Name: Potato Meatloaf Casserole
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 70 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds of lean ground beef or turkey.; ½ cup finely chopped white onion.; 1 tablespoon minced garlic.; 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs.; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce.; 1 large egg, lightly beaten.; ⅓ cup cottage cheese.; ½ cup BBQ sauce.; 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced.; ½ cup unsalted butter.; ½ cup sour cream.; ½ cup warm milk or half-and-half.; 1 teaspoon kosher salt.; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper.; 6 slices thick bacon, cooked and crumbled.; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese.

This Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is a crowd-pleaser, bringing together the best of comfort food in one hearty dish. The savory meatloaf base is made from ground beef or turkey, seasoned with Worcestershire sauce and BBQ sauce for an extra punch of flavor. Topped with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, this casserole is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. To ensure the ultimate texture, the mashed potatoes are whipped with butter, sour cream, and milk for a smooth finish, while the bacon adds a crunchy, smoky contrast. Serve this comforting dish straight from the oven and watch it disappear in no time.

The Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is a true comfort dish, perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings. Combining savory meatloaf and creamy mashed potatoes, this casserole brings together everything you love about comfort food in one hearty dish. Originating from classic American cuisine, this recipe offers not only layers of flavor but also a blend of textures, from the tender meat to the smooth, cheesy potatoes. The use of ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, BBQ, and cottage cheese adds depth to the meatloaf, while cheddar cheese and bacon bring a sharp, crispy finish to the top layer.

INGREDIENTS

Lean Ground Beef or Turkey: 1 ½ pounds, adding hearty protein to the meatloaf base.
White Onion: ½ cup finely chopped, offering subtle sweetness and depth.
Minced Garlic: 1 tablespoon, bringing a savory aroma and flavor.
Seasoned Bread Crumbs: 1 cup, for binding and adding texture.
Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon, enhancing the savory, umami flavors.
Large Egg: 1, lightly beaten, helping to bind the meatloaf together.
Cottage Cheese: ⅓ cup, adding creaminess and moisture to the meatloaf.
BBQ Sauce: ½ cup, for a tangy, smoky flavor in the meatloaf.
Potatoes: 2 pounds, peeled and diced, forming the base for the mashed potatoes.
Unsalted Butter: ½ cup, adding richness to the mashed potatoes.
Sour Cream: ½ cup, for creaminess and a slight tang in the potatoes.
Warm Milk or Half-and-Half: ½ cup, making the mashed potatoes smooth and creamy.
Kosher Salt: 1 teaspoon, seasoning the mashed potatoes to taste.
Ground Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon, for a touch of spice and depth in the potatoes.
Thick Bacon: 6 slices, cooked and crumbled, adding a crispy, smoky topping.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 ½ cups, for a rich, melted cheese topping.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
Step 2:: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, egg, cottage cheese, and BBQ sauce. Spread evenly in the prepared baking pan.
Step 3:: Bake meatloaf for 30 minutes in the preheated oven.
Step 4:: While the meatloaf is baking, boil the diced potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
Step 5:: Add butter to the potatoes and mash until smooth. Mix in sour cream, milk, salt, and pepper until creamy.
Step 6:: Remove meatloaf from the oven and drain any excess grease. Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf.
Step 7:: Top with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
Step 8:: Return to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 9:: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

Let the casserole cool slightly before cutting to ensure clean slices.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Helpful Notes

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meatloaf mixture.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Chef Smith recommends using smoked bacon for an added layer of flavor.

Perfect Comfort Meal for Dinner

This casserole not only combines the heartiness of meatloaf with the creaminess of mashed potatoes, but also offers a crispy, cheesy finish. The bacon and cheddar cheese make it a satisfying dinner option, sure to please both kids and adults. It's ideal for busy weeknights, where you need a meal that is filling and easy to prepare. The meatloaf layer can be made ahead, making it a convenient choice for meal prep.

Tips for an Even More Flavorful Casserole

To enhance the flavor, experiment with different types of cheese, such as smoked gouda or pepper jack. You can also try adding caramelized onions to the mashed potatoes for a sweeter twist, or replace the ground meat with sausage for a spicier, more robust flavor. Baking the casserole in a cast-iron skillet adds a rustic touch and helps retain heat for longer serving times.

FAQs

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, using leftover mashed potatoes is a great time-saver. Just ensure they are reheated and creamy before spreading them over the meatloaf layer.

Summary

The Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is a satisfying dish that combines savory meatloaf, mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, and bacon for a hearty meal. It’s easy to make and sure to become a family favorite. The seasoned ground meat provides a rich base, while the fluffy mashed potatoes create a creamy layer on top. With melted cheddar cheese and crispy bacon finishing off the dish, each bite is packed with comforting flavors and textures. Perfect for dinner, it can be prepared ahead of time and reheated for a simple, flavorful meal.