Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole

Few things fill my kitchen with more warmth than a classic meatloaf layered with fluffy mashed potatoes and melty cheese. This loaded potato meatloaf casserole started as a weekday solution when my family could not agree on either mashed potatoes or meatloaf I simply combined both and now it is one of our most requested comfort dinners. Creamy potatoes sit on a savory beef base then get crowed with gooey cheddar and smoky turkey bacon for that extra punch making every bite absolutely craveworthy.

I first whipped this up for a Sunday dinner after a chilly soccer game and there were no leftovers to be found The kids scrape their plates every time and even my picky husband asks when it is on the menu again

Gather Your Ingredients

• Ground beef: for a hearty beefy base use eighty five percent lean for best flavor and texture
• Breadcrumbs: help bind the meatloaf and keep it moist fresh or panko work well
• Egg: acts as a binder for the meat mixture seek out free range eggs for richer flavor
• Milk: softens the breadcrumbs and keeps the loaf tender whole milk is best if possible
• Garlic powder and onion powder: boost savory flavor without chopping
• Salt and pepper: let you season the casserole to taste use kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper for balance
• Mashed potatoes: make things creamy and comforting homemade is best but store bought works in a pinch
• Shredded cheddar cheese: for extra richness sharp cheddar gives the best melt and flavor look for block cheese to shred yourself
• Sour cream: makes the mashed potatoes extra silky full fat is preferred
• Turkey bacon: adds a smoky savory crunch lighter than pork bacon and crisps up beautifully make sure it is well cooked
• Green onions: bring a pop of color and bit of freshness go for bright green stems without wilting

How to Make It

Preheat the Oven:

Begin by heating your oven to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit and lightly greasing a nine by nine inch baking dish with cooking spray or a brush of oil This prevents sticking and gives a golden edge

Mix and Shape the Meatloaf Layer:

In a large mixing bowl combine the ground beef breadcrumbs egg milk garlic powder onion powder and a generous pinch of salt and pepper Use clean hands to blend until just combined then gently press the mixture in an even layer across the bottom of your baking dish Do not pack it too tightly or it may dry out

Bake the Meat Layer:

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for twenty minutes This partial bake allows the meat to hold together and render some juices for richer flavor

Prepare the Mashed Potato Topping:

While the meat is baking stir together the mashed potatoes sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese in a separate bowl Mix until smooth and well blended to ensure creamy results

Drain and Layer:

Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven After letting it cool for a minute use a spoon to drain off any excess fat from the edges This lets the casserole taste rich without being greasy

Spread the Potato Mixture:

Evenly dollop and gently spread the mashed potato and cheese mixture over the meatloaf base Smoothing with a spatula creates an even blanket for the toppings to melt into

Add Cheese and Bacon Toppings:

Sprinkle on the remaining cheddar cheese followed by the crumbled cooked turkey bacon The bacon should be crisp and distributed over the whole top to make every bite flavorful

Final Bake:

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for fifteen to twenty more minutes until the cheese is melted bubbly and the center is piping hot Let it rest for at least ten minutes before serving for clean slices

Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle with chopped green onions right before serving for brightness and a pop of color Serve directly from the pan

I absolutely love the way sharp cheddar cheese melts into every layer turning those ordinary potatoes into something you really look forward to My daughter always tries to sneak an extra sprinkle of bacon on top and we laugh every time we catch her The topping is really what makes it extra special for us

Flavor Boosters

Cream cheese blended with the potatoes makes a decadent holiday version. Use leftover holiday turkey meat for the base in November. Crumbled cooked ham adds a smoky bite in place of turkey bacon.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal Warm buttery peas or roasted carrots make classic veggie sides Try a dollop of ketchup or barbecue sauce on the side for dipping especially if your family is sauce crazy like mine

Creative Twists

Swap ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter meatloaf Try using Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a tangier mashed potato layer If cheddar is not your favorite mozzarella or Monterey jack also melt beautifully

Let the casserole rest a few minutes before slicing to help it hold together for perfect portions. This hearty casserole is pure comfort on busy nights.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ How can I make the mashed potato layer extra creamy?

Blend the mashed potatoes with sour cream and a portion of the shredded cheddar cheese for added richness and smooth texture.

→ Can I substitute turkey bacon with regular bacon?

Yes, you can use regular bacon if desired. Fry until crisp, then crumble over the casserole for added smoky flavor.

→ Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble the casserole in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve. Add a few extra minutes to baking time if chilled.

→ What sides go well with this casserole?

Pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the hearty flavors and textures.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Cool leftovers completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use a different ground meat?

Ground turkey, pork, or a beef-pork blend also work well for the meat layer, offering different flavor profiles.