If you're looking for a hearty, satisfying dish that combines two classic comfort foods into one delicious meal, then Loaded Potato Meatloaf is your answer! This innovative recipe features a savory meatloaf filled with creamy, loaded mashed potatoes, making it a delightful centerpiece for any dinner table. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, this dish is sure to please the whole family.

Imagine slicing into a moist meatloaf, revealing a generous layer of fluffy mashed potatoes infused with cheese, bacon, and chives. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible, making it perfect for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep for the week ahead. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that transforms traditional meatloaf into something extraordinary!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful and Hearty: Packed with savory flavors from the meatloaf and the creamy, cheesy potatoes.
One-Pot Wonder: This dish combines meat and potatoes, making cleanup a breeze.
Customizable: Easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, such as adding veggies or different cheeses.
Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.

Ingredients List

To create your delicious Loaded Potato Meatloaf, gather the following ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

For the Loaded Mashed Potatoes:

2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1/4 cup green onions or chives, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For precise measurements, please refer to the recipe card.

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Boil Potatoes: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
Mix in Add-Ins: Stir in the cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Mixture

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 3: Assemble the Meatloaf

Layer the Meatloaf: Press half of the meat mixture into the bottom of the prepared loaf pan. Top with the loaded mashed potatoes, spreading evenly. Finally, add the remaining meat mixture on top, pressing down gently to seal.

Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
Rest: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 5: Serve

Slice and Enjoy: Serve warm, garnished with additional green onions or chives if desired. Enjoy with your favorite sides!

Variations & Substitutions

Vegetable Addition: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or carrots into the meat mixture for added nutrition.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mashed potatoes for some heat.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storage: Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze slices of meatloaf wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf and assemble it a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What can I serve with loaded potato meatloaf?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or even some crusty bread.

Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter version of this loaded potato meatloaf.

How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption.

Conclusion

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Loaded Potato Meatloaf! This hearty dish is not only delicious but also a fun way to enjoy two beloved comfort foods in one. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

We’d love to hear how your Loaded Potato Meatloaf turns out! Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let us know if you tried any variations. For more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration, visit https://eldralys.com/ and keep exploring the joys of cooking! Enjoy every flavorful bite!