Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole – If you’re looking for a satisfying dinner that will please the family look no further. Our Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole is a twist, on classic meatloaf that is sure to impress. Imagine layers of ground beef, mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon bits all baked together to perfection. This dish brings together the best of both worlds. Meatloaf and potatoes. In one casserole.
This recipe holds a special place in my heart. The first time I made it I wanted to find a way to satisfy both my meatloaf-loving husband and my picky child who can’t get enough of mashed potatoes. It was a hit. Quickly became a regular feature on our dinner table. There’s something about how the flavors and textures come together in this casserole. It truly pleases everyone who tries it.
What makes this Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole truly comforting?
Treat yourself to the comfort food experience, with our Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole. This dish expertly combines the tastes of meatloaf and mashed potatoes creating a symphony of delights in every mouthful. What makes it even better is its simplicity making it perfect for any weeknight dinner. Moreover it pleases everyone’s palate, appealing to both fans of meatloaf and lovers of mashed potatoes. This delightful dish combines a blend of textures and flavors featuring seasoned ground beef, smooth and creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese that adds gooey goodness and crispy bacon bits. It’s no wonder this casserole is bound to win over the hearts of your family.
What You Need To Make This Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole Recipe?
Ground Beef (85/15): To ensure a meatloaf that’s juicy and full of flavor go for ground beef with an 85/15 ratio of lean to fat. The higher fat content adds moisture and flavor without making the dish overly greasy.
Potatoes: For the mashed potatoes opt for potatoes, like Russet. These potatoes have plenty of starch which gives the potatoes their desired fluffy and smooth texture.
Bacon Bits: You can either use store-bought bacon bits for convenience or make your crispy bacon bits, which are also a delicious alternative. Just remember to drain any grease before adding them to the casserole.
Cheddar Cheese: This recipe recommends using cheddar cheese as it adds a tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory meatloaf and creamy mashed potatoes. You can use shredded cheese or grate it yourself for an extra fresh taste.
Seasoned Dry Breadcrumbs: The breadcrumbs play a role as a binder in the meatloaf by helping to hold it. When you use seasoned breadcrumbs they add a depth of flavor to the meat mixture.
Milk: Both in the meatloaf mixture and the mashed potatoes whole milk is used to add creaminess. It’s an ingredient, for achieving the desired texture and richness.
Egg: The egg plays a role, in the meatloaf by acting as a binder ensuring it stays together while baking. It also adds moisture and structure to the meatloaf making it more enjoyable to eat.
Kosher Salt and Coarse Ground Black Pepper: Salt and coarse ground black pepper are used as seasonings in both the meatloaf and mashed potatoes to enhance their flavor. The coarse texture of pepper adds a crunch and a touch of spiciness to the dish.
Unsalted Butter: Incorporating butter into the potatoes brings an extra level of creaminess and flavor. By using unsalted butter you have control, over the amount of salt in your recipe allowing you to adjust it according to your taste preference.
Steps To Make Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole:
Step 1: Firstly preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure it’s nice and warm, for the deliciousness.
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Step 2: Now in a mixing bowl let’s prepare the star of the show. The meatloaf. Add the ground beef (use the 85/15 kind for juiciness). Chopped onions that bring loads of flavor. Sprinkle in some breadcrumbs for texture, pour in the milk, and acknowledge the egg for binding everything. Season with a pinch of salt and a couple of grinds of black pepper. Roll up your sleeves. Mix everything thoroughly.
Step 3: Press this mixture into a baking dish measuring 9×9 inches forming a foundation, for your savory masterpiece.
Step 4: Place it in the oven without covering. Let it bake for 15 minutes. Take this opportunity to enjoy the aromas that will fill your kitchen.
Step 5: While the meatloaf is cooking away let’s give some attention to those potatoes. Place them in a pot cover them with water and turn up the heat. Once they reach boiling point set a timer for 15 minutes.
Step 6: Once the potatoes are soft and tender drain them thoroughly. Now here’s where the magic happens. Add the butter, milk, salt and pepper. Mix it all together until it becomes creamy and delightful.
Step 7: Take the meatloaf out of the oven. Appreciate its beauty. Now generously spread that comforting mashed potato goodness, over it. It’s like giving your meatloaf an embrace.
Step 8: Sprinkle on some cheddar cheese. The more the merrier. And don’t forget those crispy bacon bits. That’s the finishing touch.
Step 9: Put it back in the oven for another 15 minutes. Enough time for the cheese to melt and bubble while the bacon sizzles away. When it’s ready your mashed potatoes will have a crispy edge. Your casserole will be a feast for both eyes and taste buds.
Step 10: Lastly, gather everyone around. Indulging in this Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole is like a comforting hug, on a plate – you’re about to become everyone’s dinner table hero. Enjoy!
Tip:
To enrich the taste of your meatloaf you can sauté the diced onions in butter until they turn sheer. Once they’re caramelized add them to the meat mixture. This easy tone adds a blend of sweetness and piquant notes that boost the delectability of your meatloaf.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole ahead of time?
Of course! You can definitely prepare the Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole ahead of time. When you’re ready to serve simply cover it with foil. Warm it up in the oven.
What can I serve as a side dish with this casserole?
As for side dishes a refreshing green salad or some steamed vegetables would complement this casserole nicely. They provide a balance to the richness of the dish.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version?
If you’re looking for a leaner version ground turkey is a choice instead of beef. Just make sure to season it to enhance its flavor.
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lb. Ground Beef 85/15
- 1/4 yellow onion finely chopped
- 2/3 c. seasoned dry breadcrumbs
- 1/3 c. whole milk
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 1/2 tsp Kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp coarse ground black pepper
- 2 lb potatoes peeled and cut into 1" chunks
- 1/3 c. unsalted butter
- 1/2 c. whole milk
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp coarse ground black pepper
- 1/2 c. bacon bits cooked and crumbled
- 1 c. cheddar cheese shredded
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a bowl gently mix together the ground beef, chopped onion seasoned breadcrumbs, milk, beaten egg, Kosher salt and coarse ground black pepper. Once combined press this mixture into a baking dish measuring 9x9 inches.
- Place the meatloaf in the oven. Bake it uncovered for 15 minutes. Afterward take it out of the oven. Drain any fat.
- While the meatloaf is cooking, put the peeled and diced potatoes in a pot. Cover them with enough water. Bring it to a boil, over high heat. Let them cook for 15 minutes.
- Drain the water from the potatoes. Add in milk, butter, salt and pepper. Mash everything together until you achieve creamy mashed potatoes.
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf and top this combination with cheddar cheese and crispy bacon bits.
- Return to bake for another 15 minutes. Until the bacon becomes crispy, the cheese melts beautifully and a delightful slight crispiness forms, on top of the potatoes.
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!
2 Responses
This recipe sounds good, but I can’t imagine a 1 1/2 pound meatloaf would be cooked in 30 minutes. What am I missing?
Hi Margaret,
Oven performance can differ, so it’s advisable to confirm doneness, but the suggested timing yielded great results for me.
Bon appétit!