This Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish with rich layers that balance creamy mashed potatoes and flavorful meatloaf. The golden melted cheddar cheese topped with crispy bacon and fresh green onions adds texture and vibrant color, making this dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this casserole brings together classic ingredients in a hearty, satisfying bake. It’s a crowd-pleaser that delivers warmth and fullness with every bite — a true homestyle meal everyone will love.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 ½ pounds ground beef
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1 cup breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup ketchup
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1 egg
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup sour cream
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4 slices cooked bacon, chopped
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3 green onions, sliced
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1/4 cup milk
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2 tablespoons butter
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, ketchup, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined. Set aside.
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Boil diced potatoes in salted water until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain well.
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In a medium bowl, mash potatoes with butter, milk, and sour cream until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Spread half of the mashed potatoes evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Layer the meatloaf mixture evenly over the mashed potatoes.
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Spread the remaining mashed potatoes over the meatloaf layer.
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Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, followed by chopped bacon and sliced green onions.
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Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
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Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: Approximately 550 kcal per serving | Servings: 6
Why This Recipe Works So Well
One of the biggest draws of this casserole is its incredible balance of flavors and textures. The ground beef in the meatloaf is seasoned simply but effectively with garlic and onion powders, salt, and pepper, enhanced by the moisture and flavor that breadcrumbs and ketchup provide. This makes the meatloaf layer juicy and flavorful without being dry or dense.
The mashed potato layer is luxuriously creamy thanks to the addition of butter, milk, and sour cream, which gives it a smooth texture and a rich tang that perfectly complements the savory meatloaf below. The cheese topping adds a gooey, melty dimension, while the bacon bits contribute crunch and a smoky, salty punch. Finally, fresh green onions sprinkled on top add brightness and a mild oniony zest to balance the richness. Together, these layers create a dynamic dish that appeals to a wide range of taste buds.
Comfort Food at Its Finest
This casserole is a classic example of comfort food done right. It offers familiarity—meatloaf and mashed potatoes are dishes many grew up loving—but it also takes things a step further by combining them in a layered, baked format that is both visually appealing and practical for serving multiple people. The loaded potato element is reminiscent of a loaded baked potato, which is always a crowd-pleaser.
Comfort foods often evoke a sense of nostalgia, and this recipe is no exception. It’s the kind of meal that makes you think of cozy family dinners, chilly evenings by the fire, and sharing food with loved ones. It delivers warmth not just physically but emotionally, making it perfect for times when you want to nourish both body and soul.
Versatility and Customization
One of the greatest strengths of the Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is its versatility. You can easily adapt this dish to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For example, swapping the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken will lighten the dish without sacrificing the hearty texture. Vegetarians could replace the meatloaf layer with a lentil or vegetable-based loaf, while still layering with the rich mashed potatoes and toppings.
You can also customize the toppings to your liking. If you’re not a fan of bacon, try adding sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for a different kind of savory crunch. Cheese lovers can experiment with sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, or pepper jack to add unique flavors. For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce or mix some diced jalapeños into the mashed potatoes.
This recipe is highly forgiving, which makes it a great candidate for using up leftovers or pantry staples. If you have some cooked vegetables on hand, folding them into the mashed potatoes or sprinkling on top adds both nutrition and variety.
Nutritional Considerations
While this casserole is undeniably indulgent, it can be made more balanced with a few thoughtful tweaks. The original recipe is fairly rich due to the butter, sour cream, cheese, and bacon, so those watching their fat intake could reduce or substitute these ingredients. For example, using low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt instead of sour cream will lower calories while keeping creaminess.
Adding a side of steamed or roasted vegetables will round out the meal with fiber and vitamins, making it a more balanced plate. Consider serving this casserole with a fresh green salad or a side of sautéed greens to introduce some freshness and lightness to the meal.
Cooking and Serving Tips
To get the best results, it’s important to layer the casserole as directed so each component stays distinct but melds beautifully in the oven. Using freshly cooked and properly mashed potatoes ensures the creamy texture holds up well after baking. Don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture, as it can become tough when baked.
After baking, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before cutting and serving. This resting time helps the layers settle and makes it easier to portion out neat servings.
This dish is also great for leftovers, as the flavors deepen overnight. Simply reheat gently in the oven or microwave, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready to go.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Families and Gatherings
Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that feeds a family without much fuss. It’s a one-dish meal that covers protein, starch, and dairy in one go, which makes it ideal for busy weeknights or potlucks. Kids often love the cheesy, bacon-topped potatoes and familiar meatloaf flavor, while adults appreciate the homestyle goodness and heartiness.
Because it’s baked in a large casserole dish, it’s easy to scale up for bigger gatherings, and leftovers store well in the fridge or freezer. This means less time in the kitchen on busy days and more time enjoying your company.
Conclusion
The Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is a true comfort food classic reinvented with layers of creamy mashed potatoes, juicy seasoned meatloaf, melty cheese, and crispy bacon. Its combination of textures and flavors makes it irresistible, while its versatility allows you to tailor it to your tastes and dietary preferences. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in, this casserole delivers warmth, satisfaction, and hearty nourishment with every bite.
If you’re looking for a recipe that combines the best of traditional favorites into one delicious, easy-to-make dish, this casserole is a perfect choice. It’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings people together around the table.