Print

Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic

Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole
Print Recipe

This Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish that combines the heartiness of meatloaf with the creamy, cheesy goodness of loaded mashed potatoes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The crispy bacon and melted cheese on top make it irresistible for both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies if you want to add finely chopped carrots or celery to the meatloaf mixture!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatloaf:

  • 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (85/15)
  • 1/4 yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2/3 cup seasoned dry breadcrumbs
  • 1/3 cup whole milk
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper

For the Mashed Potatoes:

  • 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cut into 1” chunks
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper

Toppings:

  • 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon bits
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare Meatloaf: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, and pepper. Press the mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish.
  3. Bake Meatloaf: Bake uncovered for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and drain any excess fat.
  4. Cook Potatoes: While the meatloaf is baking, place the potato chunks in a pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over high heat and cook for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Drain the water.
  5. Mash Potatoes: Add the butter, milk, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Mash until creamy and smooth.
  6. Assemble Casserole: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the baked meatloaf. Sprinkle the shredded cheese and bacon bits on top.
  7. Bake Again: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges of the mashed potatoes are slightly crispy.
  8. Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

  1. Meatloaf Texture: For a tender meatloaf, avoid overmixing the beef mixture. Gently combine the ingredients until just incorporated.
  2. Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets for the creamiest mashed potatoes.
  3. Bacon: For extra flavor, cook your own bacon instead of using pre-packaged bacon bits.
  4. Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a twist.
  5. Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate. Bake it when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipes.gernarb.com/loaded-mashed-potato-meatloaf-casserole-a-comfort-food-classic/