Get ready to redefine comfort food with a dish that brings together two undeniable favorites: classic meatloaf and decadent loaded mashed potatoes! Our Ultimate Loaded Potato Meatloaf is an absolute game-changer, transforming ordinary dinner into an extraordinary experience. Imagine a perfectly seasoned, tender meatloaf, encasing a hidden treasure of creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes studded with savory bacon and fresh chives. It's a symphony of textures and flavors that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds!
This recipe isn't just about combining ingredients; it's about crafting a satisfying, wholesome meal that feels both gourmet and incredibly homey. Whether you're planning a cozy family dinner or looking for a show-stopping dish for a gathering, this loaded potato meatloaf delivers every time. It's simple enough for an experienced home cook, but impressive enough to earn rave reviews. Let's get cooking!
Why This Loaded Potato Meatloaf Will Be Your New Favorite
- Double the Comfort: Enjoy the rich, savory goodness of meatloaf and the creamy delight of loaded mashed potatoes in one forkful.
- Family Pleaser: A dish that appeals to all ages, making mealtime stress-free and delicious.
- Easy Customization: Simple to adapt with your favorite cheese, herbs, or even a different type of ground meat.
- Hearty & Satisfying: Designed to fill you up and leave you feeling content, perfect for colder evenings or active days.
Essential Ingredients You'll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this magnificent meal. Here's what you'll need to make your own batch of Loaded Potato Meatloaf:
For the Robust Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or a blend of beef and pork for extra flavor)
- 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 Creamy 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
Step-by-Step Instructions for Culinary Perfection
Step 1: Begin with the Mashed Potatoes
- Step 1: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Step 2: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
- Step 3: Stir in the cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions. Set aside.
Step 2: Craft the Flavorful Meatloaf Mixture
- Step 4: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
- Step 5: 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. For more meatloaf inspiration, check out our Ultimate Comfort: Savory Meatloaf with Creamy Mashed Potatoes and Cheese.
Step 3: Expertly Assemble Your Meatloaf
- Step 6: Press half of the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared loaf pan. Top this layer with the prepared loaded mashed potatoes, spreading them smoothly. Finally, carefully add the remaining meat mixture on top, pressing down gently to fully seal the potato layer inside.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
- Step 7: 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).
- Step 8: Once baked, allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
- Step 9: Slice the meatloaf and serve warm, garnished with additional green onions or chives if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or additional steamed vegetables.
Tips and Creative Variations
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or a dash of hot sauce to the potatoes for a subtle kick.
- Herb Power: Fresh rosemary or thyme can elevate the meatloaf's aroma and flavor.
- Cheesy Swaps: Monterey Jack or a smoky Gouda can be excellent alternatives to cheddar in the mashed potatoes.
- Add a Glaze: A simple ketchup-brown sugar glaze brushed on during the last 15 minutes of baking adds a lovely tangy-sweet finish.
- Explore More Potato Goodness: If you love loaded potato dishes, you might also enjoy our recipe for Loaded Baked Potato Casserole!
Storing and Reheating Your Masterpiece
Leftovers of this Loaded Potato Meatloaf are fantastic! Store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Individual slices can also be microwaved for 1-2 minutes.
Conclusion
Our Ultimate Loaded Potato Meatloaf is more than just a meal; it's a culinary hug that brings joy to the dinner table. This recipe offers the perfect balance of savory meatiness and creamy, cheesy potato goodness, making it an instant classic in your home. It’s a testament to how combining simple, beloved ingredients can create something truly special and memorable.
Don't hesitate to make this delightful dish tonight! Share your experiences and any creative twists you add in the comments below. For more delicious and comforting recipes, keep exploring Eldralys.com!
FAQs
Can I prepare Loaded Potato Meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the meatloaf up to a day in advance. Simply cover it tightly and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining!
What are some good side dishes to serve with Loaded Potato Meatloaf?
Since this dish is already packed with meat and potatoes, a light side works best. Consider steamed green beans, a fresh garden salad, roasted carrots, or a simple side of collard greens to complement the rich flavors.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For a lighter twist, feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Ensure you adjust cooking times if needed, as leaner meats might cook slightly faster. The flavors of the loaded potatoes will still shine through beautifully.
How can I check if my meatloaf is fully cooked?
The safest way to check for doneness is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the meatloaf, ensuring it doesn't touch the potato filling. The internal temperature should reach 160u00b0F (70u00b0C) for ground beef.
Ultimate Loaded Potato Meatloaf
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: High-Protein
Description
A comforting and hearty meatloaf stuffed with creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes, bacon, and chives.
Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt (for meatloaf)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (for meatloaf)
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
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 potatoes)
Instructions
Step 1: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Stir in the cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions. Set aside.
Step 4: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
Step 5: 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 6: Press half of the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared loaf pan. Top this layer with the prepared loaded mashed potatoes, spreading them smoothly. Finally, carefully add the remaining meat mixture on top, pressing down gently to fully seal the potato layer inside.
Step 7: 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).
Step 8: Once baked, allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Step 9: Slice the meatloaf and serve warm, garnished with additional green onions or chives if desired. Enjoy with your favorite sides!
Notes
For best results, do not overmix the meatloaf mixture, as this can lead to a tough texture. Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing is crucial for juicy, tender results.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
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