Discover the Irresistible Loaded Potato Meatloaf Recipe

Introduction to Loaded Potato Meatloaf

Prepare to experience the ultimate comfort food mashup with our Loaded Potato Meatloaf! This irresistible dish combines the savory goodness of classic meatloaf with the irresistible flavors of loaded baked potatoes. Imagine tender ground beef, infused with onions, garlic, and herbs, topped with a generous layer of creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes, and finished with crispy bacon and melted cheddar. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a new family favorite.

Table of Contents

What is Loaded Potato Meatloaf?

At its core, Loaded Potato Meatloaf is a classic meatloaf recipe that’s taken to new heights. Instead of a simple meatloaf, we’ve added a layer of loaded mashed potatoes on top, creating a truly decadent and indulgent dish. The combination of savory beef, creamy potatoes, melty cheese, and crisp bacon is an absolute flavor explosion in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beyond the irresistible flavors, Loaded Potato Meatloaf is also incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family dinners. It’s a one-dish wonder that combines your main course and side dish into a single, satisfying meal. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies and nutrients for the whole family to enjoy.

Ingredients for Loaded Potato Meatloaf

For the Meatloaf

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Loaded Potatoes

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 3 tbsp butter
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup chopped green onions
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Extra shredded cheese for topping

Preparation Steps

Prep the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan and set it aside, ready to hold your delicious Loaded Potato Meatloaf.

Make the Meatloaf

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix everything together until the ingredients are well incorporated. Press the meatloaf mixture into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through.

Prepare the Potatoes

While the meatloaf is baking, peel and chop the potatoes. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the chopped potatoes. Cook until they are tender, about 15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and mash them with the butter and sour cream. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions. Season the loaded mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble and Bake

Assemble the Dish

Once the meatloaf has finished baking, carefully spread the loaded mashed potatoes over the top of the meatloaf, creating a delicious layered effect.

Final Bake

Return the assembled Loaded Potato Meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

How to Serve Loaded Potato Meatloaf

Allow the Loaded Potato Meatloaf to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps the layers hold together nicely. Serve the meatloaf warm, and don’t forget to top each slice with any extra shredded cheese or chopped green onions for a truly loaded presentation.

Pairing Ideas

While the Loaded Potato Meatloaf is a hearty and satisfying meal on its own, you can enhance the experience by pairing it with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a crusty bread. For a complementary beverage, a crisp white wine or a robust red wine would pair beautifully with this comforting dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

How to Store Leftovers

Any leftover Loaded Potato Meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The meatloaf and potatoes will hold their texture and flavor well when stored together.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat the Loaded Potato Meatloaf, simply place a slice or portion in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave, checking and stirring at 30-second intervals until warmed to your liking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do you put in a loaded potato?

A classic loaded potato is typically topped with sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and chopped green onions. In our Loaded Potato Meatloaf recipe, we incorporate all of these beloved toppings right into the creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes.

Can you use potato flakes instead of breadcrumbs in meatloaf?

Yes, you can absolutely use potato flakes or mashed potato mix in place of breadcrumbs in a meatloaf recipe. The potato flakes will help bind the meatloaf and add moisture and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the amount used, as potato flakes can be more absorbent than traditional breadcrumbs.

Does meatloaf get covered while cooking?

For our Loaded Potato Meatloaf recipe, we do not recommend covering the meatloaf while it’s baking. Leaving it uncovered allows the top to develop a nice, slightly crispy texture. Covering the meatloaf could make the top soggy and prevent the cheese and potato topping from browning nicely.

Can you use instant mashed potatoes in meatloaf?

While you can use instant mashed potatoes as the topping for this Loaded Potato Meatloaf recipe, we recommend using freshly mashed potatoes for the best texture and flavor. The homemade mashed potatoes will have a creamier, more authentic taste that complements the savory meatloaf perfectly.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Cheesy Bacon Meatloaf
• Loaded Baked Potato Casserole
• Classic Meatloaf with Glaze

Conclusion

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food fusion with our Loaded Potato Meatloaf. This hearty and delicious dish combines the classic flavors of meatloaf with the irresistible toppings of a loaded baked potato, creating a meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings and warm your soul. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this Loaded Potato Meatloaf is sure to be a crowd-pleasing favorite.

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