Ultimate Loaded Potato Meatloaf

If comfort food is what you crave, the Ultimate Loaded Potato Meatloaf is here to satisfy every bite. This hearty meatloaf combines seasoned ground beef with savory spices and is topped with creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheese, and crisp toppings. Think of it as a complete dinner in one delicious slice—perfect for family dinners or make-ahead meals.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
All-in-One Meal – Protein, carbs, and veggies all packed into one dish.
Rich & Comforting – Creamy mashed potato topping and cheesy goodness.
Great for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day.
Family Favorite – Kid-approved and crowd-pleasing.
Simple & Satisfying – Easy to prepare and incredibly filling.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meatloaf:
1½ lbs ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 eggs
¼ cup milk
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried parsley
½ tsp smoked paprika

For the Mashed Potato Topping:
2½ cups mashed potatoes (about 3–4 medium potatoes)
2 tbsp butter
¼ cup milk
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)

Toppings:
¼ cup crumbled cooked turkey bacon or beef bacon
¼ cup green onions, chopped
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Sour cream (optional, for serving)

Tools You’ll Need
Mixing bowls
Loaf pan or baking dish
Potato masher
Skillet (for bacon if not using pre-cooked)
Oven-safe spatula or spoon
Meat thermometer (optional but helpful)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a loaf pan or line with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.
Mix until everything is just combined. Don’t overmix to avoid a dense texture.

Step 3: Shape and Bake
Press the meatloaf mixture into the loaf pan, smoothing the top.
Bake for 35–40 minutes until the center is nearly cooked through.

Step 4: Prepare Mashed Potatoes
While the meatloaf is baking, boil potatoes in salted water until tender.
Mash with butter, milk, salt, pepper, and shredded cheddar cheese.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Top with Potatoes and Cheese
Remove the meatloaf from the oven.
Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
Sprinkle with additional cheddar cheese and return to the oven.

Step 6: Finish Baking
Bake for another 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes for a crispier top.

Step 7: Add Toppings and Serve
Sprinkle crumbled bacon and green onions over the finished loaf.
Slice and serve with a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Tips for the Best Meatloaf
Use Fresh Mashed Potatoes – They provide the best texture and flavor.
Don’t Overmix the Meat – Keeps it tender and juicy.
Let It Rest – Resting for 5–10 minutes before slicing helps it hold together.
Customize Your Toppings – Add jalapeños, crispy onions, or diced tomatoes.
Check Internal Temp – Meatloaf should reach 160°F (71°C) in the center.

Serving Suggestions
With a Side Salad – A light green salad balances the richness.
Steamed Broccoli – Adds color and nutrition to your plate.
Roasted Veggies – Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus pair well.
Dinner Rolls – Great for soaking up any extra sauce or gravy.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual slices for 60–90 seconds, or until warm.
Add a splash of water or broth before reheating to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes! Assemble and refrigerate the uncooked meatloaf for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. What’s the best potato to use for mashing?
   Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes give the best creamy texture.
3. Can I make it dairy-free?
   Use non-dairy milk and skip the cheese or use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make it gluten-friendly.

Final Thoughts
This Ultimate Loaded Potato Meatloaf is a dream come true for anyone who loves layered flavors and hearty meals. With its savory meat base, creamy potato topping, and cheesy, bacon-loaded finish, it’s the ultimate comfort food dinner that hits all the right notes. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, this meatloaf is sure to become a household favorite.

Try it tonight and bring the comfort of a loaded baked potato and a classic meatloaf together in one irresistible dish!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 410 | Protein: 24g | Carbohydrates: 22g | Fat: 26g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 520mg

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