If you’re craving a comforting dish that brings together the hearty flavors of your favorite meatloaf and the irresistible charm of loaded baked potatoes, then you’ve got to try this Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole Recipe. It’s a joyful combination of savory ground beef, fluffy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese, all baked to perfection in one cozy casserole. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that will have everyone asking for seconds and sharing stories over the dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an important role, whether it’s lending flavor, creating texture, or adding color, making the final dish both delicious and visually inviting.
- 1 lb ground beef: The star protein that forms the savory base of the meatloaf layer.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meat mixture together for that perfect meatloaf texture.
- 1/4 cup milk: Adds moisture to keep the meatloaf tender and juicy.
- 1/4 cup ketchup: Gives a tangy sweetness that enriches the meatloaf flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a deep, savory umami kick.
- 1 egg: Acts as a natural binder, ensuring everything holds together.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: A subtle herbaceous hint for freshness.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses gentle garlicky warmth without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring all flavors alive.
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed: The backbone of the creamy mashed potato layer.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and smoothness to the mashed potatoes.
- 1/2 cup milk (for mashed potatoes): Ensures fluffy and creamy potato texture.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Melts perfectly for cheesy layers and topping.
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled: Brings smoky, crispy bites to every spoonful.
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish): Offers a fresh, vibrant contrast on top.
How to Make Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
Start by combining the ground beef, breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, egg, dried parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. This mixture will become the flavorful foundation of your casserole.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
While mixing the meatloaf, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the peeled and cubed russet potatoes. Boil until tender, about 15 minutes, then drain thoroughly. Return the potatoes to the pot, add butter and 1/2 cup milk, and mash until smooth and creamy. This mashed potato layer is what will make the casserole truly loaded and rich.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased casserole dish, spread the meatloaf mixture evenly across the bottom. Next, cover the meat layer with the creamy mashed potatoes. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes, then the crumbled cooked bacon for that extra savory crunch.
Step 4: Bake and Melt
Top the casserole with the remaining cheddar cheese, then place in the oven. Bake for about 35-40 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown around the edges. This step melds all the flavors together while giving the dish an irresistible cheesy crust.
How to Serve Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions over the hot casserole just before serving. Their bright color and mild onion flavor add a fresh, lively contrast to the rich and hearty casserole, making each bite feel perfectly balanced.
Side Dishes
This casserole is quite filling on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. The crispness of the sides cuts through the casserole’s richness and adds a welcome textural contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a family dinner or potluck, serve this casserole in individual ramekins for a charming personal touch. Alternatively, layer the casserole in clear glass dishes to show off those tempting layers of meat, potatoes, cheese, and bacon for a visually stunning presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole Recipe keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain moisture and flavor, then simply reheat portions as needed.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully, making it an excellent meal prep option. Freeze in a tightly sealed container after baking, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results before reheating.
Reheating
When reheating, cover the casserole with foil to prevent the top from drying out. Heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover to keep it moist.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative that still provides great flavor and texture in the Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole Recipe. Just keep an eye on cooking times as turkey can cook a bit faster.
What type of potatoes work best for this casserole?
Russet potatoes are ideal because they’re starchy and perfect for mashing into creamy goodness. Other varieties like Yukon Gold can work, but may yield a slightly different texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
You can create a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or cooked lentils, and replacing bacon with smoked tempeh or mushrooms to keep the smoky flavor.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, just add extra baking time and bake uncovered, checking until hot and bubbly.
What can I do if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
If you’re out of Worcestershire sauce, you can use soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar with a pinch of sugar for a similar savory depth in the Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole Recipe is truly one of those dishes you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for cozy family dinners or weekend gatherings. Every bite combines the best of hearty, home-cooked flavors with easy preparation that feels like a genuine treat. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this deliciously satisfying casserole—you won’t regret it!
Print
Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole combines the comforting flavors of classic meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish. Ground beef seasoned with breadcrumbs, milk, and spices is baked under a layer of buttery mashed potatoes, cheese, and crispy bacon, then topped with green onions for a delicious finish. Perfect for family dinners and easy to prepare in under an hour.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Potatoes and Topping
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup milk (for mashed potatoes)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the meatloaf mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, egg, dried parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Cook the potatoes: Peel and cube the russet potatoes. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes.
- Mash the potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, 1/2 cup milk, salt, and pepper to taste. Mash until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the meatloaf mixture evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the meat mixture, then spread the mashed potatoes evenly on top of the cheese layer.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes, followed by the crumbled bacon.
- Bake the casserole: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the chopped green onions on top before serving for a fresh, flavorful finish.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner meat option.
- For a richer flavor, use sharp cheddar cheese.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Add extra green onions or fresh herbs for more vibrant garnish.
- If preferred, use smoked paprika or onion powder in the meat mixture for added depth of flavor.
