This loaded potato and meatloaf casserole is a hearty and delicious dish that combines two classic comfort foods: meatloaf and mashed potatoes. With layers of savory meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for a satisfying dinner, this recipe is easy to make and full of flavor. Follow these steps to create a comforting and delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds of finely ground lean 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
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, seasoned bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, lightly beaten egg, and cottage cheese.
- Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Press the meatloaf mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake the Meatloaf:
- Spread the BBQ sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- While the meatloaf is baking, place the diced potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Add a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Once drained, place the potatoes back into the pot.
- Add the unsalted butter, sour cream, warm milk or half-and-half, kosher salt, and ground black pepper.
- Mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Once the meatloaf is done baking, remove it from the oven.
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meatloaf layer.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the mashed potatoes.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Return the assembled casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy this comforting and delicious loaded potato and meatloaf casserole.
Conclusion
This loaded potato and meatloaf casserole is a perfect combination of savory meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this casserole is sure to become a favorite family meal. Enjoy the comfort and satisfaction of this hearty dish, perfect for any dinner occasion!