Description

A comforting twist on the classic meatloaf, this cheesy casserole-style bake is filled with a gooey cheese center and topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this dish is easy to prepare, versatile, and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale

Essential Ingredients:

2 lbs 80% lean ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs (or rolled oats/crushed crackers)
1 large egg (or flax egg: 1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar or Havarti cheese
2 cups mashed potatoes (for topping or layering)

Optional Additions:

½ cup cooked, crumbled beef
½ cup ketchup mixed with 1 tbsp brown sugar (for glaze)
Chopped herbs (like thyme or parsley)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Mix until well combined.
Press the meat mixture into a loaf shape or evenly layer it into a casserole dish.
Make a shallow indentation in the center and fill with mashed potatoes and shredded cheese.
Fold the sides of the meat over to enclose the cheese layer, sealing it inside.
If using, top with the ketchup-brown sugar glaze.
Cover with foil and bake for 60 minutes.
Uncover, increase oven temperature to 400°F (200°C), and bake for 10 minutes for a golden top.
Remove from oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Serve with sides like garlic mashed potatoes or roasted veggies.

Notes

Use 80% lean beef for optimal juiciness.

A meat thermometer should read 160°F internally when done.

This dish can be prepped and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for 3 months.

Vegetarian? Use plant-based meat and cheese, plus flax eggs.

Leftovers make sumptuous sandwich fillings!

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: cheesy meatloaf, meatloaf casserole, ground beef bake, comfort food, family dinner, make-ahead meatloaf