When you’re searching for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to please, the Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole is your go-to recipe. This comforting dish combines two beloved classics rich, flavorful meatloaf and creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes into one irresistible bake. Perfect for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, or family dinners, the Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole offers both convenience and comfort in every bite.
Whether you’re making it fresh or prepping it ahead, this Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole is designed to be a reliable crowd-pleaser. In this detailed guide, you’ll learn how to prepare it step by step, explore flavor-packed variations, and discover expert tips to make the most of every layer. Plus, we’ll highlight related recipes from our collection like the Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake or the Banquet Salisbury Steak to expand your comfort food lineup with equally satisfying options
Table of Contents
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Layer
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Loaded Potato Layer
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ¼ cup butter
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain, then mash with butter, sour cream, and milk until smooth. Stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese, season to taste, and set aside. For more potato inspiration, check out our Cajun Potato Soup.
Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Base
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onions, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. For an extra layer of flavor, consider blending in something smoky like a dash of sauce from our Chipotle Honey Chicken.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat mixture. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top.
Step 4: Bake
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions, if desired.
Why This Casserole Works
- Combines two favorite dishes in one simple bake
- Kid-friendly and family-approved
- Freezer-friendly and ideal for meal prepping
- Easy to customize with ingredients you already have
- Just as comforting as other classic recipes like Porcupine Meatballs or Cowboy Butter
Tips for Success
- Swap russet potatoes for Yukon Gold for extra creaminess
- Add cream cheese to the mashed potatoes for added richness
- Substitute cheddar with Gouda cheese for a smoky twist
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
- Add crispy fried onions on top for texture and crunch
Variations to Try
Tex-Mex Style
Season the meat with taco seasoning and top with salsa, a Mexican cheese blend, and chopped cilantro.
BBQ Twist
Mix BBQ sauce into the meat layer and drizzle some on top before baking. Swap cheddar for smoked Gouda.
Veggie Boost
Add finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or spinach to the meat mixture for extra nutrients.
Dairy-Free Option
Use plant-based butter, almond milk, and dairy-free cheese alternatives for a lactose-free version.
Frequently Asked Questions About Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole
Can I make Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. One of the best things about this Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole is how convenient it is for advance preparation. You can fully assemble the casserole—both the savory meatloaf layer and the creamy mashed potato topping—up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it as directed. This make-ahead option is perfect for busy weekdays or when you’re entertaining and want to reduce last-minute cooking.
Can I freeze leftovers of Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole?
Yes, this dish freezes exceptionally well, making it an excellent candidate for meal prepping. After baking and allowing the Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole to cool, you can portion it into individual airtight containers or freeze the entire dish covered in foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave single portions for a quicker meal.
What side dishes go well with Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole?
Because Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole is such a rich and filling dish, it pairs best with lighter, fresher sides. A crisp salad like a Salmon Caesar Salad provides a refreshing balance to the hearty flavors, while simple steamed vegetables—such as broccoli or green beans—add both color and nutrition. You could also consider a lighter dish like Sesame Chicken with Broccoli (minus the chicken if you want a vegetarian side) for added texture and taste.
Can I make a gluten-free version of Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole?
Yes, it’s easy to make a gluten-free version of Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole. Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with certified gluten-free breadcrumbs in the meatloaf mixture. It’s also important to check that all packaged ingredients—such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and Worcestershire sauce—are labeled gluten-free, as some may contain hidden gluten. With these simple adjustments, the casserole remains just as comforting and delicious while being safe for gluten-sensitive eaters..
More Recipes You Might Like
If you love warm, baked dishes like this one, you may also enjoy:
Or check out our entire Comfort Food Collection for more dinner inspiration.
Conclusion
This Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table. It’s rich, filling, and packed with flavor, yet simple enough to prepare on a weeknight. From the creamy mashed potatoes to the savory meat base and crispy bacon topping, every bite delivers comfort and satisfaction. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a regular on your dinner menu.
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