Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with Cheesy Potatoes

There’s something magical about combining two comfort food favorites into one incredible dish. This Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with Cheesy Potatoes takes the beloved classic meatloaf and transforms it into a complete meal by adding a layer of creamy, cheesy potatoes on top. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone at the table smile – pure comfort food at its finest.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 520 per serving

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your ordinary meatloaf – it’s a complete meal in one dish! The bottom layer features a perfectly seasoned, juicy meatloaf, while the top showcases creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes that get golden and crispy in the oven. It’s like having meatloaf and loaded baked potatoes in every bite. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.

Ingredients & Equipment

For the Meatloaf Layer:

• 2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

For the Potato Layer:

• 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes
• 1 cup whole milk, warmed
• ½ cup butter, melted
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 3 green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment Needed:

• 9×13 baking dish
• Large mixing bowls
• Potato masher or electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil
• Meat thermometer

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel and cut potatoes into 1-inch chunks
2. Boil in salted water until tender (15-20 minutes)
3. Drain well and return to pot
4. Add warm milk, melted butter, and sour cream
5. Mash until smooth
6. Stir in 1 cup cheddar cheese
7. Season with salt and pepper

Make the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
2. In a large bowl, combine:

• Ground beef
• Breadcrumbs
• Eggs
• Diced onion
• Minced garlic
• Milk
• Worcestershire sauce
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper

1. Mix gently until just combined

Prepare the Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together:

• Ketchup
• Brown sugar
• Dijon mustard
• Worcestershire sauce

Assemble and Bake

1. Press meatloaf mixture into 9×13 baking dish
2. Spread half of glaze over meatloaf
3. Top with mashed potato mixture
4. Sprinkle with remaining cheese
5. Cover with foil
6. Bake for 45 minutes
7. Remove foil
8. Add bacon crumbles
9. Bake uncovered 15 minutes until cheese is golden
10. Top with green onions before serving

Expert Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overmix: Handle the meatloaf mixture gently to keep it tender. Overmixing can make it tough.
2. Perfect Potatoes: For the creamiest potatoes, use Yukon Gold and make sure they’re completely dry before mashing.
3. Temperature Matters: Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to help it set and make cleaner portions.

Variations and Substitutions

• Meat Options: Use a mix of ground beef and pork, or try ground turkey
• Potato Variations:
• Add roasted garlic
• Use different cheese blends
• Mix in some mashed cauliflower
• Glaze Alternatives:
• BBQ sauce based glaze
• Honey mustard version
• Spicy variation with added hot sauce

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Wrap well and freeze for up to 3 months
• Reheating:
• Thaw overnight if frozen
• Heat covered at 350°F until warm through
• Individual portions can be microwaved

Troubleshooting Guide

Problem: Meatloaf is dry
Solution:

• Check internal temperature (160°F is perfect)
• Don’t overbake
• Use meat with enough fat content

Problem: Potatoes are gluey
Solution:

• Don’t overwork the potatoes
• Ensure potatoes are well-drained
• Use warm (not hot) milk

Problem: Too much liquid in pan
Solution:

• Let meat rest before slicing
• Drain potatoes thoroughly
• Check seal on foil during baking

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes! Assemble up to 24 hours ahead, refrigerate, and add 10-15 minutes to baking time.

Q: How do I know when it’s done?
A: Meatloaf should reach 160°F internal temperature, and potatoes should be golden on top.

Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
A: While homemade is best, you can use instant potatoes in a pinch. Prepare according to package directions and add the cheese and toppings.

Q: Why do you add the bacon at the end?
A: Adding it later keeps it crispy. If added at the beginning, it can become soft under the cheese.

This Loaded Meatloaf Casserole with Cheesy Potatoes is comfort food at its finest – a perfect blend of two classic dishes that creates something even better than the sum of its parts. It’s ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you need a hearty, satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Last modified: February 22, 2025