Cheesy Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole

Introduction:
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole. It’s a satisfying twist on classic meatloaf, topped with mashed potatoes, cheese, bacon, and green onions, all baked into a delicious, creamy casserole. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Comfort food favorite: Combines meatloaf and loaded potatoes into one.
• Cheesy goodness: With plenty of melty cheese and crispy bacon on top.
• Great for meal prep: Makes enough for leftovers or for freezing.

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf Layer:

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Loaded Potato Layer:

• 3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Toppings:

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 green onions, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Make the Meatloaf Layer:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
   • Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the greased baking dish to form the base of the casserole.
3. Bake the Meatloaf Layer:
   • Bake the meatloaf layer in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it is just cooked through.
4. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
   • While the meatloaf is baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook until tender, about 15 minutes.
   • Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, sour cream, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Once the meatloaf layer is cooked, carefully spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
6. Add Toppings and Bake:
   • Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes, followed by the crumbled bacon.
   • Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   • Once out of the oven, sprinkle the casserole with chopped green onions.
   • Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Tips for Success:

• Cheese: Use your favorite cheese blend or add extra cheese for an even cheesier dish.
• Potatoes: For extra flavor, you can add roasted garlic to the mashed potatoes.
• Customization: Add vegetables like peas or corn into the meatloaf layer for extra texture and nutrition.

Recipe Variations:

• Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Loaded Mashed Potatoes: Mix in some chives, extra bacon, or even a bit of ranch seasoning into the mashed potatoes for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Pair with a cold glass of iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing contrast.

Freezing and Storage:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Special Equipment:

• 9×13-inch baking dish for layering and baking the casserole.
• Potato masher for creamy, smooth mashed potatoes.

FAQ:

• Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
  Yes! If you’re in a hurry, instant mashed potatoes can be used as a quick alternative.
• Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
  Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole, refrigerate it, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Preparation Time:

• 20 minutes for assembling the meatloaf and preparing the potatoes.

Cook Time:

• 45 minutes total (25 minutes for the meatloaf layer and 20 minutes for final baking).

Total Time:

• 1 hour 5 minutes (including prep and baking).

Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g

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Closing Notes:
This Cheesy Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole is the perfect family meal, combining the rich flavors of meatloaf with the comforting, cheesy goodness of loaded mashed potatoes. It’s a fun and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a new favorite.