Delicious Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole
Need a super yummy and easy to make Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole recipe? Get the recipe and ingredients below!
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Craving a meal that’s both hearty and indulgent?
Look no further than this Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole.
Combining the savory goodness of a classic meatloaf with the creamy, cheesy decadence of loaded mashed potatoes, this dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests.
What is a Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole?
This dish layers a flavorful meatloaf base with creamy mashed potatoes, topped with crispy bacon and melted cheddar cheese.
It’s the ultimate comfort food, delivering a harmonious blend of savory, creamy, and crunchy textures.
Ingredients for Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole
Meatloaf Layer
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef or turkey
- ½ cup white onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- ⅓ cup cottage cheese
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
Potato Layer
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup warm milk or half-and-half
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
Toppings
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Substitutions and Variations
- Protein: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative.
- Cheese: Experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack.
- Potatoes: Swap out regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness.
- Add-ins: Include chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas for added nutrition.
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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Layer
- In a large bowl, mix the ground beef (or turkey), onion, garlic, bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, egg, cottage cheese, and BBQ sauce.
- Spread the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Bake the Meatloaf Layer
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until partially cooked.
Step 4: Prepare Mashed Potatoes
- While the meatloaf is baking, boil the diced potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes.
- Drain and mash with butter, sour cream, warm milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and drain any excess grease.
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf layer.
Step 6: Add Toppings and Final Bake
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the mashed potatoes.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Meatloaf: Mix ingredients just until combined to avoid a dense texture.
- Lumpy Potatoes: Mash potatoes thoroughly for a creamy consistency.
- Underseasoning: Season both the meatloaf and mashed potatoes generously.
- Skipping the Grease Drain: Drain excess grease from the meatloaf to keep the casserole from becoming too oily.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How to Serve
- Portion into generous squares or slices.
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or dinner rolls for a complete meal.
Presentation Ideas
- Layered Look: Use a clear glass baking dish to showcase the distinct layers of meatloaf and potatoes.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives over the top for a pop of color and flavor.
Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
- Freezing: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, but homemade mashed potatoes offer better flavor and texture.
Q: How can I make this dish lighter?
Use ground turkey, low-fat cheese, and Greek yogurt in place of sour cream.
Q: Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Diced carrots, peas, or sautéed spinach can be added to the meatloaf mixture or potato layer.
Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef or turkey
- ½ cup white onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- ⅓ cup cottage cheese
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup warm milk or half-and-half
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
- Mix ground meat with onion, garlic, bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, egg, cottage cheese, and BBQ sauce. Spread in the dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Boil potatoes until tender. Mash with butter, sour cream, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Spread mashed potatoes over the meatloaf. Top with cheese and bacon.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Conclusion
Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is the epitome of comfort food.
With its rich, savory meatloaf base and creamy, cheesy potato topping, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Customize it to your liking and enjoy this satisfying dish any time you need a hearty meal. Happy cooking!