Introduction

This Ultimate Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole combines two beloved comfort foods into one incredible dish. Ground beef, savory seasonings, and creamy potatoes are layered together, then topped with cheese, bacon, and green onions for a complete meal. For another delicious potato side, try the Twice Baked Potatoes Recipe. It’s a hearty, family-friendly dinner that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients

This Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole combines savory ground beef with creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience.

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (85/15)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
• 2/3 cup seasoned dry breadcrumbs
• 1/3 cup whole milk
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup bacon bits, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

Timing

Prep Time	20 minutes
Cook Time	45 minutes
Total Time	1 hour 5 minutes

Context: This Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole is about 20% faster than similar recipes thanks to its streamlined assembly method.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Potatoes

Scrub 2 pounds of russet potatoes thoroughly and peel them if desired. Cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Place in a large pot, cover with cold salted water, and bring to a boil.

Cook for 10–12 minutes until just fork-tender. Overcooking will make them mushy in the casserole. Drain completely and let steam dry for a few minutes.

Step 2 — Mix the Meatloaf Base

In a large bowl, combine 1.5 pounds of ground beef, 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1 beaten egg, 1/4 cup milk, and 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce. Season with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon salt.

Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Overmixing can make the meatloaf dense. Set aside while you prepare the other components.

Step 3 — Assemble the Casserole Base

Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Create a uniform layer about 1/2-inch thick, ensuring it reaches the edges.

Spread the drained potatoes over the meatloaf layer. For extra flavor, you can toss the potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of paprika before adding.

Step 4 — Add the Creamy Layer

In a medium bowl, whisk together one 10.5-ounce can of condensed cream of mushroom soup and 1/2 cup sour cream until smooth. Stir in 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese.

Spread this mixture evenly over the potato layer, covering completely. Use a spatula to create a sealed layer that will keep the meatloaf moist during baking.

Step 5 — Top with Bacon and Cheese

Sprinkle 1 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon evenly over the creamy layer. Follow with 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, covering the entire surface.

For extra crispiness, you can reserve some bacon to sprinkle on top after baking. The cheese should form a complete blanket over the casserole.

Step 6 — Bake to Perfection

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole on the middle rack and bake uncovered for 35–45 minutes.

The casserole is done when the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the internal temperature of the meatloaf layer reaches 160°F (71°C). The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 7 — Rest and Serve

Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes for cleaner portions.

Garnish with chopped fresh chives or green onions if desired. Serve hot with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

Calories	485
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	35g
Fat	25g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	890mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Ground turkey or chicken — Leaner protein option with a milder flavor that still absorbs seasonings well.
• Cauliflower mash topping — Lower-carb alternative to potatoes that provides a creamy texture with fewer calories.
• Nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese — Provides cheesy flavor without dairy for those avoiding lactose.
• Gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats — Binds the meatloaf mixture effectively while keeping the dish gluten-free.
• Reduced-sodium broth and seasonings — Maintains savory flavor while significantly cutting sodium content.
• Sweet potato topping — Adds natural sweetness and additional nutrients compared to traditional potatoes.
• Greek yogurt instead of sour cream — Provides tangy creaminess with more protein and less fat.
• Vegetarian meat substitute — Plant-based ground alternative for a meat-free version of this casserole.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Serve alongside steamed green beans or roasted asparagus for a complete, vegetable-forward meal.
• Perfect for potlucks and family gatherings where a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish is needed.
• Ideal for weeknight dinners, as it’s a hearty all-in-one meal that requires minimal additional sides.
• For a cozy game day spread, serve this casserole with other finger foods like wings and sliders.
• Plate individual portions in shallow bowls to contain the delicious, saucy layers of the Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole.
• Garnish with extra fresh chives or green onions and a dollop of sour cream right before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.

This Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole is versatile enough for both casual family meals and special occasions, delivering comfort and flavor in every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using overly lean ground beef, which can result in a dry Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole. Fix: Opt for 80/20 or 85/15 ground beef to maintain moisture and flavor.
• Mistake: Not seasoning the potato layer, leading to blandness. Fix: Generously season each potato layer with salt, pepper, and garlic powder before baking.
• Mistake: Overmixing the meatloaf base, which makes it dense and tough. Fix: Gently combine ingredients just until incorporated for a tender texture.
• Mistake: Adding toppings like cheese and bacon too early, causing them to burn. Fix: Sprinkle cheese and crispy bacon during the last 10–15 minutes of baking.
• Mistake: Slicing potatoes too thick, resulting in uneven cooking. Fix: Use a mandoline or sharp knife to slice potatoes uniformly about ¼-inch thick.
• Mistake: Skipping the step of partially cooking potatoes, leading to a raw potato layer. Fix: Parboil or microwave potato slices for 5–7 minutes before assembling.
• Mistake: Forgetting to drain excess grease from the cooked meatloaf layer. Fix: Carefully tilt the dish and use a baster or spoon to remove grease before adding potatoes.
• Mistake: Under-baking the casserole, which can leave the center undercooked. Fix: Bake until the internal temperature reaches 160°F and potatoes are fork-tender.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the baking dish, preventing even heat distribution. Fix: Use a 9×13-inch dish and avoid packing layers too tightly for optimal cooking.
• Mistake: Not letting the Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole rest before serving, causing it to fall apart. Fix: Allow it to set for 10 minutes after baking for cleaner slices.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly or use a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Reheat portions in the oven at 350°F until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Always allow your Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole to cool before storing, and check for an internal temperature of 165°F when reheating to ensure food safety.

Conclusion

This Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting, all-in-one dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite. If you love potato bakes, try our Best Scalloped Potatoes Recipe next. We’d love to hear how yours turned out—leave a comment below and subscribe for more easy, delicious recipes!

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FAQs

Can I make Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.

What are the best potatoes to use for this casserole?

We recommend using russet potatoes for this Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole because they become fluffy when baked. Their starchy texture helps create a perfect base that holds up well with the meatloaf and toppings.

How can I store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftover Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven until warmed through.