Description
This Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comforting main-course, combining juicy meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and melty cheese into one family-friendly dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a hearty, classic meal that’s pure comfort in every bite!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Meatloaf Layer
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Mashed Potato Layer
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (about 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Meatloaf Layer: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, diced onion, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, forming an even layer.
- Bake the Meatloaf: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatloaf layer is mostly cooked through and firm to the touch. Remove from oven but leave oven on.
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: While the meatloaf is baking, boil peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain, then return potatoes to the pot. Add butter, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spoon the mashed potatoes evenly over the baked meatloaf layer in the baking dish. Gently spread to the edges using a spatula.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potato layer, then top with crumbled bacon and chives or green onions if using.
- Bake Again: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
- Serve: Remove from oven, let cool for 5 minutes, then slice and serve warm. Enjoy your loaded casserole as a main dish!
Notes
- Make ahead by assembling the casserole up to a day in advance; cover and refrigerate, then bake before serving.
- Swap cheddar with your favorite cheese blend, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
- For extra flavor, add a layer of sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers between the meat and potatoes.
- This dish freezes well; cool completely before wrapping and freezing for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
