This loaded meatloaf casserole layers seasoned ground beef and pork with mashed potatoes, cheddar, cooked crumbled meat and green onions. Bake it in a 9×13-inch dish and give it the full 10-minute rest before slicing so the layers hold together more neatly.
Recipe Details
- Pan: 9×13 inches (about 23×33 cm)
- Prep: 20 minutes
- Bake: 35–40 minutes
- Rest: 10 minutes
- Time to serve: About 65–70 minutes
- Servings: 8
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ lb ground pork
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked, crumbled meat
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
How to Make Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
Prepare the dish
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Mix the meatloaf base
Combine the ground beef, ground pork, onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper and garlic powder in a large bowl. Mix just until combined.
Layer the casserole
Press the meat mixture evenly into the dish. Spread the mashed potatoes over it, then sprinkle with cheddar, cooked crumbled meat and green onions.
Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the meat layer is cooked through. Check that the center of the casserole reaches 165°F (74°C) with a food thermometer.
Rest and serve
Let the casserole stand for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips and Common Mistakes
- Mix the meat gently; working it too much can make the base dense.
- Spread each layer evenly so the casserole cooks consistently across the dish.
- Use already-cooked meat for the crumbled topping.
- Do not rely on melted cheese alone to judge the meat layer; check the center.
- Allow the 10-minute rest before cutting.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Refrigerate leftovers promptly in covered containers. Reheat individual portions until hot all the way through. Store well covered so the mashed-potato layer does not dry out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size baking dish is used?
The recipe uses a 9×13-inch baking dish. A smaller dish makes a thicker meat layer and changes the cooking time.
Should the crumbled meat topping be raw?
No. The listed topping is already cooked and crumbled before it is added.
Why should the casserole rest before slicing?
The 10-minute rest lets the layers settle, making the casserole easier to cut and serve.