Name: Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds ground beef; ½ cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg; ¼ cup milk; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared); ½ cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 2 green onions, chopped; Nonstick cooking spray

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.3 from 81 reviews

If you have a soft spot for comfort food that combines hearty, savory flavors with creamy, cheesy goodness, then this Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole Recipe is about to become your new go-to. This dish brilliantly layers a classic meatloaf base with fluffy mashed potatoes and indulgent toppings like crispy bacon and melted cheddar, creating a warm, satisfying meal that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this casserole brings together simple, wholesome ingredients in a way that’s incredibly pleasing and fuss-free.

Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole Recipe lies in its straightforward but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building the right texture and flavor balance — from the rich, tender meat base to the creamy potatoes and the crispy, flavorful bacon topping.

1 ½ pounds ground beef: The hearty foundation providing savory depth and protein.
½ cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatloaf layer for perfect firmness without dryness.
1 egg: Acts as a natural binder, keeping everything together smoothly.
¼ cup milk: Adds moisture and tenderness to the meat mixture.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the flavor with a subtle, aromatic kick.
½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory quality with a mild sweetness.
½ teaspoon salt: Brings out all the flavors beautifully.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Infuses the meat with umami complexity and savory richness.
3 cups mashed potatoes: Creamy and fluffy, they provide a luscious top layer.
½ cup sour cream: Makes the mashed potatoes extra creamy and tangy.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts to golden perfection, adding gooey, cheesy delight.
4 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled): Adds salty crunch and smoky aroma on top.
2 green onions (chopped): Fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color to finish.
Nonstick cooking spray: Ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking in the baking dish.

How to Make Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Meatloaf Base

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing your chosen baking dish lightly with nonstick spray. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with breadcrumbs, egg, milk, garlic and onion powders, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix everything gently until just combined — avoid overworking the meat, as that keeps the texture tender. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the dish to form the meatloaf layer. Pop it into the oven and bake for 25 minutes until it’s just cooked through and starting to set.

Step 2: Layer the Creamy Mashed Potato Mixture

While the meatloaf is baking, mix your mashed potatoes with the sour cream in a separate bowl until smooth and creamy. This blend is what gives the casserole its signature luscious texture and slight tang. Once the meat base has finished baking, carefully spread the mashed potato mixture evenly over it, creating a smooth top layer ready for the finishing touches.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Bacon, Then Bake Again

Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes. Then, add the crumbled bacon for that irresistible crunch and smoky flavor. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes. During this time, the cheese will melt into bubbling golden goodness, and the bacon flavors will meld perfectly with the creamy potato topping.

Step 4: Let It Rest and Garnish

Once out of the oven, let your casserole rest for about 5 minutes — this little pause helps it set up for neat slicing and lets all the flavors settle beautifully. Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top for a fresh, colorful finish that wakes up every bite.

How to Serve Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

The finishing touch of chopped green onions not only adds a lovely vibrant contrast but also gives a mild sharpness that brightens the rich layers below. For extra flair, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can lift the dish and add personality on the plate.

Side Dishes

This casserole stands well on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed green beans, a crisp garden salad, or roasted vegetables that balance the richness of the dish. For a heartier meal, a loaf of crusty bread or garlic rolls also complement the flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual portions in ramekins for a charming, personalized presentation at dinner parties. You can also create layers of alternating mashed potato and meatloaf in a glass baking dish for a dramatic, visible cross-section. For a lighter twist, swap ground beef for ground turkey and top with fresh herbs to brighten the look and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole Recipe covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes for an easy reheat during busy weeknights when you want something comforting without the prep.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole before baking or after it’s cooked. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and store it for up to three months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat portions gently in a microwave or warm them through in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated evenly. Covering the casserole helps keep moisture locked in so the potatoes stay creamy and the cheese remains melty.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey offers a lighter alternative while still delivering great flavor and texture. Just be careful not to overmix the meat for tenderness.

Is it okay to use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, instant mashed potatoes work just fine and can save time. Using sour cream with them will help maintain that creamy texture and add richness.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Definitely! Adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the meat mixture or layering them between the meat and potatoes is a great way to sneak in extra veggies.

What if I want a spicy kick?

Feel free to stir in some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce into the mashed potatoes before layering. It brings a delightful heat that complements the creamy and cheesy elements beautifully.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply swap the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs, and make sure any added ingredients like Worcestershire sauce are labeled gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole Recipe is the kind of dish you’ll want to make over and over again because it’s truly a crowd-pleaser. Its comforting layers and rich flavors offer so much warmth and satisfaction without demanding complicated prep work. Give it a try for your next dinner — you might just discover your new all-time favorite comfort casserole.