Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole
Introduction
Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the classic flavors of meatloaf and loaded baked potatoes. This casserole is perfect for a comforting family dinner or a potluck gathering. Packed with ground beef, crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make this mouthwatering Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Potato Layer:
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, ketchup, onion, bell pepper, celery, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Transfer the meatloaf mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and shape it into a loaf shape. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes or until the meatloaf is cooked through.
Step 2: Prepare the Potato Layer
While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the potato layer. Boil the diced potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender. Drain the potatoes and transfer them to a mixing bowl.
Add the sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, melted butter, salt, and black pepper to the boiled potatoes. Mash everything together until well combined and smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and spread the mashed potato mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese over the potato layer. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Variations
While this Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is already bursting with flavors, you can certainly customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
1. Veggie Lover’s Casserole:
Replace the ground beef in the meatloaf with a mixture of finely chopped vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers. This will give the casserole a vegetarian twist while still providing a hearty and flavorful dish.
2. Mexican-Inspired Casserole:
Add a Mexican twist to the casserole by seasoning the ground beef with taco seasoning and adding a can of diced green chilies to the meatloaf mixture. Top the casserole with salsa, diced avocado, and cilantro for a zesty and vibrant meal.
3. Italian-Style Casserole:
Infuse the dish with Italian flavors by adding Italian seasoning, grated Parmesan cheese, and a jar of marinara sauce to the meatloaf mixture. Top the casserole with mozzarella cheese and garnish with fresh basil for a delicious Italian twist.
Tips
- Make sure to finely chop the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic for the meatloaf to ensure even distribution of flavors throughout the dish.
- If you prefer a crispier bacon topping, you can cook the bacon in advance until crispy, crumble it, and then sprinkle it over the casserole during the final few minutes of baking.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste. You can add more or less salt, pepper, or herbs depending on your preference.
- For a creamier potato layer, you can add a splash of milk or cream to the mashed potatoes.
Conclusion
Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together the classic flavors of meatloaf and loaded baked potatoes. With its layers of flavorful meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheese, this casserole is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this recipe is sure to impress. Try out different variations and make it your own. Enjoy this delicious casserole and indulge in its rich and hearty goodness!
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Simply assemble the casserole as instructed, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake it, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as the casserole may take a bit longer to cook if it’s chilled.
2. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole for later use. After assembling the casserole, cover it well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, making sure it’s tightly sealed. Label it with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake it according to the recipe instructions. Note that the texture of the potatoes may be slightly different after freezing and thawing.
3. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground beef in this recipe. Keep in mind that ground turkey has less fat than ground beef, so the meatloaf may be slightly drier. To compensate for the lower fat content, you can add a tablespoon or two of olive oil to the meatloaf mixture to keep it moist.
4. Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead of fresh potatoes?
While fresh potatoes are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use instant mashed potatoes as a time-saving alternative. Prepare the instant mashed potatoes according to the package instructions, but reduce the amount of liquid slightly to make a thicker consistency. Follow the recipe as instructed, layering the meatloaf and instant mashed potatoes, and bake as directed.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use a different type of cheese if you prefer. Cheddar cheese pairs well with this casserole, but you can experiment with other varieties such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss cheese. Feel free to mix and match cheeses to create your own unique flavor combination.
