Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole (Print-Friendly Version)

Savory beef and mashed potatoes layered with cheese and bacon for a hearty, comforting casserole.

# Ingredients You’ll Need:

→ Meatloaf Base

01 - 1 pound ground beef
02 - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
03 - 1 large egg
04 - 1/4 cup whole milk
05 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
07 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Potato Topping

08 - 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared from approximately 4 large Russet potatoes)
09 - 1/2 cup sour cream
10 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided

→ Crispy Garnish

11 - 4 slices turkey bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled
12 - 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9x9-inch glass or ceramic baking dish.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, gently combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until evenly mixed.
03 - Press the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish to form a base layer. Bake in the center of the oven for 20 minutes.
04 - Meanwhile, fold sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the warm mashed potatoes until creamy and smooth.
05 - Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and drain any excess fat from the meat layer.
06 - Spread the cheesy mashed potato mixture over the baked meatloaf, smoothing evenly to cover.
07 - Evenly sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the mashed potato layer, then distribute crumbled turkey bacon on top.
08 - Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
09 - Allow casserole to rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with chopped green onions if desired and serve warm.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
02 - For best texture, mash potatoes until completely smooth before layering.