A comforting Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole with layers of seasoned beef, creamy mashed potatoes, bacon, and cheese. The perfect all-in-one dish!
Introduction
If you’re in the mood for comfort food with a twist, look no further than this Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole. This recipe combines the best of two classics: the savory flavors of meatloaf and the creamy goodness of loaded mashed potatoes. The result is a rich, satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Imagine a juicy meatloaf layer topped with smooth mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, melty cheese, and a sprinkle of green onions for a bit of freshness. It’s a complete meal all in one dish—no need to worry about side dishes! Not only does this casserole taste amazing, but it’s also super easy to make and is a great way to use up leftovers. If you’re craving a hearty, filling dinner that’s packed with flavor, this casserole will soon become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients
- For the meatloaf base:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- For the potato topping:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the meatloaf base: In a bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well and press the mixture into a greased baking dish, forming an even layer.
- Bake the meatloaf: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 minutes while preparing the potatoes.
- Make the mashed potatoes: Boil the peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash the potatoes, then stir in the butter, milk, sour cream, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the casserole: Once the meatloaf is cooked, spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top.
- Bake again: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
How to Prepare
Start by assembling the meatloaf layer, mixing ground beef with seasonings, breadcrumbs, and an egg to bind it all together. After pressing the mixture into a baking dish, it goes into the oven while you prepare your creamy mashed potatoes. For the potato topping, boil the potatoes until tender, mash them, and mix in milk, butter, and sour cream to create a smooth texture. After the meatloaf has baked, spread the mashed potatoes on top and load it up with cheddar cheese and crispy bacon. Bake until the cheese melts, and garnish with green onions for a final touch.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 25 minutes
- Cook time: 40 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour, 5 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 6 people.
FAQs
Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
A: Yes, instant mashed potatoes can be used if you’re short on time. Just prepare them according to the package instructions and proceed with the recipe.
Q: Can I substitute ground turkey for ground beef?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and provides a lighter option. Just be sure to season it generously to enhance the flavor.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf layer?
A: Yes, you can! Diced carrots, bell peppers, or even spinach can be mixed into the meatloaf for added nutrients.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add about 10 extra minutes to the final baking time to ensure everything is heated through.
Q: Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, it freezes well! Assemble the casserole and freeze it before the second baking step. When ready to eat, thaw and bake as directed.
Conclusion
The Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food dish that brings together the best of both worlds—juicy, flavorful meatloaf and creamy, loaded mashed potatoes. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or serving as a hearty weeknight dinner. Plus, the addition of bacon and cheese gives it that extra layer of indulgence that makes it impossible to resist. The recipe is flexible, allowing for substitutions like ground turkey or additional veggies, making it easy to tailor to your family’s preferences. Whether you’re making it ahead for busy nights or whipping it up for a weekend treat, this casserole will leave everyone at the table satisfied and asking for seconds!
