Name: Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 90 min
Yield: 8-10 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor); 1 lb ground pork (optional, adds richness); 1 large onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped; 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped; 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned); 1/2 cup milk; 2 large eggs, lightly beaten; 1/4 cup ketchup; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup milk (for mashed potatoes); 4 tablespoons butter, divided (2 for potatoes, 2 for topping); 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided; 1/2 cup cooked bacon crumbles; 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or green onions

Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole: Prepare to have your weeknight dinner routine revolutionized! Imagine the comforting flavors of classic meatloaf, the creamy indulgence of loaded baked potatoes, and the satisfying ease of a casserole all rolled into one unforgettable dish. This isn't just dinner; it's a culinary hug on a plate, guaranteed to become a family favorite.

While the exact origins of combining meatloaf and potatoes in a casserole format are somewhat shrouded in mystery (likely born from resourceful home cooks seeking to maximize flavor and minimize dishes!), both meatloaf and potatoes boast rich histories. Meatloaf, in its various forms, has been a staple in kitchens for centuries, evolving from simple meat loaves to the seasoned and sauced versions we know and love today. Potatoes, originating in South America, have become a global culinary cornerstone, lending themselves to countless preparations.

So, why is this Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole so irresistible? It's the perfect marriage of textures – the tender, savory meatloaf, the fluffy, cheesy potatoes, and the crispy bacon topping create a symphony of deliciousness in every bite. Beyond the taste, it's incredibly convenient. This one-dish wonder simplifies cleanup and is easily customizable to suit your family's preferences. Whether you're looking for a hearty meal on a chilly evening or a crowd-pleasing dish for a potluck, this casserole delivers on all fronts. Get ready to experience comfort food bliss!

Ingredients:

2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
1 lb ground pork (optional, adds richness)
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
1/2 cup milk
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup milk (for mashed potatoes)
4 tablespoons butter, divided (2 for potatoes, 2 for topping)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 cup cooked bacon crumbles
1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or green onions

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture:

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork (if using). I like to use my hands to gently mix them together, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the bowl. These vegetables add moisture and flavor to the meatloaf.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. This mixture will help bind the meatloaf together and add even more flavor.
Pour the breadcrumb mixture over the meat and vegetable mixture. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don't be shy with the seasoning – it's crucial for a flavorful meatloaf!
Gently mix all the ingredients together until just combined. Again, be careful not to overmix. You want everything to be evenly distributed, but you don't want to work the meat too much.

Preparing the Mashed Potatoes:

While you're working on the meatloaf, get your potatoes going. Place the peeled and cubed russet potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork.
Drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander. Return them to the pot.
Add 2 tablespoons of butter, sour cream, and 1/4 cup of milk to the potatoes. Use a potato masher or an electric mixer to mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. Add more milk if needed to reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. I like my mashed potatoes a little on the thicker side for this casserole, but feel free to adjust to your preference.

Assembling the Casserole:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This will prevent the meatloaf from sticking to the bottom.
Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared baking dish. Gently shape it into an even layer, covering the entire bottom of the dish. You can use your hands or a spatula to do this.
Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf layer. Try to create a smooth, even surface.
In a small bowl, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Drizzle the melted butter over the mashed potatoes. This will help them brown nicely in the oven.
Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes. Reserve the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese for later.
Sprinkle the cooked bacon crumbles over the cheese.

Baking the Casserole:

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help prevent the top from browning too quickly and ensure that the meatloaf cooks through.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole.
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the meatloaf is cooked through. The internal temperature of the meatloaf should reach 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to check.
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the meatloaf to firm up slightly and make it easier to slice.
Garnish with chopped fresh chives or green onions before serving.

Tips and Variations:

Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture for a little heat.
Vegetable variations: Feel free to add other vegetables to the meatloaf, such as chopped mushrooms, carrots, or celery.
Cheese variations: Use a different type of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or pepper jack.
Topping variations: Instead of bacon crumbles, try using crumbled cooked sausage or crispy fried onions.
Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Freezing instructions: Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed, adding an extra 20-30 minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions:

This Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables. It's also great served with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of your favorite barbecue sauce.

Conclusion:

This Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole is truly a weeknight dinner champion, and I wholeheartedly believe it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. Why? Because it's the ultimate comfort food mashup! We're talking the savory, satisfying goodness of meatloaf, the creamy, cheesy indulgence of loaded baked potatoes, and the convenience of a one-dish casserole. It's a flavor explosion that's guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. But beyond the incredible taste, this recipe is a winner because it's surprisingly easy to make. Forget slaving away in the kitchen for hours; this casserole comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it's incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your family's preferences and dietary needs. Looking for serving suggestions? I love serving this casserole with a simple side salad – the crisp freshness of the greens provides a lovely contrast to the richness of the casserole. Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli would also be fantastic additions. And for those who like a little extra kick, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce is always a welcome addition. Now, let's talk variations! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked Gouda would all be delicious. You could also add some chopped bacon to the meatloaf mixture for an extra layer of smoky flavor. If you're watching your carb intake, consider swapping out some of the potatoes for cauliflower rice. And for a vegetarian option, you could easily substitute the meatloaf with a lentil loaf or a plant-based ground meat alternative. The possibilities are endless! I've poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I'm confident that you'll love it as much as my family does. It's the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles on their faces. It's hearty, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of this Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole. I promise you won't be disappointed. And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Once you've tried the recipe, please come back and leave a comment below. Let me know what you thought, what variations you tried, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Sharing your feedback not only helps me improve the recipe but also inspires other readers to give it a try. Cooking is a collaborative process, and I'm excited to be on this culinary journey with you. Happy cooking! I can't wait to hear all about your delicious creations! Don't forget to snap a picture and tag me on social media – I love seeing your culinary masterpieces! Let's spread the love for this amazing casserole far and wide!