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Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole

Category: Satisfying Main Courses for Every Occasion

This dish layers seasoned ground beef with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting casserole, topped with melted cheddar and crispy bacon. The meatloaf base is prepared, then baked beneath a generous layer of buttery mashed potatoes, all finished with gooey cheese and savory bacon crumbles. Simple to prepare, it comes together in one pan and can be made ahead or even frozen for convenience. Serve with fresh herbs and a drizzle of brown gravy for extra depth and satisfaction. Perfect for gatherings or cozy family nights.

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Updated on Thu, 19 Jun 2025 13:07:35 GMT
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A plate of food with a fork on it. | recipesfoodyummy.com

This loaded potato and meatloaf casserole is the ultimate comfort food for chilly nights when you crave something hearty and packed with flavor. It layers savory meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, gooey melted cheese, and crisp bacon for a crowd-pleasing dish that always disappears fast at my family table.

This casserole first saved me during a holiday potluck when I needed something filling but easy. Now my kids want it every time we celebrate together.

Ingredients

  • Ground beef: brings juicy flavor and heartiness to the main layer Look for beef with moderate fat for best texture
  • Onion and garlic: add savory depth and aromatic richness Freshly chopped is best for full flavor
  • Breadcrumbs: help bind the meatloaf I like panko for a lighter crumble
  • Egg: ensures your meatloaf holds together after baking
  • Milk: keeps the meatloaf and potatoes moist and tender Whole milk or cream brings extra richness
  • Ketchup and Worcestershire sauce: give a classic tang and savory punch Pick your favorite ketchup variety
  • Russet potatoes: make the fluffiest mashed layer Choose firm and unblemished spuds
  • Butter: adds creaminess to the mash Go for real butter for the best taste
  • Cheddar cheese: melts over the top for gooey appeal Sharp cheddar gives a bolder flavor
  • Bacon: brings a smoky crunch Crispy cooked bacon bits deliver the perfect finish
  • Chives or thyme: brighten up every serving Fresh herbs make the dish pop
  • Optional brown gravy: ties everything together Use a homemade or favorite store-bought version

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Meatloaf Base:
In this step, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish thoroughly. Mix together the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Combine gently just until the mixture comes together without overworking to keep the meatloaf tender. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared dish, smoothing the top. Bake for twenty to twenty five minutes until mostly cooked through and lightly browned. If there is any excess grease after baking, carefully drain it off to prevent soggy layers.
Make the Mashed Potatoes:
Peel and dice three or four large russet potatoes, then place them in a large pot with salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for fifteen to twenty minutes or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork. Drain well and return the potatoes to the pot. Add butter and milk or cream along with salt and pepper. Mash the potatoes until completely smooth and creamy, tasting and adjusting the seasoning if needed.
Assemble the Casserole:
Once the meatloaf base is cooked, gently spread your creamy mashed potatoes over it, making sure to cover the entire surface evenly. Sprinkle the mashed potato layer with cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. This step adds both color and a satisfyingly crunchy top.
Bake and Serve:
Return the assembled casserole to the hot oven and bake for another fifteen to twenty minutes until the cheese melts fully and begins to bubble. Allow the casserole to rest for five minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped chives or fresh thyme just before serving. If desired, ladle with warm brown gravy to make each portion extra decadent.
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A slice of pie with a fork on a plate. | recipesfoodyummy.com

Crispy bacon is probably my favorite ingredient in this casserole Because my family loves the salty crunch on top they always fight for the corners. I remember my dad sneaking an extra crumble onto his slice every time I made this dish growing up.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can also freeze the entire cooled casserole wrapped tightly for up to two months. To reheat, bake covered at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit until hot throughout or microwave individual pieces for a quick meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to lighten up the base you can swap in ground turkey or chicken for the beef. For dairy free requests use olive oil in the potatoes and a dairy free cheese alternative. Toss in cooked corn or peas between the layers for added veggies and fiber.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is filling on its own but pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables. Top it with plenty of fresh herbs for a bright finish or serve alongside classic green beans for a nostalgic dinner.

Recipe Roots

Loaded potato and meatloaf casseroles have roots in both American diners and classic home kitchens. They combine that Sunday dinner nostalgia with a playful twist by stacking favorite comfort foods in one dish. Whenever I serve it friends comment on how it tastes a bit like old fashioned shepherd’s pie but with a cheesier and heartier flavor.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the layers, then refrigerate until ready to bake the final 20 minutes.

→ Is it possible to freeze leftovers?

Yes. Cool the casserole completely, wrap well, and freeze for up to two months for best quality.

→ How should I reheat portions for best results?

For even heating, cover and bake at 350°F or microwave single servings until warmed throughout.

→ Can I substitute ground turkey for the beef?

Yes, ground turkey works as a leaner alternative while maintaining the dish's flavor and texture.

→ What extra toppings can I add for flavor?

Fresh chives, thyme, or even a scoop of savory gravy enhance the casserole's delicious layers.

Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole

Layers of beef, creamy potatoes, cheese, and bacon make this casserole the ultimate hearty comfort dinner.

Prep Time
30 mins
Cooking Time
40 mins
Total Duration
70 mins
By: Loura

Recipe Type: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Portions Yielded: 8 Serving Size (One large casserole, serves 8 portions)

Dietary Preferences: ~

What You'll Need

→ Meatloaf Layer

01 680 g ground beef
02 1 small onion, finely chopped
03 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 60 g breadcrumbs
05 1 large egg
06 60 ml milk
07 30 ml ketchup
08 15 ml Worcestershire sauce
09 Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Mashed Potato Layer

10 1.2 kg russet potatoes, peeled and diced
11 60 g butter
12 120 ml milk or cream
13 Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Toppings

14 120 g shredded cheddar cheese
15 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
16 Fresh chives or thyme, finely chopped, for garnish
17 Brown gravy, warmed, for serving (optional)

Steps To Follow

Step 01

Preheat oven to 190°C. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just incorporated.

Step 02

Evenly press the meat mixture into the base of a greased 23x33 cm baking dish. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until mostly set. Remove and carefully drain excess fat if needed.

Step 03

As the meatloaf bakes, cook diced potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain, then mash with butter, milk or cream, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Step 04

Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the partially baked meatloaf. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the top, then scatter crumbled bacon over the cheese.

Step 05

Return dish to the oven and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbling. Rest for 5 minutes, garnish with chopped chives or thyme, and serve with warm brown gravy if desired.

Notes and Tips

  1. For enhanced flavor, infuse the mash with roasted garlic or stir in chopped fresh herbs.
  2. You may substitute ground turkey for beef to reduce fat content.
  3. Fold in cooked corn or peas between layers for added vegetables.

Required Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Large pot
  • 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish
  • Potato masher
  • Oven
  • Knife and chopping board

Allergy Info

Double-check every ingredient for possible allergens and consult a health professional if you're unsure.
  • Contains milk, eggs, gluten, and may contain traces of soy.

Nutritional Info (per serving)

These details are for informational purposes only and shouldn't replace medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: 485
  • Fats: 28 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Proteins: 29 g