Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole

In the realm of comfort food, few dishes can compare to the hearty embrace of a Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole. This recipe melds the savory richness of meatloaf with the creamy, indulgent texture of loaded mashed potatoes, creating a one-dish wonder that is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and cozy winter nights. If you’re looking for a satisfying meal that combines all the flavors of a home-cooked feast, you’ve found the perfect recipe. Here’s how to bring this ultimate comfort dish to your table.

Ingredients

To make this Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

1 1/2 pounds of ground beef

1/2 pound of ground pork (optional, for extra flavor)
1 cup of breadcrumbs
1 onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced
2 eggs
1/2 cup of milk

1/4 cup of ketchup
2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon of salt

1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon of dried parsley

For the Loaded Potatoes:

3 pounds of potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup of sour cream
1/4 cup of milk

2 tablespoons of butter
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled

3 green onions, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparing the Meatloaf:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and pork with the breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley.
Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the center of a large baking dish.

Making the Loaded Potatoes:

While the meatloaf is in the oven, boil the potatoes in salted water until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add sour cream, milk, and butter, mashing the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy.
Stir in half of the cheddar cheese, along with the crumbled bacon and green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combining the Casserole:

After the meatloaf has cooked for about 30 minutes, remove it from the oven.
Spoon the mashed potato mixture over the meatloaf, spreading it evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of the mashed potatoes.

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.

Serving Suggestions

To serve, let the Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole stand for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Slice the meatloaf and scoop out portions along with the loaded mashed potatoes. Pair this dish with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to round out a truly comforting meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a hearty experience that brings together the best of two beloved dishes. The creamy, cheesy potatoes complement the meaty, flavorful loaf, making every bite a delight. It’s a perfect dish for those who love the combination of meat and potatoes but want something a little more special than the usual fare.

So, next time you’re in the mood for a filling dish that will satisfy your comfort food cravings, remember this Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole. It’s guaranteed to be a hit at any table!

Serving and Storage Tips for Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole

Serving Tips:

Let it Rest: After removing your Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole from the oven, let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This rest period allows the juices in the meatloaf to redistribute, ensuring that each slice is moist and flavorful.
Garnish for Freshness: To add a touch of freshness and color, garnish the casserole with additional sliced green onions or a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving. This not only enhances the flavors but also makes the dish more visually appealing.

Pairing: Serve the casserole with a light side to balance the richness of the dish. A crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or a tangy coleslaw can provide a refreshing contrast.
Wine Pairing: A robust red wine, such as a Merlot or a Shiraz, pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the meatloaf and creamy potatoes. If you prefer white wine, a full-bodied Chardonnay can also complement the dish well.

Storage Tips:

Cool Before Refrigerating: Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before covering and storing it in the refrigerator. This prevents condensation from forming inside the container, which can make the topping soggy.

Refrigerate Properly: Store the casserole in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Properly stored, the casserole will last for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing for Longer Storage: If you want to keep the casserole for longer, it freezes well. Freeze it in covered airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. For best quality, use the frozen casserole within 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, cover the casserole with aluminum foil and warm it in a 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. If you’re reheating individual servings, a microwave will work, but use a lower power setting to avoid drying out the meat.