Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole

Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole

Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines two classic favorites into one delicious meal. This recipe is perfect for families looking for a filling dinner that is both easy to make and satisfying. With layers of savory meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, and melted cheese, this casserole will surely become a new favorite in your home.

Why Make This Recipe

This casserole is not just about great taste; it’s also about convenience. You can prepare it in advance, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Everyone loves the combination of flavors and textures, from the juicy meatloaf to the creamy mashed potatoes and crispy bacon on top. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables if you choose to add them. Overall, it’s a hearty one-dish meal that your family will love.

How to Make Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole

Ingredients:

• Ground beef (80/20)
• Breadcrumbs (or panko/crushed crackers)
• Eggs
• Onion (finely chopped)
• Garlic (fresh or powder)
• Ketchup
• Worcestershire sauce
• Russet potatoes
• Butter
• Milk or cream
• Cheddar cheese (sharp)
• Cooked bacon
• Green onions
• Salt and pepper

Directions:

1. Prepare the potatoes by peeling and cubing them, then boiling until fork tender. Drain and mash with butter and milk, then season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
3. Mix the meatloaf by combining ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Do not overmix.
4. Press the meat mixture into the baking dish evenly.
5. Bake the meatloaf layer in the oven for 25 minutes.
6. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf layer.
7. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, cooked bacon, and green onions.
8. Bake again for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Broil for an additional 2–3 minutes for a golden top.
9. Allow to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole

This casserole is delightful when served warm, straight from the oven. You can pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Cut it into squares for individual servings, and don’t forget to drizzle some extra ketchup or barbecue sauce on the side for those who like a little extra flavor.

How to Store Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven until heated through.

Tips to Make Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole

• Make sure not to overmix the meatloaf mixture, as this can lead to a tough texture.
• Feel free to customize the toppings by adding your favorite cheese or vegetables to the mashed potatoes.
• If you want a little spice, add some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the meat mixture.

Variation

You can try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this casserole. Additionally, consider adding vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers to the meat mixture to boost nutrition.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole? Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it well and store it for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the baking instructions.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the whole casserole in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
3. What can I serve with Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole? This dish goes well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or even some garlic bread for a complete meal.

Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole

A comforting and hearty casserole combining savory meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners.

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 550

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Meatloaf

• 1 lb Ground beef (80/20) You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• 1 cup Breadcrumbs Or panko/crushed crackers.
• 1 large Eggs Beaten.
• 1 medium Onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves Garlic (fresh or powder) Minced if fresh.
• 1/2 cup Ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste.
• 1/2 tsp Pepper Adjust to taste.

For the Mashed Potatoes and Topping

• 4 large Russet potatoes Peeled and cubed.
• 4 tbsp Butter For mashing.
• 1/2 cup Milk or cream Adjust for desired creaminess.
• 1 cup Cheddar cheese (sharp) Shredded.
• 4 slices Cooked bacon Crumble for topping.
• 2 tbsp Green onions Sliced for garnish.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Prepare the potatoes by peeling and cubing them, then boiling until fork tender. Drain and mash with butter and milk, then season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

Meatloaf Assembly

1. Mix the meatloaf ingredients: Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Do not overmix.
2. Press the meat mixture into the baking dish evenly.
3. Bake the meatloaf layer in the oven for 25 minutes.

Final Assembly

1. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf layer.
2. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, cooked bacon, and green onions.
3. Bake again for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Broil for an additional 2–3 minutes for a golden top.
4. Allow to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Make sure not to overmix the meatloaf mixture to avoid a tough texture. Customize the toppings by adding your favorite cheese or vegetables, and consider adding jalapeños or hot sauce for spice.