Well, hello there, everyone, and welcome to my kitchen! Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite: Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole. Imagine the hearty goodness of a meatloaf meeting the creamy, cheesy bliss of shepherd’s pie—this dish is the ultimate comfort food mashup. With a flavorful meatloaf base topped with bacon-studded, cheesy mashed potatoes, it’s a match made in heaven. Perfect for cozy dinners or potlucks, this casserole is as delicious as it is easy to make. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Satisfying: A filling combination of meatloaf and mashed potatoes that warms the soul.
- Flavor Explosion: Cheesy, bacon-topped potatoes paired with seasoned meatloaf, need I say more?
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will gobble this up!
- Simple to Make: Straightforward steps for a dish that looks and tastes impressive.
- Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for family meals or gatherings with friends.
Tools Needed
To whip up this Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole, you’ll need:
- Baking Dish: A 7×11 or 8×8 dish to layer the meatloaf and potatoes.
- Potato Masher: For smooth, creamy mashed potatoes.
- Skillet: To fry the bacon to crispy perfection.
- Large Pot: For boiling the potatoes.
- Mixing Bowl: To combine the meatloaf ingredients.
- Spatula or Spoon: For spreading the potatoes over the meatloaf.
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Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- ⅔ cup panko breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1 egg
- ⅓ cup milk
- ¼ cup chopped onion
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 2 pounds peeled and diced potatoes (about 5 cups)
- 6 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup milk (warmed)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix (optional)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (a sharp and mild blend works great)
- 4 slices bacon, fried and crumbled
Optional Garnish
- Chopped green onions
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Meatloaf: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and ranch seasoning (if using). Mix until well blended. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 7×11 or 8×8 baking dish.
- Cook the Bacon: In a skillet, fry the bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels, then crumble and set aside.
- Boil the Potatoes: In a large pot, boil the diced potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes). Drain well.
- Mash the Potatoes: Return the potatoes to the pot. Add butter, warmed milk, salt, pepper, and ranch seasoning (if using). Mash until smooth. Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf layer. Sprinkle the remaining 1 ½ cups of cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle with chopped green onions for a pop of color. Let it cool slightly, then slice and serve.
Expert Tips for Perfect Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole
- Check Meatloaf Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Extra Cheese, Please: Add more cheddar to the potato topping for an even gooier finish.
- Warm the Milk: This keeps the mashed potatoes creamy and prevents them from cooling down too fast.
- Crisp That Bacon: Fry it until golden for the best texture and flavor.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole earlier in the day and refrigerate until ready to bake—just add a few extra minutes to the cook time.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour 5 minutes
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overpacking the Meatloaf: Don’t press it too hard into the dish—keep it light for a tender texture.
- Lumpy Potatoes: Mash thoroughly to avoid chunks in your topping.
- Soggy Bacon: Drain it well after frying to keep it crispy.
- Overcooking: Check the meatloaf early to prevent it from drying out.
- Skipping Seasoning: Taste the potatoes and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Variations
- Cheesy Swap: Try mozzarella or Colby Jack instead of cheddar.
- Veggie Boost: Mix diced carrots or peas into the meatloaf for added nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture.
- Turkey Twist: Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Loaded Extras: Top with sour cream or chives for a baked potato vibe.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, covered, to keep it moist. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
FAQs
- Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead?
Yes, prepare them according to the package, then stir in cheese and bacon as directed. - How do I make this gluten-free?
Swap panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. - Can I freeze Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole?
Yes, assemble it, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. - What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?
Skip it or use a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs instead. - Can I make this vegetarian?
Replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute and use veggie bacon.
Conclusion
This Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, think cheesy, bacon-topped mashed potatoes hugging a flavorful meatloaf base. It’s hearty, crowd-pleasing, and oh-so-delicious, with that optional ranch seasoning taking it over the top. Pair it with a simple side salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal. I hope you give this recipe a try—it’s a game-changer! Happy cooking, and see you soon with more tasty ideas!
