80% lean); 1 cup Breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs); 1 large Egg (binding agent); 1/2 cup Milk (or plant-based milk); 1 medium Onion (finely chopped); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce (or soy sauce mixed with vinegar); 1/2 cup Ketchup (divided); 3 cups Prepared Mashed Potatoes (or cauliflower mash); 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (or mozzarella or pepper jack); 1/2 cup Cooked Bacon (crumbled) (pre-cooked for convenience); 2 tablespoons Chopped Green Onions/Chives

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Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food, blending savory meatloaf and creamy mashed potatoes, perfect for family dinners. The rich flavors and gooey cheese create a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf

This Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf is a family favorite for several reasons. First, it combines comforting flavors in a single dish, making dinner stress-free. Second, it’s a versatile recipe that allows for various toppings and sides. You can customize it with different cheeses, meats, or veggies, creating a Gourmet Loaded Meatloaf experience. Third, it’s an excellent way to use up leftovers, making it an economical choice. Plus, with a prep time of only 15 minutes and a cook time of 40 minutes, you can have a hearty meal ready in under an hour. This dish is perfect for a Cheesy Meatloaf for Dinner that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients for Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf

Gather these items:

1 lb Ground Beef (80% lean)
1 cup Breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
1 large Egg (binding agent)
1/2 cup Milk (or plant-based milk)
1 medium Onion (finely chopped)
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1 teaspoon Salt
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce (or soy sauce mixed with vinegar)
1/2 cup Ketchup (divided)
3 cups Prepared Mashed Potatoes (or cauliflower mash)
1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (or mozzarella or pepper jack)
1/2 cup Cooked Bacon (crumbled) (pre-cooked for convenience)
2 tablespoons Chopped Green Onions/Chives

How to Make Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for even cooking.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the ketchup. Mix gently but thoroughly and press into a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining ketchup.
Step 3: Bake for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked through with no pink in the center.
Step 4: Spread prepared mashed potatoes over the meatloaf, followed by cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
Step 5: Return to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Broil for 1-2 minutes for a crispy top if desired.
Step 6: Let cool slightly, garnish with green onions or chives, slice, serve, and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf

Keep these in mind:

Use lean ground beef for a healthier option while still keeping it juicy.
Mix the ingredients gently to avoid a tough meatloaf.
Feel free to add spices like paprika or Italian seasoning for an extra flavor boost.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf

For the best experience, serve your Loaded Meatloaf with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. You can also pair it with garlic bread for a comforting meal. Additionally, consider adding toppings like crispy onions or extra cheese for a gourmet touch.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf

To store, simply wrap the leftovers in foil or place them in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual slices. This makes a perfect meal-prep option.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf?

The secret lies in balancing the moisture of the meat and other ingredients. Using breadcrumbs and egg helps bind everything, while the cheese adds flavor and moisture. You can also add a Meatloaf with Cheesy Filling style for extra richness.

Can I make Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and store it in the fridge for a day before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier. It’s one of the easy Cheesy Meatloaf Recipe options for busy families.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf?

To avoid common pitfalls, make sure you don’t overmix the beef mixture, as this can lead to a dense texture. Keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure it’s not dry, and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Adding a Meatloaf with Cheese and Bacon twist can also help maintain moisture.

Variations of Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf You Can Try

There are numerous ways to put your unique spin on this dish. Consider trying a Cheddar Stuffed Meatloaf filled with gooey cheese, or experiment with different meats like ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can even create a Cheesy Beef Loaf with your favorite spices or add vegetables for extra nutrition.