Comforting Meatloaf Potato Casserole – Warm up your dinner table. With this Comforting Meatloaf Potato Casserole. A delicious blend of savory meatloaf. And creamy mashed potatoes. Topped with melted cheese. And crispy bacon bits. Perfect for family dinners. This casserole combines simple ingredients like ground beef, onions, and instant mashed potatoes. To create a filling meal. That’s both comforting. And satisfying.
The first time I made this casserole. It was a chilly evening. When I wanted something. That could warm us. From the inside out. I remember watching as my husband. And our little one’s eyes lit up. With the first bite. Their smiles. And the request for seconds. Told me all I needed to know. About this recipe’s place in our family. Now, it’s our go-to comfort food. For any night. That needs a little extra warmth.
What makes this Comforting Meatloaf Potato Casserole truly stands out?
This Comforting Meatloaf Potato Casserole stands out. For its quick and easy preparation. Making it ideal. For bustling weeknight dinners. It appeals to the whole family. With its classic, kid-friendly flavors. Ensuring it’s a hit. Among both adults. And children. Additionally, the recipe’s versatility is a bonus. Allowing for easy customization. With various spices. Or additional vegetables. To cater to your family’s preferences. Ensuring every bite. Is both comforting. And personalized.
What You Need To Make This Comforting Meatloaf Potato Casserole Recipe?
Garlic-Flavored Instant Mashed Potatoes: These add a rich garlic flavor quickly and easily. Enhancing the overall taste of the casserole.
Extra Lean Ground Beef: Using lean beef. Makes this dish a healthier option. Without sacrificing heartiness or flavor.
Onion: Diced onion brings a mild sweetness. And richness. That deepens the flavor of the meatloaf.
Brown Sugar: A little brown sugar caramelizes in cooking. Adding a subtle sweetness. That complements the savory beef beautifully.
Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce is key for its deep, savory umami. Tying all the flavors together.
Italian Bread Crumbs: These seasoned crumbs add flavor. And help bind the meatloaf. Keeping it moist and delicious.
Egg: Essential for binding all the meatloaf ingredients together. Ensuring it holds its shape well.
Cheddar Cheese Blend: The cheese melts into a creamy, gooey layer. That makes every bite luxuriously rich.
Real Bacon Bits: Bacon bits introduce a smoky flavor. And a crunchy texture. Adding a final touch of indulgence to the top of the casserole.
Steps To Make Comforting Meatloaf Potato Casserole:
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F. And lightly grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Mashed Potatoes: In a medium saucepan. Bring water and milk to a boil. Remove from heat. And stir in the instant mashed potato powder. Let it sit while you prepare the meat.
Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf: In a large mixing bowl. Combine ground beef, diced onions, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Integrate the breadcrumbs. And egg. Until the mixture is well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole: Press the meat mixture. Into the prepared baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top. Sprinkle with shredded cheese. And scatter bacon bits over everything.
Step 5: Bake: Cover with aluminum foil. And bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil. And continue to bake. For another 10 minutes. To get a golden cheesy crust.
Step 6: Serve: Let the casserole cool. For a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm. And enjoy the comforting flavors!
Tip:
For an even more impressive presentation. And flavor distribution. In your Comforting Meatloaf Potato Casserole. Focus on how you layer the mashed potatoes. Over the meat. Use a piping bag or a zip-top bag. With a corner snipped off. To pipe the mashed potatoes. Onto the meat layer. This method. Not only creates a visually appealing top layer. But also ensures an even and consistent layer of potatoes. Which helps every slice cook uniformly. And tastes just right. Plus, it adds. A touch of elegance. To this hearty dish!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. And refrigerate. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time. If cooking from cold.
What can I serve with this casserole?
A simple green salad. Or steamed vegetables. Complement the rich flavors perfectly.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container. In the refrigerator. For up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave. Or oven. Until thoroughly warmed.
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Comforting Meatloaf Potato Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 c water
- 1/2 c milk
- 1 4- ounce package garlic flavored instant mashed potatoes
- 1 pound ground beef extra lean
- 1/2 c onion diced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 c seasoned Italian bread crumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 1/2 c cheddar cheese blend shredded
- 1/4 c real bacon bits
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (204°C).
- Prepare the Potatoes: In a saucepan, bring water and milk to a boil. Remove from heat and mix in the instant mashed potato powder. Set aside.
- Mix the Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix in the bread crumbs and egg until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Press the meat mixture into an 8-inch square baking dish. Evenly spread the mashed potatoes over the meat. Top with shredded cheese and sprinkle with bacon bits.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes to brown the top.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before cutting into it. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
