Loaded Potato And Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

If you love hearty, comforting meals that combine savory flavors and creamy textures, this Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is exactly what you need. Combining juicy, flavorful meatloaf with a layer of buttery mashed potatoes, topped with crispy bacon and melted cheddar cheese, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this casserole will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients for the Perfect Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole

Making this casserole is easy, but it starts with the right ingredients. Each layer plays a key role in building up the flavors and textures that make this dish irresistible. Here’s what you’ll need:

A Breakdown of the Meatloaf Layer

• 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef or turkey: This forms the base of the meatloaf. You can use either beef or turkey depending on your preference.
• ½ cup finely chopped white onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and flavor to the meatloaf.
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic: For a punch of garlicky goodness.
• 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs: Helps bind the meatloaf together and adds flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a rich umami taste to the meat.
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten: Helps bind the ingredients.
• ⅓ cup cottage cheese: This adds moisture and tenderness to the meatloaf.
• ½ cup BBQ sauce: Adds sweetness and a slight tang to balance out the meat.

Creating the Creamy Potato Layer

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced: The star of the potato layer. Russet or Yukon gold work best.
• ½ cup unsalted butter: For richness and a creamy texture.
• ½ cup sour cream: Adds a slight tang and makes the mashed potatoes extra creamy.
• ½ cup warm milk or half-and-half: Ensures the potatoes are smooth and easy to spread.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: To season the potatoes.
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: For just the right amount of seasoning.

Toppings That Elevate the Dish

• 6 slices thick bacon, cooked and crumbled: Adds a salty, crispy texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes.
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully over the top of the casserole, adding gooeyness and extra flavor.

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to bring everything together with these simple steps. This casserole comes together easily and bakes to perfection.

Preparing the Meatloaf Layer

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the meatloaf ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, chopped onion, minced garlic, seasoned bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, beaten egg, cottage cheese, and BBQ sauce. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until well combined.
3. Shape and bake: Press the meat mixture into the greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Bake the meatloaf layer for 25 minutes until it’s partially cooked through and firm.

Mastering the Potato Layer

1. Boil the potatoes: While the meatloaf is baking, place the diced potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
2. Mash the potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, sour cream, warm milk, salt, and pepper. Mash everything together until the potatoes are creamy and smooth.

Assembling and Baking Your Casserole

1. Layer the potatoes: After the meatloaf layer has baked for 25 minutes, spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
2. Add toppings: Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.
3. Final bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Essential Kitchen Equipment for the Recipe

To make this Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools:

• Large mixing bowl
• Casserole dish (9×13 inch works best)
• Potato masher or electric mixer
• Large pot for boiling potatoes
• Spatula for spreading mashed potatoes
• Measuring cups and spoons

Tips for the Best Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole

To ensure your casserole turns out perfect every time, here are some useful tips:

Mistakes to Avoid

• Undercooking the potatoes: Make sure the potatoes are fully tender before mashing them. This ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
• Overmixing the meat: Overworking the ground meat can result in a tough meatloaf. Mix just until everything is combined.
• Skipping the bacon: The bacon adds so much flavor and texture—don’t skip it!

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve the Casserole

This dish is filling and hearty, so it pairs well with a light green salad or roasted vegetables. Serve it hot, straight from the oven, ensuring each slice has a bit of every layer.

Creative Presentation Ideas

For a family-style presentation, serve directly from the casserole dish, or if you want to impress your guests, cut the casserole into neat squares and garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together even more as it sits, making for delicious leftovers.

How to Reheat Properly

Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. For larger portions, cover the casserole dish with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQ: Common Questions About Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can assemble the entire casserole ahead of time, up to the point of baking, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the bake time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I Use Other Types of Meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a blend of beef and pork can be used to create different flavor profiles. Just ensure your meat is lean to avoid excess grease.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Casserole

This Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is the perfect marriage of hearty, comforting flavors. With its savory meatloaf base, creamy mashed potatoes, and indulgent toppings of crispy bacon and cheddar cheese, it’s sure to be a family favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, this casserole is a dish you’ll turn to again and again.

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