Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food dish that combines two family favorites: meatloaf and loaded mashed potatoes. This hearty casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners or Sunday family meals. The meatloaf layer is flavorful and tender, while the mashed potato topping is loaded with cheese, bacon, and green onions, making it a filling and delicious dish.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf Layer:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or a mixture of ground beef and pork)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

For the Loaded Mashed Potato Topping:

• 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup whole milk
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

• ¼ cup chopped chives for extra flavor in the mashed potatoes
• ½ cup cream cheese for a creamier mashed potato layer

For Serving:

• Steamed vegetables
• A side salad
• Dinner rolls or garlic bread

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Layer

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix until well combined, but do not overmix.
3. Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, forming a flat layer.
4. Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top of the meatloaf (optional for extra flavor).
5. Bake the meatloaf layer in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes while preparing the mashed potatoes.

Step 2: Make the Loaded Mashed Potatoes

1. While the meatloaf is baking, boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 12-15 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them with the butter, sour cream, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
3. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and half of the crumbled bacon.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Once the meatloaf is cooked through, remove it from the oven.
2. Spread the loaded mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meatloaf layer.
3. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Return the assembled casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
2. Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish the casserole with chopped green onions and serve hot alongside your favorite side dishes like steamed vegetables or a salad.

Cooking Notes

• Ground Meat: You can use a combination of ground beef, pork, or even ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Mashed Potatoes: For extra creaminess, feel free to add cream cheese or a little more sour cream.

Variations

1. BBQ Meatloaf Casserole

Swap the ketchup for BBQ sauce in the meatloaf layer for a smoky, tangy flavor. Drizzle some extra BBQ sauce over the top of the mashed potatoes before baking for extra flavor.

2. Cheesy Bacon Ranch Meatloaf Casserole

Add 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix to the mashed potatoes and sprinkle extra ranch seasoning on top for a bacon-ranch twist.

3. Vegetable-Loaded Meatloaf Casserole

For a healthier version, fold in chopped spinach, grated carrots, or diced bell peppers into the meatloaf mixture. You can also add extra vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower to the mashed potatoes.

4. Mexican Meatloaf Casserole

Add taco seasoning to the meatloaf mixture and stir in corn and black beans. Top with a blend of Mexican cheeses and serve with salsa and sour cream on the side.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 1 day. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and bake until heated through.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! After baking, let the casserole cool completely. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.

Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use instant mashed potatoes for the topping. Just make sure they are thick and creamy to hold up well in the casserole.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs in the meatloaf and ensure that your other ingredients (like ketchup and Worcestershire sauce) are gluten-free.

This Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together two classic family favorites into one delicious meal. With layers of savory meatloaf and creamy loaded mashed potatoes, this casserole is sure to become a go-to recipe for busy weeknights and gatherings. Customize it with your favorite add-ins and enjoy this filling and satisfying dish