Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic

Let’s talk about the dinner that happened when two comfort food legends decided to move in together. This Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is what happens when ‘I can’t decide what to make’ meets ‘why not both?’ in the most delicious way possible.

I stumbled upon this combination during one of those ‘staring into the fridge hoping for inspiration’ moments, and let me tell you – it was like discovering that my two favorite sweaters could merge into one super-sweater of coziness.

It’s got all the stick-to-your-ribs goodness of meatloaf, the creamy decadence of loaded potatoes, and enough cheese to make your cardiologist raise an eyebrow (worth it, though).

Fair warning: this casserole has been known to cause spontaneous family dinner appearances and mysterious leftovers disappearances. Don’t be surprised if your neighbors suddenly develop a keen interest in what’s cooking when the aroma starts wafting over the fence.

It’s the kind of dish that makes people conveniently drop by right around dinner time – you might want to invest in some extra tupperware!

Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole dish

Why You’ll Love Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole

  1. Family-Friendly: A guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike, thanks to its cozy, classic flavors.
  2. Ultra-Cheesy: With a melty layer of cheddar, it satisfies every cheese lover’s cravings.
  3. Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein, potatoes, and bacon, this casserole is as satisfying as it gets.
  4. Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy nights, it comes together in one dish with minimal prep.
  5. Great for Leftovers: Tastes just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prep!

Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meatloaf Layer:

  • 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef: Forms the hearty base of the casserole.
  • ½ cup chopped white onion: Adds a touch of sweetness and texture.
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic: For a savory kick that enhances the beef.
  • 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs: Helps bind the meat and adds extra flavor.
  • 1 ½ tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Brings depth and a hint of umami.
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten: Keeps the meatloaf tender and moist.
  • ½ cup cottage cheese: Adds a subtle creaminess and moisture.
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce: Gives a tangy-sweet flavor that complements the meat.

For the Mashed Potato Layer:

  • 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced: The starchy base for creamy mashed potatoes.
  • ½ cup butter: Adds richness and helps achieve a smooth texture.
  • ½ cup sour cream: Provides a tangy note and makes the potatoes extra creamy.
  • ½ cup warm milk or half-and-half: Helps to achieve a fluffy consistency.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the potatoes’ natural flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a bit of spice to balance the flavors.

For the Topping:

  • 8 slices thick bacon, cooked and crumbled: The crispy, smoky finishing touch.
  • 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded: Melts into a delicious, gooey layer over the potatoes.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot, add the diced potatoes and cover them with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain them well and set aside.

2. Make the Meatloaf Base

While the potatoes cook, prepare the meatloaf layer. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, seasoned bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, lightly beaten egg, cottage cheese, and BBQ sauce. Mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.

3. Assemble the Meatloaf Layer

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the meatloaf mixture evenly in the bottom of the dish, pressing it down slightly to create an even layer. This will be the base of your casserole, bringing in all the savory goodness.

4. Bake the Meatloaf Layer

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through. While it bakes, prepare the mashed potatoes.

5. Mash the Potatoes

In a large mixing bowl, mash the cooked potatoes. Add the butter, sour cream, and warm milk or half-and-half, mashing until smooth and creamy. Season with the kosher salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste. If you prefer extra-smooth mashed potatoes, use a hand mixer to whip them until fluffy.

6. Assemble the Casserole

Once the meatloaf layer is fully cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meatloaf layer, smoothing them out with a spatula. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes, followed by the crumbled bacon.

7. Final Bake

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling. If you’d like a golden, slightly crispy top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end.

8. Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to set. Scoop out generous portions and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures!

Tips for Success:

  • Make it ahead: You can prepare both the meatloaf layer and mashed potatoes ahead of time. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.
  • Get creative with cheese: While cheddar works beautifully, try mixing it with mozzarella for a gooier texture or adding Parmesan for extra flavor.
  • Use leftover mashed potatoes: This casserole is a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. Just reheat and layer them over the meatloaf.
  • Add herbs: Fresh parsley, thyme, or chives make an excellent garnish and add a pop of color and flavor.

Why This Recipe Works

This casserole combines everything we love about a classic meatloaf and loaded mashed potatoes, making it an instant family favorite. The savory beef layer is perfectly balanced by creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheese, and a crispy bacon topping. It’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to make a comforting, filling meal with ingredients they already have on hand.

Final Thoughts

Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is the epitome of comfort food done right. With its rich layers of meat, creamy potatoes, and cheesy, bacon-topped goodness, it’s bound to be a hit.

Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for hearty, home-cooked flavor, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds!

Give it a try, and watch as this recipe becomes a staple in your household.

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9 thoughts on “Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic”

  1. this looks way too complicated. who even has time to make a meatloaf and then turn it into a casserole? not for me, sorry.

    Reply
  2. Hmm, I dunno. Seems like one of those Pinterest recipes that looks good but tastes meh. Has anyone actually tried this and liked it?

    Reply
  3. if i make this, does it count as meal prep for the week or am i just eating my feelings in casserole form asking for a friend haha

    Reply
  4. Interesting combination, loaded potato and meatloaf in a casserole. Sounds like comfort food to the max. Might give it a try sometime.

    Reply

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