Delicious Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole (Comfort Food at Its Best)
If you’re craving a hearty, family-friendly dinner that combines two classic comfort foods into one unforgettable dish, this Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is exactly what you need. Juicy, flavorful meatloaf forms the base, topped with creamy, buttery mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and all the best “loaded potato” toppings. It’s cozy, filling, and guaranteed to disappear fast.
This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday dinners, or anytime you want a meal that feels like a warm hug. It’s also a fantastic make-ahead dish and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers.
Why You’ll Love This Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole
Two comfort food classics in one dish
Budget-friendly ingredients
Great for meal prep and leftovers
Kid-approved and crowd-pleasing
Customizable with your favorite toppings
If you love traditional meatloaf and loaded mashed potatoes, this casserole will quickly become a regular on your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Meatloaf Layer
1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
2 large eggs
½ cup milk
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
⅓ cup ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Mashed Potato Layer
3 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
½ cup butter
¾ cup milk or heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Loaded Toppings
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
3 green onions, sliced
Sour cream (optional, for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Meatloaf Base
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Mix just until combined—don’t overmix, or the meatloaf may become dense.
Press the mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until partially cooked and juices begin to form. Carefully drain excess grease. - Make the Creamy Mashed Potatoes
While the meatloaf bakes, boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain well and mash with butter and milk until smooth and creamy. Season generously with salt and pepper. - Assemble the Casserole
Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf layer. Use a spatula to smooth the top for an even bake.
Sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar cheese, followed by crumbled bacon. - Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and lightly golden.
For a crispier top, broil for 2–3 minutes, watching closely. - Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes. Sprinkle with green onions and serve with a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Tips for the Best Meatloaf Potato Casserole
Don’t overmix the meatloaf – this keeps it tender and juicy
Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for the creamiest mash
Add cheese inside the mashed potatoes for extra richness
Swap ground beef with ground turkey or a beef/pork blend
Add corn or peas between layers for a full one-dish meal
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze fully cooked and cooled casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions.
What to Serve With Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole
This casserole is hearty on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with:
A crisp green salad
Steamed green beans or broccoli
Dinner rolls or garlic bread
Final Thoughts
This Delicious Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table fast. It’s comforting, satisfying, and packed with classic flavors that never go out of style. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a reliable dish to share, this casserole delivers every single time.
Save this recipe, because once you make it, you’ll be asked for it again and again 😋