If you are looking for a comforting and hearty meal that combines the best of two classic dishes, this Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It perfectly layers savory ground beef meatloaf flavors with creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes, then tops it all with crispy bacon and vibrant green onions. Every bite bursts with familiar, homey goodness, making this casserole an instant favorite for family dinners or casual gatherings. It’s a dish that satisfies those cravings for both comfort food and a crowd-pleaser without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for the Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole Recipe is simpler than you might think. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this casserole truly memorable.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base of the meatloaf, providing rich, savory flavor and satisfying protein.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Adds structure and helps keep the meatloaf tender and moist.
- 1/4 cup milk: Moistens the breadcrumbs and enhances the creaminess in the meat mixture.
- 1/4 cup ketchup: Brings a tangy sweetness that balances the savory beef perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth with its bold umami and slight tang.
- 1 egg: Acts as a binder to keep the meatloaf ingredients together beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Gives a mild herbaceous note that brightens the meatloaf.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts flavor with warm, savory garlic hints.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance every component.
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed: Perfect for making creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes to layer on top.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and smooth texture to the mashed potatoes.
- 1/2 cup milk (for the mashed potatoes): Helps create silky, smooth potatoes.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Provides sharp, melty cheesiness, with some mixed into the layers and some sprinkled on top.
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled: Delicious crispy bacon adds a smoky, savory crunch.
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, oniony punch and a pop of color when serving.
How to Make Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
Start by combining the ground beef, breadcrumbs soaked in milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, egg, dried parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated. This mixture gives you a perfectly balanced meatloaf base that is moist, flavorful, and tender once cooked.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
While the meatloaf mixture is resting, boil the peeled and cubed russet potatoes in salted water until they are fork-tender, about 15 minutes. This step is key to creating creamy mashed potatoes that form the luscious top layer of your casserole.
Step 3: Mash the Potatoes
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper, then mash until smooth and creamy. For extra flavor, fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese while the potatoes are still warm. Set aside the rest of the cheese for topping later.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the meatloaf mixture evenly in the bottom of a greased baking dish. Spoon and layer the cheesy mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top to add that irresistible melt and crunch.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole for about 35-40 minutes, until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown, and the meatloaf layer is cooked through. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is simply heavenly!
How to Serve Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh green onions sprinkled over the top add a burst of color and a gentle oniony bite that perfectly cuts through the casserole’s richness. For an extra touch, you can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of paprika for some gentle warmth and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables can balance the meal wonderfully. Roasted Brussels sprouts or a simple garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette lift the flavors and keep the plate vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family gathering, serve the casserole straight from the baking dish so everyone can dig in spotlighting the layers. Alternatively, use individual ramekins to create personal portions that look charming and allow everyone to enjoy perfectly baked servings with crispy tops and gooey insides.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After the casserole has cooled, cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a great option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. Wrap the dish securely in multiple layers of plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will stay delicious for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. Cover with foil if it starts to brown too much on top. Microwaving works well for individual portions but won’t preserve the crispy cheese topping as nicely.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and can make the casserole a bit leaner. Just be sure to add some extra seasoning to keep it flavorful since turkey is milder than beef.
What type of potatoes are best for the mashed potato layer?
Russet potatoes are ideal because they are starchy and yield fluffy, smooth mashed potatoes that bind nicely on the casserole’s top layer.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Double-check that your Worcestershire sauce and other seasonings are gluten-free, too.
Is it possible to prepare this dish vegetarian?
You can swap ground beef for a vegetarian substitute like lentils or textured vegetable protein and use vegetarian bacon alternatives. The dish will still be comforting and delicious with adjusted seasoning.
How spicy is the Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole Recipe?
This recipe is mild and family-friendly, but you can easily add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the meatloaf mixture if you want some gentle heat.
Final Thoughts
This Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Its rich layers combine savory meat, creamy potatoes, gooey cheese, and smoky bacon into a soul-satisfying meal everyone will adore. I can’t recommend it enough for your next weeknight dinner or special occasion. Give it a try, and I promise it will quickly become a go-to comfort food favorite in your home!
Print
Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole combining savory ground beef meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mashed Potatoes
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup milk
Toppings
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Make Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, egg, dried parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Prepare Potatoes: Place peeled and cubed potatoes into a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
- Mash Potatoes: Return drained potatoes to pot. Add butter and 1/2 cup milk and mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble Casserole: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread the meatloaf mixture evenly on the bottom. Top with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Spread the mashed potatoes over the cheese layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until meat is cooked through, cheese is melted, and edges are golden brown.
- Add Bacon and Garnish: Remove casserole from oven, sprinkle crumbled cooked bacon and chopped green onions on top. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use freshly cooked bacon or store-bought cooked bacon for convenience.
- Adjust cheese amounts if you prefer a cheesier casserole.
- For creamier potatoes, add more milk or butter as needed.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- Ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef for a leaner variant.
