Description

Mushroom Swiss Bacon Meatloaf Casserole is an inventive take on meatloaf that transforms the beloved dish into a layered casserole. The ground beef is mixed with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings to create a flavorful base. Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy richness, while crispy bacon brings a satisfying crunch. The casserole is topped with a generous layer of Swiss cheese, which melts into a creamy, gooey topping that ties all the flavors together.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients List (with Measurements)

For the Meatloaf Base:

2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 large eggs, beaten
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

For the Toppings:

8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Mushrooms

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are golden brown and have released their moisture, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Cook the Bacon

In the same skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble it into small pieces. Set aside.

4. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried thyme (if using). Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Spread the meatloaf mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Layer the sautéed mushrooms over the meatloaf mixture, followed by the crumbled bacon. Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the top.

6. Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the meatloaf is cooked through.

7. Cool and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

Tips and Notes

Add a Kick: If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture for a subtle heat that complements the smoky bacon and earthy mushrooms.
Cheese Variations: While Swiss cheese adds a creamy, mild flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or mozzarella for a different taste and texture. Each cheese will bring its own unique flavor to the casserole.
Vegetable Additions: For added nutrition and flavor, try incorporating additional vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Simply sauté them along with the mushrooms before adding them to the casserole.
Make It Ahead: This casserole can be prepared a day in advance. Assemble the dish and cover it with aluminum foil, then store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Allow the casserole to come to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.