Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic

If you’re looking for a hearty, family-friendly dinner that combines the best of meatloaf and loaded mashed potatoes, look no further than this Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole. This dish is the ultimate comfort food, blending savory ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheese into one delicious casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making this Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole, from the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to tips for customization and storage. Let’s dive in!

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Why You’ll Love This Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole

This casserole is a crowd-pleaser for so many reasons:

• Kid-Friendly: The combination of meatloaf and mashed potatoes is a classic that kids and adults alike will love.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: The rich flavors of beef, bacon, cheese, and creamy mashed potatoes make this dish the ultimate comfort food.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

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Ingredients for Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole

To make this delicious casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Meatloaf Base:

• 1 1/2 pounds Ground Beef (85/15): The slightly higher fat content ensures a juicy and flavorful meatloaf.
• 1/4 yellow onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 2/3 cup seasoned dry breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatloaf together.
• 1/3 cup whole milk: Keeps the meatloaf moist.
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten: Acts as a binder for the meatloaf.
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt: Enhances the flavor of the meatloaf.
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.

For the Loaded Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cut into 1″ chunks: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for creamy mashed potatoes.
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness to the mashed potatoes.
• 1/2 cup whole milk: Makes the mashed potatoes creamy and smooth.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Seasons the potatoes.
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat.

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup bacon bits, cooked and crumbled: Adds a smoky, crispy texture.
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded: Melts into a gooey, cheesy layer on top.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the casserole.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Base

1. In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
2. Press the meatloaf mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Meatloaf

1. Bake the meatloaf uncovered for 15 minutes. This allows the meatloaf to cook slightly and release any excess fat.
2. Remove the baking dish from the oven and drain any excess fat using a spoon or paper towels.

Step 4: Prepare the Loaded Mashed Potatoes

1. While the meatloaf is baking, add the peeled and chopped potatoes to a large pot. Cover them with just enough water to submerge them.
2. Bring the water to a boil over high heat and cook the potatoes for 15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
3. Drain the water from the pot and add the butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
4. Mash the potatoes until they are creamy and smooth. For extra creaminess, you can use a hand mixer or potato masher.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the partially cooked meatloaf.
2. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon bits on top of the mashed potatoes.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

1. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the mashed potatoes are slightly crispy on top.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Slice into portions and enjoy this comforting, flavorful dish!

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The Perfect Meatloaf Base for Your Casserole

The foundation of any great Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole is the meatloaf itself. A well-made meatloaf should be moist, flavorful, and hold together perfectly when sliced. For this recipe, we use a classic combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, and eggs to create a tender and juicy base. The key to achieving the perfect texture is to avoid overmixing the ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough meatloaf, so gently combine the ingredients until just incorporated.

The addition of finely chopped yellow onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the meatloaf. If you’re not a fan of onions, you can substitute them with grated carrots or zucchini for a similar texture and added nutrition. Seasoned dry breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf together, while whole milk keeps it moist and tender. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Once the meatloaf mixture is prepared, press it evenly into a 9×9-inch baking dish. Baking the meatloaf uncovered for 15 minutes allows it to cook slightly and release any excess fat. Draining the fat ensures that your casserole isn’t greasy and allows the flavors of the other ingredients to shine. This step is crucial for achieving a balanced and delicious final dish.

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 Creamy Loaded Mashed Potatoes – The Star of the Show

No Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole would be complete without the creamy, indulgent mashed potato topping. The secret to perfect mashed potatoes lies in the choice of potatoes and the technique used to prepare them. For this recipe, we recommend using Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. These varieties have a high starch content, which results in a fluffy and creamy texture when mashed.

Start by peeling and cutting the potatoes into 1-inch chunks. This ensures that they cook evenly and quickly. Boil the potatoes in just enough water to cover them until they are fork-tender, which usually takes about 15 minutes. Overcooking the potatoes can make them waterlogged, so keep an eye on them as they boil.

Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them thoroughly and return them to the pot. Add unsalted butter, whole milk, salt, and pepper, then mash until smooth and creamy. For extra richness, you can substitute the milk with heavy cream or sour cream. If you prefer a smoother texture, use a hand mixer or potato ricer. The mashed potatoes should be thick enough to hold their shape when spread over the meatloaf but still creamy enough to melt in your mouth.

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 Toppings and Customization Ideas

The final layer of the Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole is where you can get creative. The classic combination of crispy bacon bits and shredded cheddar cheese adds a smoky, savory flavor and a delightful texture contrast to the creamy mashed potatoes. However, there are countless ways to customize this dish to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

For a spicy twist, add a sprinkle of jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mashed potatoes. If you’re a fan of herbs, mix in some chopped chives, parsley, or thyme for a fresh and aromatic flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack, mozzarella, or even blue cheese, for a unique twist.

If you’re looking to add more vegetables, consider mixing in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted garlic into the mashed potatoes. For a lighter version, you can use turkey bacon or reduce the amount of cheese. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own.

Once the casserole is assembled, bake it until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the mashed potatoes are slightly crispy on top. This final step brings all the flavors together and creates a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. Serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

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Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:

• Calories: 498kcal
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 29g
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Cholesterol: 134mg
• Sodium: 1188mg
• Potassium: 351mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Vitamin A: 630IU
• Vitamin C: 1mg
• Calcium: 227mg
• Iron: 2mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be slightly different.

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in the meatloaf mixture.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I Freeze This Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

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Conclusion

This Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. With its savory meatloaf base, creamy mashed potatoes, and crispy bacon and cheese topping, it’s a meal that will satisfy the whole family. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this casserole is sure to impress.