Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

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Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole Recipe – The Ultimate Comfort Food

If you’re searching for the perfect hearty dinner recipe that combines two of the most beloved comfort foods — meatloaf and mashed potatoes — look no further than this Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole. It’s a delicious twist on a traditional meatloaf dinner, layered with creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and savory ground beef, baked to golden perfection in a single dish.

This casserole is an ideal meal for feeding a hungry crowd, bringing warmth to family dinner tables, or making ahead for busy weeknights. Every bite delivers a combination of textures and flavors that feels like a warm hug in a dish.

Why You’ll Love This Casserole

  • All-in-one meal – Protein, starch, and dairy in every layer
  • Family favorite – Kids and adults alike go back for seconds
  • Make-ahead friendly – Perfect for prep and freeze
  • Comfort food at its finest – Cheesy, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying

Ingredients for Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole

For the Meatloaf Base:

  • 1.5 pounds ground beef
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Mashed Potato Layer:

  • 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared in advance or made fresh)
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings:

  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 2 green onions, chopped (optional)

How to Make Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Layer

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

  • Ground beef
  • Egg
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Chopped onion
  • Minced garlic
  • Milk
  • Ketchup
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper

Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Be careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.

Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish.

Step 2: Bake the Meatloaf Base

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the meatloaf layer in the oven and bake for 25 minutes. Drain any excess fat that may accumulate in the pan.

Step 3: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the meatloaf bakes, prepare your mashed potatoes. You can use leftover mashed potatoes or make a fresh batch. Mix in sour cream, butter, and salt and pepper until smooth and creamy.

🥔 Tip: For extra creamy potatoes, whip with a hand mixer after mashing.

Step 4: Layer the Potatoes Over the Meat

Once the meatloaf layer is cooked, remove from the oven. Carefully spread the mashed potatoes on top of the meat layer using a spatula, smoothing it evenly.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bacon

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes. Top with crumbled bacon.

Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions for added flavor and color. Slice and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is filling enough to be served on its own, but you can pair it with:

  • Steamed green beans or broccoli
  • Garden salad with vinaigrette
  • Dinner rolls or cornbread
  • Pickled beets or cucumber salad for a tangy contrast

Storage & Reheating Tips

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until heated through.

🔁 This casserole reheats beautifully and is even better the next day!

Recipe Variations

  • Loaded Sweet Potato Twist: Use mashed sweet potatoes for a sweeter, healthier option.
  • Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne to the meatloaf mix.
  • Southwest Style: Add taco seasoning to the beef and top with pepper jack cheese and salsa.
  • Vegetable Boost: Stir steamed peas, corn, or chopped spinach into the mashed potatoes.

Conclusion: Comfort in Every Bite

This Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole takes comfort food to the next level. It’s everything you love about a classic meatloaf dinner, layered into a rich, cheesy, and satisfying casserole. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family meal, a potluck, or to stock the freezer, it’s guaranteed to be a hit every single time.

So grab your casserole dish and get ready to serve up some serious smiles with this homestyle masterpiece.

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