Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
Ingredients
- —Ground beef: 1 pound - This is the base of our meatloaf layer (providing rich flavor and protein.)
- —Ground turkey: 1 pound - Used to replace pork; it retains flavor while offering a leaner protein option.
- —Breadcrumbs: 1 cup - These act as a binding agent for the meatloaf.
- —Egg: 1 large - Helps to bind the meat mixture together.
- —Onion: 1 medium (finely chopped - Adds depth of flavor to the meatloaf.)
- —Garlic: 2 cloves (minced - Enhances the overall aroma and taste.)
- —Ketchup: ½ cup - Adds moisture and sweetness to the meatloaf mixture.
- —Potatoes: 4 large (peeled and diced - The base for our loaded baked potato layer.)
- —Sour cream: ½ cup - Offers creaminess and tang to the potato layer.
- —Cheddar cheese: 2 cups (shredded - Essential for that melty, cheesy goodness.)
- —Green onions: ¼ cup (chopped - For garnish and added flavor.)
- —Salt: 1 teaspoon - Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- —Pepper: ½ teaspoon - Adds a touch of warmth.
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
- 2
Prepare the meatloaf mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef and 1 pound of ground turkey. Add 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, 1 medium finely chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, ½ cup of ketchup, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- 3
Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom, pressing down gently to form a compact layer.
- 4
Cook the meatloaf: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
- 5
Prepare the potatoes: While the meatloaf is baking, peel and dice 4 large potatoes. Boil them in a pot of salted water until tender, approximately 15-20 minutes. Drain the water and return the potatoes to the pot.
- 6
Add sour cream and cheese: To the drained potatoes, mix in ½ cup of sour cream and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mash the potatoes until creamy and smooth. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- 7
Assemble the casserole: Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven. Spoon the mashed potato mixture over the meatloaf layer, spreading it evenly.
- 8
Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes.
- 9
Bake the final casserole: Return the assembled casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- 10
Garnish and serve: Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Garnish with ¼ cup of chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your cheesy and comforting dish with your favorite sides!