Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole

Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole: A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Dish

Looking for a cozy and satisfying meal that combines the classic flavors of meatloaf with the comforting goodness of loaded potatoes? Look no further than Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole! This delicious casserole is perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings, and it’s sure to become a new favorite. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of making this mouthwatering dish, along with cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions for those following specific diets.

Ingredients:

Before we start cooking, let’s gather all the ingredients we’ll need:

• Meat:
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 1/2 lbs ground beef or turkey, lean
• Produce:
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic
  • 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup diced white onion
• Refrigerated:
  • 1 large egg
• Condiments:
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Baking & Spices:
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
• Bread & Baked Goods:
  • 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs
• Dairy:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/3 cup cottage cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

Instructions:

Now, let’s dive into the cooking process:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Prepare Potatoes: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the thinly sliced potatoes for about 5 minutes, just until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
3. Cook Meatloaf Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, minced garlic, diced onion, egg, bread crumbs, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Assemble Casserole: Spread the meatloaf mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with the cooked and drained potatoes, spreading them out in an even layer. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the potatoes.
5. Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until golden brown. Gradually whisk in the milk or half-and-half until smooth. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cottage cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Bake: Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the casserole. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with dollops of sour cream and chopped chives or green onions if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

Here are some tips and variations to enhance your Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole:

• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture for a spicy kick.
• Add Vegetables: Mix in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots to the meatloaf mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
• Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese for the sauce, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Gouda, for a unique flavor profile.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here’s how you can modify the recipe:

Keto Version:

• Replace Potatoes: Substitute the sliced potatoes with thinly sliced turnips or radishes for a low-carb alternative.
• Use Low-Carb Condiments: Choose sugar-free barbecue sauce and Worcestershire sauce to keep the carb count low.

Low-Carb Version:

• Omit Bread Crumbs: Skip the bread crumbs in the meatloaf mixture and use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead.
• Reduce Dairy: Use full-fat dairy products and less milk or half-and-half in the cheese sauce to lower the carb content.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Let’s address some common questions about making Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole:

Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave.

Q: Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef? A: Yes, ground chicken or turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe.

Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a cozy family dinner. With its layers of tender potatoes, savory meatloaf, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese sauce, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Plus, with keto and low-carb variations available, everyone can enjoy this delicious comfort food. Give this recipe a try and indulge in its irresistible flavors!

Now that you have the recipe and all the tips you need, it’s time to head to the kitchen and start cooking up some comfort! Enjoy every bite of this hearty and flavorful casserole.