There’s nothing quite like sitting down to a bubbling, cheesy casserole on a busy weeknight—and this Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole is the kind of comfort food dreams are made of! Imagine all the hearty flavors of classic meatloaf layered with creamy mashed potatoes and topped with gooey cheddar, zesty green onions, and a tangy ketchup drizzle. It’s a meal that brings everyone to the table with big smiles and even bigger appetites. What makes this recipe even more irresistible is just how quick and simple it is to throw together! Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or a big family, this dish is guaranteed to please. If you loved the classic Chicken Alfredo Bake from last week, this is your new must-try. Ready to dig in? Let’s bring those nostalgic flavors to your dinner table tonight!
What is Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole?
Ever wonder what happens when your favorite comfort foods collide? Enter Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole—because why pick between mashed potatoes and meatloaf when you can have both? The name alone is enough to make any meat-and-potatoes lover weak in the knees! Legend has it, this recipe was born when someone asked, “What if I piled all the best parts of dinner into one dish?” Well, they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this casserole certainly lives up to the saying. Give it a try—your heart (and your belly) will thank you!
Why You’ll Love This
The biggest highlight of this casserole is, without a doubt, its perfect balance of rich meatloaf, creamy potatoes, and a golden, cheesy topping. These layers turn simple ingredients into pure comfort, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser for weeknights and potlucks alike. Making it at home also means you can skip the expensive takeout or premade grocery options—saving you money while still treating your family to a hearty, satisfying meal. And let’s not forget those flavorful toppings: tangy ketchup, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions elevate every bite. If you’ve enjoyed my Homestyle Shepherd’s Pie recipe, you’ll love this twist even more. Ready to experience the magic? Whip up a pan tonight!
How to Make
Quick Overview
This Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole is made for busy cooks and hungry families! With just about 20 minutes of prep, plus baking time, you’ll have a warm, cheesy meal packed with savory ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and melty cheese. Everything comes together in one baking dish, making cleanup a breeze. It’s simple, filling, and oh-so-satisfying—a true staple for anyone looking for an easy homemade dinner with tons of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and set aside.
- Start with the potatoes: Place peeled, sliced potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain well.
- While the potatoes cook, combine ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overwork the meat.
- Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared casserole dish, forming a dense, even layer.
- Spread ketchup evenly over the top of the meat mixture.
- Once the potatoes are tender, return them to the pot. Add butter, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
- Spoon the mashed potatoes over the meatloaf layer in the casserole dish, spreading them to cover the meat completely.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top of the potatoes.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the meat is cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before topping with chopped green onions. Slice and serve hot!
What to Serve Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole With
Pairing this casserole with a few simple sides makes for a well-rounded meal. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly. Roasted or steamed veggies like broccoli, carrots, or green beans complement the creamy, cheesy layers. If you’re feeling extra cozy, serve with soft dinner rolls—perfect for sopping up every flavorful bite. For drinks, an iced tea or sparkling lemonade adds a refreshing touch. And if you’re looking for the perfect finish, why not try a simple apple crisp or fruit cobbler for dessert?
Top Tips for Perfecting
- Ingredient Flexibility: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist, or use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
- Timing Tricks: For faster prep, use store-bought mashed potatoes or leftover mash and pre-shredded cheese.
- Avoid Over-Mixing: When making the meatloaf layer, mix just until combined—overworking the beef can lead to a tough texture.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with a mix of cheeses, like mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for extra gooeyness.
- Classic Mistakes: Don’t boil the potatoes too long or they’ll become watery; also, let the casserole rest a few minutes before slicing to help it set.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Leftover Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole stores beautifully! Cool any leftovers completely, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 4 days. For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover and reheat larger portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish is also freezer-friendly: wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake until piping hot. Perfect for meal prep or enjoying again later!
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, cover and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
What potatoes work best for this recipe?
Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are great choices—they mash up creamy and smooth for the perfect topping.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Cool completely, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even a meatless plant-based alternative will also work if you prefer a different protein.
How do I prevent the mashed potatoes from getting watery?
Be sure to drain the potatoes thoroughly and mash them well before adding to the casserole. Avoid adding too much extra milk.
Conclusion
If you’re searching for a hearty, homey recipe that’s equal parts comforting and delicious, this Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole belongs at the top of your dinner list. It’s a fuss-free meal that delivers big flavor, creamy texture, and cheesy goodness in every single bite. Whether for a weeknight feast or Sunday supper, it’s a dish guaranteed to gather everyone around the table. Give this recipe a try tonight—and don’t forget to explore more comforting casseroles and easy-family meals on the blog!
Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole
Equipment
-
Casserole Dish
-
Large Pot
-
Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Meatloaf Layer
- 1.5 pounds Ground Beef
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 0.5 cup Breadcrumbs
- 0.25 cup Milk
- 1 large Egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper
Potato Layer
- 2 pounds Potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 0.5 cup Sour Cream
- 0.25 cup Milk
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 0.25 cup Chopped Green Onions
Seasoning
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and set aside.
-
Place peeled, sliced potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain well.
-
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
-
Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
-
Spread ketchup evenly over the top of the meat mixture.
-
Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Add butter, sour cream, 1/4 cup milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
-
Spoon the mashed potatoes over the meatloaf layer in the casserole dish, spreading them to cover the meat completely.
-
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top of the potatoes.
-
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the meat is cooked through.
-
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before topping with chopped green onions. Slice and serve hot!
Notes
Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole
Equipment
- Casserole Dish
- Large Pot
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Meatloaf Layer
- 1.5 pounds Ground Beef
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 0.5 cup Breadcrumbs
- 0.25 cup Milk
- 1 large Egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper
Potato Layer
- 2 pounds Potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 0.5 cup Sour Cream
- 0.25 cup Milk
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 0.25 cup Chopped Green Onions
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish and set aside.
- Place peeled, sliced potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain well.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
- Spread ketchup evenly over the top of the meat mixture.
- Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Add butter, sour cream, 1/4 cup milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
- Spoon the mashed potatoes over the meatloaf layer in the casserole dish, spreading them to cover the meat completely.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top of the potatoes.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the meat is cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before topping with chopped green onions. Slice and serve hot!