Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole

Picture this: a warm, hearty casserole filled with creamy mashed potatoes, savory meatloaf, and plenty of melted cheese. Now, take that picture and imagine it becoming your new favorite dinner—trust me, Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole will absolutely steal the show. This dish is the best of both worlds: the comforting, creamy richness of loaded potatoes paired with the satisfying, savory goodness of meatloaf, all baked into one perfect casserole. The cheese, bacon, and green onions on top? Total game-changer. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family meal or a gathering with friends, this casserole will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole

Ultimate Comfort Food

This casserole combines all the comforting flavors we love: creamy mashed potatoes, tender meatloaf, melty cheese, and crispy bacon. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug, but even better.

Hearty & Filling

With layers of potatoes and meatloaf, this dish is hearty enough to be a satisfying main course. It’s perfect for those nights when you want a meal that will really stick to your ribs.

Easy to Make

Even though it might sound like a complicated dish, it’s actually quite simple. It comes together quickly, and the oven does most of the work. Perfect for busy nights when you want to enjoy a comforting meal without too much fuss.

Crowd-Pleasing

This casserole is one of those dishes that makes everyone at the table smile. It’s super satisfying and packed with flavor, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Customizable

Don’t be afraid to make this casserole your own! You can add extra veggies, switch up the meat, or even experiment with different cheese varieties. It’s versatile, so you can tweak it however you like.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole:

For the Meatloaf:

• Ground Beef: This is the base of your meatloaf, but you can also use ground turkey, chicken, or pork if you prefer.
• Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatloaf together and gives it the perfect texture.
• Egg: To hold everything together.
• Onion: Adds flavor and depth to the meatloaf.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the meatloaf a savory punch.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A key ingredient that gives the meatloaf that classic, rich umami flavor.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste.

For the Loaded Potatoes:

• Russet Potatoes: These are perfect for mashed potatoes, as they become light and fluffy when cooked.
• Butter: Adds richness and creaminess to the mashed potatoes.
• Milk: Helps make the mashed potatoes smooth and creamy.
• Cheddar Cheese: For that ooey-gooey, melty cheese layer on top.
• Bacon: Crispy bacon crumbles add flavor and texture to the potatoes.
• Green Onions: For a pop of freshness and color.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Nutrition Facts

Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 35g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 4g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 950mg
• Potassium: 850mg
• Calcium: 20% DV
• Iron: 15% DV
• Vitamin A: 10% DV
• Vitamin C: 20% DV

This dish is filling, flavorful, and packed with protein, making it a balanced option for any meal.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Instructions

Here’s how to make Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole—it’s easier than you think!

Prepare the Meatloaf

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until just combined—be careful not to overwork the meat. Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking dish or on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Cook the Potatoes

While the meatloaf is baking, peel and chop the potatoes into chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for 12-15 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, salt, and pepper, and mash until smooth and creamy. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, then set aside.

Assemble the Casserole

Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and carefully slice it into thick slices. Layer the mashed potatoes in the bottom of a casserole dish, then arrange the slices of meatloaf on top. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of the meatloaf, then finish with crispy bacon crumbles and chopped green onions.

Bake the Casserole

Return the casserole to the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you want the top to be extra crispy, turn the broiler on for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping an eye on it to prevent burning.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Spoon out generous portions, making sure to get a bit of everything in each bite!

How to Serve Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole

With a Simple Salad

Pair the casserole with a fresh side salad for a light, crunchy contrast. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the casserole perfectly.

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are always a welcome addition to this kind of meal. You can never have enough bread to soak up all that cheesy goodness!

Roasted Veggies

For a well-rounded meal, serve the casserole alongside some roasted vegetables. Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans would all be great options.

Extra Toppings

Top your casserole with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of ranch dressing for added flavor. Fresh parsley or cilantro can also be sprinkled on top for a bit of color and freshness.

Additional Tips

Make Ahead

You can prepare the meatloaf and mashed potatoes ahead of time. Assemble the casserole, but don’t bake it. Cover and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This is perfect for busy days when you want a quick and easy dinner.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully! After assembling, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Customize Your Meatloaf

Feel free to experiment with the meatloaf by adding different seasonings or even veggies. Grated carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be added to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrients.

Add Extra Cheese

If you’re a cheese lover, you can add extra layers of cheese between the mashed potatoes and meatloaf, or sprinkle a bit more on top for that extra cheesy goodness.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of meat?
A1: Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork would all work in this casserole. Choose the meat that you prefer or have on hand.

Q2: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! Prepare the meatloaf and mashed potatoes earlier in the day, then assemble the casserole. You can store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q3: Can I freeze leftovers?
A3: Yes, this casserole freezes well. After assembling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q4: How can I make this casserole spicier?
A4: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some chili flakes or hot sauce into the mashed potatoes or meatloaf mixture. You could also add some diced jalapeños or spicy sausage to the meatloaf.

Q5: Can I use a different type of potato?
A5: While russet potatoes work best for mashed potatoes, you can also use Yukon Golds or red potatoes if you prefer a creamier or slightly firmer texture.

Q6: How do I store leftovers?
A6: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Q7: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A7: Yes! Swap the meatloaf for a vegetarian meat substitute (like lentils or plant-based ground meat), and you’re good to go.

Q8: Can I use instant potatoes instead of fresh ones?
A8: While fresh potatoes will give the best texture, you can use instant mashed potatoes in a pinch. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for the best results.

Q9: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A9: Yes! Use dairy-free butter and milk in the mashed potatoes, and opt for a dairy-free cheese to make this dish dairy-free.

Q10: How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too dry?
A10: Make sure to cover the casserole with foil during the initial baking to keep moisture in. You can also add a little extra milk or butter to the mashed potatoes for a creamier texture.

Conclusion

Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate cozy, comfort meal that will quickly become a family favorite. With layers of creamy mashed potatoes, savory meatloaf, crispy bacon, and plenty of cheese, it’s the perfect dish for satisfying appetites and warming hearts. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just need a weeknight meal that delivers big on flavor, this casserole is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite!

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