Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole

Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole combines two comfort food classics into one irresistible dish. This hearty casserole layers savory meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a stunning centerpiece for family dinners or gatherings.

Whether you’re looking for a creative twist on traditional meatloaf or a complete meal in one pan, this recipe has you covered. Each bite features the rich, seasoned flavors of meatloaf complemented by the buttery smoothness of loaded mashed potatoes.

Not only is this casserole easy to prepare, but it’s also customizable. You can add extra vegetables, switch up the cheeses, or adjust the seasonings to fit your family’s preferences. It’s the ultimate comfort food that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ultimate Comfort Food: The combination of meatloaf and loaded mashed potatoes is the definition of cozy and indulgent.

Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this casserole, making it a great option for weeknight meals.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the casserole in advance and bake when ready, saving you time during busy days.

Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes—add extra veggies, use a different cheese, or experiment with spices.

Perfect for Gatherings: This casserole is a crowd-pleaser, ideal for potlucks, holidays, or family get-togethers.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings
• Serving Size: 1 generous portion

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 6g

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf Base:

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Loaded Potato Topping:

• 4 cups mashed potatoes (from about 6 medium potatoes)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Base

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, creating a flat, uniform layer.

Step 2: Bake the Meatloaf

1. Bake the meatloaf base in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove from the oven but do not turn off the heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Loaded Mashed Potatoes

1. While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the mashed potatoes if you haven’t already. Peel, dice, and boil the potatoes until fork-tender. Drain well.
2. Mash the potatoes with sour cream, melted butter, cheddar cheese, bacon, green onions, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread the mashed potato mixture evenly over the partially baked meatloaf base. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
2. Sprinkle the additional cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the potato layer.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. If desired, broil for 2–3 minutes to achieve a golden-brown crust on the cheese.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional green onions before serving.

Ingredient Background

Ground Beef

Ground beef forms the hearty base of this dish. Using an 85% lean blend provides the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness without excessive grease.

Mashed Potatoes

The creamy mashed potato topping adds a layer of richness. Sour cream and butter enhance the flavor, while cheddar cheese and bacon bring indulgence.

Cheddar Cheese

A sharp cheddar is ideal for this recipe as it provides a bold, tangy flavor that complements the meatloaf. You can substitute with Monterey Jack or Colby if preferred.

Bacon

Crispy bacon crumbles bring a salty, smoky crunch that elevates the casserole. Use turkey bacon or plant-based alternatives for a lighter option.

Technique Tips

1. Don’t Overmix the Meatloaf: Mixing the meatloaf ingredients too much can result in a dense, tough texture. Combine until just incorporated.
2. Drain the Potatoes Well: Properly draining the boiled potatoes ensures the mashed topping is creamy, not watery.
3. Spread Evenly: Use a spatula to evenly distribute the mashed potatoes and toppings for consistent layers.
4. Broil for a Golden Finish: Broiling at the end gives the cheese topping a delicious, golden-brown crust.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetable-Packed Meatloaf: Add finely chopped carrots, celery, or zucchini to the meatloaf mixture for extra nutrition.
2. Sweet Potato Twist: Use mashed sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweeter, earthier flavor.
3. Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or red chili flakes to the mashed potatoes for a spicy variation.
4. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers in the meatloaf mixture.

Freezing and Storing

Refrigeration

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To retain the best texture and flavor, reheat individual portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For smaller portions, the microwave can also be used, though the mashed potato topping may become slightly softer.

Freezing

To freeze the assembled casserole and preserve its layers and flavors:

1. Cool Completely: Ensure the casserole has cooled entirely to prevent condensation and freezer burn.
2. Wrap Securely: Cover the entire dish tightly with a layer of plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to seal out air.
3. Label and Freeze: Mark with the date and contents before freezing for up to 2 months.
4. Thaw Safely: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator to ensure even reheating.

For added convenience, consider freezing individual portions wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag. This makes reheating quicker and portion control easier.

Reheating Tip

Reheat the casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Add a splash of milk or a pat of butter to the mashed potatoes before reheating for added creaminess. For a crisp topping, uncover for the last 10 minutes of reheating.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Family Dinner

Serve this casserole as the centerpiece of a cozy family dinner, paired with simple sides like a fresh garden salad, roasted Brussels sprouts, or steamed green beans. Add a drizzle of gravy or a dollop of sour cream on the side for extra indulgence.

Holiday Feast

Transform this comforting casserole into a showstopper at your holiday table. Arrange sprigs of fresh parsley or thyme around the edges for a festive presentation. Pair it with classic holiday sides like cranberry sauce, glazed carrots, and dinner rolls for a memorable spread.

Potluck Favorite

This casserole is an ideal dish for potlucks due to its easy transport and universal appeal. Use an insulated carrier to keep it warm, and serve it straight from the dish with a serving spoon. Add garnishes like crumbled bacon or fresh herbs on-site for an extra touch.

Meal Prep

Turn leftovers into convenient meal prep by dividing the casserole into individual containers. Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a light coleslaw to create a balanced, satisfying lunch or dinner that reheats well throughout the week.

Casual Gathering

Hosting friends for a game night or casual dinner? Serve this casserole family-style, allowing guests to help themselves. Provide optional toppings like shredded cheese, hot sauce, or crispy fried onions for customization.

Special Equipment

1. 9×13-Inch Baking Dish
   A large, durable baking dish ensures the casserole cooks evenly and provides enough space for layering meatloaf and potatoes without spilling.
2. Potato Masher
   Essential for creating smooth, fluffy mashed potatoes. A sturdy masher helps incorporate sour cream, butter, and seasonings evenly.
3. Mixing Bowls
   Use separate mixing bowls for the meatloaf base and mashed potato topping to streamline preparation and keep ingredients organized.
4. Spatula
   A wide, flat spatula is perfect for spreading mashed potatoes smoothly across the meatloaf layer, ensuring even coverage and a polished appearance.
5. Aluminum Foil
   Useful for covering the casserole during reheating to lock in moisture and prevent the edges from drying out.
6. Kitchen Thermometer (Optional)
   Helps ensure the meatloaf layer is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

By following these tips and techniques, your casserole will maintain its flavor, texture, and visual appeal, whether served fresh or reheated from frozen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
   Yes, but homemade mashed potatoes provide a fresher, more flavorful topping.
2. Can I substitute the ground beef?
   Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter version.
3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes, assemble it up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Add 10 minutes to the baking time when ready to cook.
4. What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
   Crushed crackers, oats, or even panko breadcrumbs make excellent substitutes.
5. Can I use pre-cooked mashed potatoes?
   Yes, as long as they’re seasoned to your taste and reheated slightly to make them easier to spread.
6. What other cheeses can I use?
   Monterey Jack, Gouda, or a Mexican cheese blend can be great alternatives to cheddar.
7. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
8. Can I freeze individual portions?
   Yes! Wrap each portion tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag.

Conclusion

Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth, flavor, and satisfaction to any table. Combining tender, flavorful meatloaf with a creamy, cheesy potato topping, it’s a dish that feels indulgent yet familiar. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this casserole is as versatile as it is delicious.

Take the time to customize it with your favorite cheeses, seasonings, or vegetables. Every forkful will remind you why this recipe is destined to become a household favorite. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or a festive holiday gathering, this casserole is sure to impress!

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