Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole Recipe  Hearty, Cheesy & Comforting

If you’re searching for a comforting, hearty dinner that the whole family will love, this Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It layers juicy homemade meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions for a deliciously satisfying meal — all baked in one dish!

It’s a flavor-packed twist on traditional meatloaf and mashed potatoes, combining everything you love into one warm, cheesy, comforting bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or feeding a hungry group on the weekend.

Ingredients

 For the Meatloaf Base:

• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup ketchup (for topping)

 For the Mashed Potato Layer:

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and sliced (Yukon Gold or Russet work great)
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup chopped green onions
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

Time Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approx. 600 kcal per serving

How to Make Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole

 Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole or baking dish.

 Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Layer

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Ground beef
• Chopped onion
• Minced garlic
• Breadcrumbs
• Milk
• Egg
• Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper

Mix everything together until just combined — don’t overmix or the meatloaf may become dense. Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish.

Spread the ½ cup ketchup over the top of the meat mixture for that classic meatloaf glaze.

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 minutes.

 Step 3: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the meatloaf is baking:

1. Boil the peeled and sliced potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes.
2. Drain well and return to the pot.
3. Mash the potatoes with:
   • Sour cream
   • Milk
   • Butter
   • Salt & pepper to taste

Mash until creamy and smooth. Adjust the milk or butter if you want a softer texture.

 Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

After the meatloaf has baked for 25 minutes:

1. Carefully spread the mashed potatoes over the top of the partially cooked meatloaf layer.
2. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions evenly over the potatoes.

 Step 5: Final Bake

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until:

• The cheese is melted and bubbly
• The edges are lightly golden

Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps the layers hold together and enhances the flavor.

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🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze individual portions or the entire casserole (without the toppings) for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven or microwave until heated through. Add a splash of milk to the mashed potatoes if needed.

Recipe Tips & Variations

• Add bacon: Crumble cooked bacon over the potato layer before baking for a loaded baked potato twist!
• Use turkey or chicken: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add veggies: Mix in frozen peas, corn, or shredded carrots to the meat layer for extra nutrition.
• Cheese options: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or a cheese blend if you want a twist on the classic cheddar.

Why This Recipe Works

• Combines two comfort food favorites in one.
• Easy to assemble in advance and perfect for meal prepping.
• Great for feeding a crowd or hungry family.
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