If classic meatloaf had a bold, indulgent upgrade, this would be it. Ultimate Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole takes everything we love about traditional meatloaf—juicy ground beef, savory seasoning, and rich sauce—and layers it with melted cheese, crispy golden tater tots, and a deeply flavorful glaze that soaks into every bite.
This is not your average weeknight dinner. This is crowd-pleasing, stick-to-your-ribs comfort food, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, Sunday meals, or anytime you want something warm, filling, and unapologetically delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Cheesy Meatloaf
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🧀 Loaded with gooey, melted cheese
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🥩 Extra-juicy, well-seasoned beef base
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🥔 Crispy tater tots for texture contrast
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🍅 Rich, tangy sauce in every layer
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🍽️ Feeds a crowd and reheats beautifully
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🔥 Classic comfort food with a modern twist
This casserole delivers layers of flavor, texture, and nostalgia in one baking dish.
What Is Ultimate Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole?
This dish is a layered meatloaf bake made with seasoned ground beef pressed into a casserole dish, topped with a savory sauce, melted cheese, and crispy tater tots (or potatoes). Instead of shaping a loaf, everything is baked flat, allowing the flavors to blend and the cheese to melt into every crevice.
Think of it as:
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Meatloaf meets cheeseburger
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Shepherd’s pie meets comfort casserole
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A fork-perfect, family-friendly classic
Ingredients You’ll Need
Meatloaf Base
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2 pounds ground beef (80/20 recommended)
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1 cup breadcrumbs
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 large eggs
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½ cup milk
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2 teaspoons garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
Sauce Layer
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½ cup ketchup
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¼ cup barbecue sauce
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2 tablespoons brown sugar
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Cheesy Topping
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheddar-jack blend)
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1 bag frozen tater tots
