If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that delivers both nostalgia and wow-factor at the dinner table, look no further than this Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole. It’s a dreamy marriage of juicy meatloaf and luscious, cheesy mashed potatoes, all crowned with crispy bacon and a sprinkle of chives. Every bite is hearty, flavorful, and sure to win over everyone—from picky eaters to hungry guests. Whether you’re feeding a family on a busy weeknight or looking for a crowd-pleaser for your next get-together, this casserole brings the best of two beloved classics together in one irresistible dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s the beauty of this casserole: the ingredients are simple, familiar, and each one plays a starring role in the final flavor and texture. Nothing fancy here—just wholesome basics that transform into something truly special when layered together.
- Ground beef: The hearty, savory foundation for the meatloaf layer—choose 80/20 for the juiciest results.
- Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatloaf and keeps it from crumbling when serving.
- Milk: Adds moisture and tenderness to the meatloaf mixture.
- Egg: Acts as a binder, holding everything together perfectly.
- Onion (finely diced): Brings sweetness and depth of flavor to the meatloaf.
- Garlic (minced): Adds a subtle, aromatic kick.
- Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the umami flavor for that classic meatloaf taste.
- Salt & black pepper: Seasoning essentials that make all the flavors pop.
- Mashed potatoes (prepared): The creamy, dreamy topping—use homemade or store-bought for convenience.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, golden perfection over the potatoes.
- Bacon (cooked & crumbled): Salty, smoky crunch that makes this casserole truly “loaded.”
- Fresh chives or green onions: A fresh, colorful finish that adds a mild oniony zing.
How to Make Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Base
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, diced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently—just until combined—so the meatloaf stays tender and juicy. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, smoothing it out to form a solid, even layer. This is the savory backbone of your Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole.
Step 2: Bake the Meatloaf Layer
Place the baking dish in the oven, uncovered, and bake for 25 minutes. This initial bake sets the meatloaf and allows the flavors to meld. After baking, carefully drain off any excess fat that has collected around the edges—this keeps the casserole from becoming greasy and ensures a perfect slice every time.
Step 3: Add the Potato Layer
Now comes the magic! Spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf, creating a luscious, fluffy layer that’s ready to soak up all the savory goodness underneath. Don’t worry about fancy techniques—a simple, even spread does the trick. Homemade mashed potatoes are always a treat, but if you’re in a hurry, store-bought or leftover mashed potatoes work beautifully.
Step 4: Top and Bake Again
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the potato layer, then scatter the crumbled bacon right on top. Slide the casserole back into the oven for another 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. This step is when your kitchen starts to smell absolutely irresistible.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, finish your Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole with a shower of fresh chives or green onions. This adds color, freshness, and a gentle bite that balances the richness of the casserole. Let it cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve up the ultimate comfort food experience.
How to Serve Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole
Garnishes
For that signature “loaded” look and flavor, don’t skip the final touch of fresh chives or green onions. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of extra cheese on top. These little details bring out the best in every bite and make your casserole look as inviting as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a meal in itself, but a crisp green salad or a plate of steamed green beans makes a refreshing partner. For a classic comfort spread, serve with buttered corn or roasted carrots. The key is to keep sides simple and fresh, letting your Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole take center stage.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting or want to impress, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a personalized touch. Or, use a large serving spoon to create rustic, heaping portions family-style. You can even offer a toppings bar with extra bacon, cheese, and chives so everyone can customize their own slice—it’s a fun way to get everyone involved and make dinner feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole keeps brilliantly in the fridge. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers. It’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.
Freezing
This casserole is wonderfully freezer-friendly. Let it cool completely, then wrap the dish well in plastic wrap and foil, or portion into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through—about 20–25 minutes if reheating a full dish. For single servings, the microwave works great; just heat in 60-second bursts until hot. Add a fresh sprinkle of chives after reheating to revive that just-baked flavor and look.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic, lighter alternative. Just be sure to use a blend with some fat content to keep the meatloaf layer juicy and flavorful. You might want to add an extra splash of milk if your turkey is extra lean.
What’s the best way to make mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes are ideal here. Use Yukon gold or russet potatoes, mash with butter and a splash of milk or cream, and season with salt and pepper. You can also use leftovers or even store-bought mashed potatoes in a pinch—no shame in shortcuts!
Can I assemble Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can fully assemble the casserole (before the final cheese and bacon topping) and refrigerate it up to 24 hours ahead. When ready to bake, add the cheese and bacon and increase the baking time by about 10 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf layer?
Definitely! Finely chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots can be mixed into the meatloaf base for added nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to dice them small so they blend in seamlessly and cook through.
What’s the best way to get a crispy cheese and bacon topping?
For extra crispiness, pop the casserole under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes after baking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning, and you’ll get a bubbly, golden topping that’s irresistible.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a meal that’s both heartwarming and show-stopping, you absolutely have to try this Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole. It’s a delicious twist on classic favorites that brings people together around the table with big smiles and happy bellies. Go ahead—treat yourself and your loved ones to a comforting slice of this casserole magic tonight!
Print
Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting American dish combining seasoned ground beef meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese. Baked to perfection, it’s a hearty, satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or cozy occasions.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole evenly.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, finely diced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough meatloaf.
- Form Meatloaf Layer: Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, creating a uniform layer.
- Bake Meatloaf: Bake uncovered for 25 minutes. After baking, carefully drain off any excess fat from the dish to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
- Add Toppings: Spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top of the mashed potatoes.
- Final Bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle fresh chopped chives or green onions before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Use leftover mashed potatoes or store-bought mashed potatoes for a quick shortcut.
- Swap cheddar cheese with mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavor variations.
- Make sure not to overmix the meatloaf mixture to keep it tender.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 670 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
