Description
This Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole combines the comforting flavors of classic meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon for a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal that comes together easily in just one hour.
Ingredients
Scale
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 Potato Topping
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, egg, dried parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Cook the Potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
- Mash the Potatoes: Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Add 2 tablespoons butter and 1/2 cup milk, then mash until creamy and smooth. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat mixture.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled cooked bacon over the mashed potatoes.
- Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chili powder to the meat mixture.
- Make sure potatoes are well drained before mashing to avoid watery topping.
- If desired, add a dollop of sour cream to mashed potatoes for extra creaminess.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
