Description
This Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole is a hearty, comforting American dish combining a savory meatloaf base with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions. Perfect for a family dinner, it blends classic flavors into one easy-to-make casserole baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Layer
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Potato Topping
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared and seasoned)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch or similar size baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix meatloaf ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid compacting the meat too much.
- Form meatloaf base: Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, forming a uniform layer.
- First bake: Bake the meatloaf layer for 20 to 25 minutes until mostly cooked through and juices run clear. Carefully drain any excess grease if necessary.
- Add potato topping: Spread the prepared and seasoned mashed potatoes evenly over the baked meatloaf layer.
- Top with cheese and bacon: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and chopped cooked bacon evenly over the mashed potatoes.
- Final bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven, top with sliced green onions and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can use leftover mashed potatoes or prepare fresh ones while the meatloaf bakes.
- Ground turkey or a beef-pork blend are great alternatives to ground beef.
- Optionally add sautéed mushrooms or other vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.
- To make gluten-free, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
