Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole

Introduction:

Looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor? Look no further than this Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole recipe! Combining the classic flavors of meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheddar cheese, and zesty green onions, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this delicious casserole step by step.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup ketchup

For the Potato Layer:

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Press the meatloaf mixture into the bottom of the greased baking dish, forming an even layer.
4. Spread the ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf layer.
5. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, allowing the meatloaf to cook partially.
6. While the meatloaf is baking, boil the sliced potatoes in a pot of water until they are tender, which typically takes about 15 minutes. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and transfer them to a mixing bowl.
7. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or fork until they reach your desired consistency. Then, mix in the sour cream, milk, and butter until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Remove the partially cooked meatloaf from the oven and carefully spread the mashed potato mixture evenly over the top.
9. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions over the mashed potatoes.
10. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Once cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
12. Serve up generous portions of this delicious Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole and enjoy!

Serving Tips:

1. Serve this Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole hot straight from the oven for the best flavor and texture.
2. Garnish individual servings with additional chopped green onions or a dollop of sour cream for an extra burst of freshness and flavor.
3. Pair this casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-balanced meal.
4. Consider serving it with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread to mop up any delicious juices.

Storage Tips:

1. If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before storing it.
2. Transfer any remaining portions to an airtight container or wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
3. Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
4. To reheat, simply place individual servings in the microwave or oven until heated through.
5. Note that the texture of the mashed potatoes may change slightly upon reheating, but the flavors will still be delicious.
6. Avoid freezing leftovers, as the texture of the potatoes and meatloaf may become watery when thawed and reheated.

Nutritional Information:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 65 minutes
• Calories: 600 kcal per serving
• Servings: 6 servings

Variations of Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole Recipe:

1. Turkey Meatloaf: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey to create a lighter version of this casserole. Turkey meatloaf offers a leaner option without compromising on flavor. Follow the same recipe instructions, substituting ground turkey for the ground beef.
2. Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free alternative, omit the ground beef altogether and replace it with cooked lentils or a meat substitute such as crumbled tofu or tempeh. Add extra seasonings and spices to enhance the flavor of the vegetarian “meatloaf” layer.
3. Mexican-Inspired Twist: Give this casserole a Southwestern flair by incorporating ingredients like black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and Mexican-inspired spices such as cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Top the mashed potatoes with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and fresh cilantro for a festive touch.
4. Italian-Inspired Variation: Infuse the casserole with Italian flavors by adding ingredients like Italian sausage, diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, and Parmesan cheese. Layer the mashed potatoes with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese for a comforting Italian twist.
5. Loaded Breakfast Casserole: Transform this dish into a hearty breakfast option by adding breakfast sausage or bacon to the meatloaf layer. Mix in scrambled eggs and chopped spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Top with shredded hash browns and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before baking.
6. Gluten-Free Option: Make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond meal in place of traditional breadcrumbs. Ensure all other ingredients, including Worcestershire sauce, are also gluten-free. Serve with a side of gluten-free garlic bread or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
7. Low-Carb Version: Reduce the carb content of this casserole by replacing the potatoes with cauliflower mash. Steam or boil cauliflower florets until tender, then mash with sour cream, butter, and cheese as you would with potatoes. Use a smaller amount of breadcrumbs or omit them entirely from the meatloaf mixture to further reduce carbs.
8. Mediterranean-Inspired Twist: Add Mediterranean flair to the casserole by incorporating ingredients like ground lamb, diced tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and fresh herbs such as parsley and dill. Season with Mediterranean spices like garlic powder, oregano, and lemon zest for a burst of flavor.

These variations offer exciting ways to customize the Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole recipe to suit different dietary preferences and flavor preferences. Experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to create a casserole that’s uniquely delicious every time!

Conclusion:

With its savory meatloaf base, creamy mashed potatoes, and cheesy topping, this Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole is a true comfort food classic. Perfect for feeding a hungry family or for bringing to a potluck dinner, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a hearty and delicious meal that’s guaranteed to satisfy!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole:

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply follow the recipe instructions up to the point of baking, then cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
2. Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole? While it’s best to enjoy this casserole fresh, you can freeze leftovers for later consumption. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire dish to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
3. Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe? Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is traditionally used in this recipe, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Customize the cheese selection based on your personal preferences.
4. Can I substitute mashed sweet potatoes for regular potatoes? Yes, you can substitute mashed sweet potatoes for regular potatoes to add a hint of sweetness to the casserole. Prepare the sweet potatoes in the same manner as the regular potatoes, adjusting the seasoning to complement their natural sweetness.
5. Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian? Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of this casserole by omitting the ground beef and replacing it with cooked lentils, crumbled tofu, or a meat substitute. Ensure that the other ingredients used, such as Worcestershire sauce, are vegetarian-friendly.
6. Can I use ground chicken instead of ground beef? Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great alternative to ground beef and can be used interchangeably in this recipe. Adjust the seasonings as needed to suit the lighter flavor profile of chicken.
7. Can I add additional vegetables to this casserole? Yes, you can add extra vegetables to the meatloaf mixture or mashed potato layer to increase the nutritional content and add more flavor. Consider incorporating diced carrots, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrients.
8. How can I make this casserole spicy? To add a spicy kick to this casserole, consider adding diced jalapeños or green chilies to the meatloaf mixture or mashed potato layer. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper over the top before baking for extra heat.
9. Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead of fresh potatoes? While fresh potatoes are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use instant mashed potatoes as a time-saving alternative. Follow the package instructions to prepare the instant mashed potatoes, then spread them over the meatloaf layer as directed in the recipe.
10. Can I make this casserole dairy-free? Yes, you can make this casserole dairy-free by using dairy-free substitutes for ingredients such as sour cream, milk, and cheese. Opt for alternatives like almond milk, coconut milk, dairy-free sour cream, and vegan cheese to accommodate dairy allergies or dietary preferences.