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Ingredients for Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole
Meatloaf Base:
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor
Mashed Potato Layer:
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared ahead or made fresh)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk or cream (for extra creaminess)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Toppings:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions or chives for garnish
Equipment Needed
You’ll only need a few basics for this recipe:
- Large mixing bowl
- Potato masher or electric mixer (if making mashed potatoes fresh)
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Foil for covering during baking
- Spatula for layering
Step-by-Step Directions for Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole
- Prepare the Meatloaf Base: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, diced onion, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Mix until well-combined, but don’t overmix to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Layer the Meatloaf: Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, creating a flat layer. Bake the meatloaf base in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it is partially cooked through and no longer pink.
- Prepare the Mashed Potato Layer: While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the mashed potatoes if you haven’t already. If using fresh potatoes, peel, boil, and mash them with the sour cream, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Layer the Mashed Potatoes: Once the meatloaf base is done, remove the dish from the oven. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meatloaf layer, smoothing them with a spatula.
- Add Cheese and Bacon: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the mashed potatoes, then top with the crumbled bacon.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the casserole with foil and return it to the oven. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the foil and bake for an extra 5 minutes if you want a golden crust on top. Once baked, garnish with sliced green onions or chives. Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole
- Make Ahead: Prepare the mashed potatoes and even the meatloaf base ahead of time to save on prep time. Simply assemble when ready to bake.
- Use Instant Potatoes: If you’re short on time, use instant mashed potatoes instead of fresh. Just make sure to season them well!
- Add Some Kick: For a bit of spice, add diced jalapeños to the mashed potato layer or sprinkle a bit of cayenne into the meat mixture.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for added flavor.
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