There’s something incredibly comforting about a Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole. It combines the heartiness of traditional meatloaf with the creamy, rich flavors of mashed potatoes, making it the ultimate comfort food for any day of the week. I remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma wafting from the oven took me back to my childhood dinners, where family gathered around the table for a hearty meal. This casserole is not just a dish; it’s a memory-maker, perfect for cozy weeknights or for impressing guests at a casual dinner party.
Why you’ll love this dish
Here’s why this Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole should be your next go-to recipe: it’s quick to whip up, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. With its layers of savory beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and a sprinkle of cheese, it offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something satisfying but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Plus, it’s an excellent dish for meal prep; just make a bigger batch for leftovers that taste even better the next day!
"I made this casserole for my family and they couldn’t get enough! Even my kids went back for seconds. This recipe is a keeper!" – A delighted home cook
How this recipe comes together
Making Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole is not only simple, but it’s also a straightforward process that yields delicious results. You’ll mix up a quick and easy meatloaf base, layer it in a baking dish, and finish it off with creamy mashed potatoes and melty cheese. The whole thing bakes together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Let’s dig into the ingredients you’ll need to gather for this delicious comfort food.
What you’ll need
For this recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 lb extra lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup seasoned Italian bread crumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 (4 oz) package of garlic-flavored instant mashed potatoes
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese blend
- 1/4 cup real bacon bits
You can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, and if you’re looking to cut carbs, consider omitting the potatoes or using a cauliflower mash instead.
