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Easy Meatloaf Casserole – Comfort Food Family Favorite

Easy Meatloaf Casserole – Comfort Food Family Favorite

A hearty and satisfying easy meatloaf casserole made with juicy seasoned ground beef, topped with creamy mashed potatoes and finished with a rich, tangy glaze. This comforting family favorite is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or cozy gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Chill Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Meatloaf Layer
  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef 80/20 recommended
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup milk
  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika optional
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried
Mashed Potato Layer
  • 3 –4 large potatoes peeled and chopped
  • ¼ cup butter
  • ½ cup milk adjust as needed
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
  • cup ketchup
  • 1 –2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon mustard optional

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Potato masher or hand mixer
  • Medium pot (for boiling potatoes)
  • Baking dish (9x13 inch recommended)
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Prepare Potatoes:
  1. Boil peeled and chopped potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well.
Make Mashed Potatoes:
  1. Mash potatoes with butter and milk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
Preheat Oven:
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
Mix Meatloaf:
  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Mix gently until just combined.
Assemble Base Layer:
  1. Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Add Potato Layer:
  1. Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the meat layer using a spatula.
Prepare Topping:
  1. Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard, then spread evenly over the mashed potatoes.
Bake:
  1. Bake for 40–50 minutes until the meat is fully cooked and the top is slightly golden.
Rest and Serve:
  1. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Avoid overmixing the meat to keep it tender.
Use starchy potatoes like Russet for the creamiest texture.
Letting the casserole rest helps it hold its shape when sliced.
Add shredded cheese between layers or on top for extra richness.
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.