Delicious Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole

Need a super yummy and easy to make Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole recipe? Get the recipe and ingredients below!

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.

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

1. In a large bowl, mix the ground beef (or turkey), onion, garlic, bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, egg, cottage cheese, and BBQ sauce.
2. 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

1. While the meatloaf is baking, boil the diced potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes.
2. Drain and mash with butter, sour cream, warm milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Remove the baking dish from the oven and drain any excess grease.
2. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf layer.

Step 6: Add Toppings and Final Bake

1. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the mashed potatoes.
2. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the Meatloaf: Mix ingredients just until combined to avoid a dense texture.
2. Lumpy Potatoes: Mash potatoes thoroughly for a creamy consistency.
3. Underseasoning: Season both the meatloaf and mashed potatoes generously.
4. 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.

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

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
2. Mix ground meat with onion, garlic, bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, egg, cottage cheese, and BBQ sauce. Spread in the dish.
3. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
4. Boil potatoes until tender. Mash with butter, sour cream, milk, salt, and pepper.
5. Spread mashed potatoes over the meatloaf. Top with cheese and bacon.
6. Bake for 15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

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!