The Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is an ultimate comfort dish that brings together two beloved favorites in one pan: savory meatloaf topped with creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes and turkey bacon bits. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, as it provides a satisfying and flavorful meal with minimal cleanup. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delicious casserole, along with tips, FAQs, and some variations you might want to try.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Layer:
- Ground beef – 1 lb (choose lean or regular, depending on preference)
- Bread crumbs – 1/2 cup (plain or seasoned, depending on taste)
- Onion – 1/4 cup, finely chopped
- Milk – 1/4 cup (helps soften the breadcrumbs and keep the meatloaf moist)
- Egg – 1 large (works as a binder to hold the meatloaf together)
- Worcestershire sauce – 1 tbsp (adds depth to the flavor)
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Ketchup – 1/2 cup (for spreading on top of the meatloaf)
For the Potato Layer:
- Russet potatoes – 4 large, peeled and cubed (perfect for a fluffy, creamy texture)
- Sour cream – 1/2 cup (adds a tangy creaminess)
- Milk – 1/4 cup (adjust if a creamier texture is preferred)
- Butter – 2 tbsp (adds richness to the potatoes)
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Cheddar cheese – 1 cup, shredded (melty, cheesy goodness)
- Turkey bacon – 4 slices, cooked and crumbled (adds a crispy texture and smoky flavor)
- Green onions – 2, sliced (for garnish and added flavor)
Directions and Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Layer
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking for the meatloaf.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, finely chopped onion, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined, ensuring that all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Form the Meatloaf: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then press the meat mixture into the dish. Flatten it out evenly, so it cooks uniformly.
- Add Ketchup Topping: Spread the ketchup over the top of the meatloaf layer to create a tangy, caramelized crust as it bakes.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the meatloaf layer is fully cooked. While it bakes, move on to preparing the potato layer.
Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Potato Layer
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed potatoes into a pot of salted water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, cooking the potatoes until they are tender, which usually takes about 15 minutes.
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add sour cream, milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes until they reach a smooth and creamy consistency. Adjust seasoning as desired.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Layer the Potatoes: Once the meatloaf layer is cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven. Spread the mashed potatoes over the meatloaf evenly.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes. Add crumbled turkey bacon for extra texture and flavor.
Step 4: Bake Again
- Final Bake: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This will also heat everything through and ensure the toppings are nicely blended.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and Enjoy: Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve hot for a comforting meal everyone will enjoy.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack for added flavor variations. Just ensure that the cheese melts well and complements the meatloaf.
Q2: Can I make this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf and mashed potato layers ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When ready, add cheese and bacon, then bake until heated through.
Q3: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, replace bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Additionally, check that the Worcestershire sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free.
Q4: Can I use other meats besides ground beef?
Certainly. Ground turkey, chicken, or a beef-pork mixture can work well in this recipe. Adjust seasoning to taste, as these meats may have slightly different flavor profiles.
Q5: Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake until heated through.
Conclusion
The Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is a family-friendly meal that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table with its layered flavors and textures. Combining savory meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and a sprinkle of crispy turkey bacon, this casserole is a surefire hit. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is bound to please everyone. Give it a try and enjoy the warmth and flavors this comforting casserole has to offer!