Classic Comfort Loaded Potato Meatloaf

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This Classic Comfort Loaded Potato Meatloaf is the ultimate fusion of two beloved comfort foods—meatloaf and loaded mashed potatoes. It’s hearty, savory, cheesy, and satisfying enough to bring the whole family to the table. Imagine a layer of seasoned ground beef, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, crisp bacon, and gooey melted cheese all baked into one cozy casserole-style dish.

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Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a potluck, this meatloaf casserole hits the mark. It’s a make-ahead dream and reheats beautifully. Add a fresh side salad or some roasted green beans, and you’ve got a full, comforting meal ready to serve.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For this recipe, use 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture. Leaner cuts can be used, but they might not yield as juicy a base. If you opt for something leaner, consider adding a splash of beef broth to the mixture to keep it moist.

Ingredients for the Classic Comfort Loaded Potato Meatloaf

  • Ground Beef – The hearty foundation, seasoned and cooked to juicy perfection.
  • Mashed Potatoes – Creamy, buttery potatoes that sit beautifully on top.
  • Cheddar Cheese – For that gooey, melty finish and added richness.
  • Bacon – Crumbled and crisp, it delivers crunch and smokiness.
  • Chives or Green Onions – These add a burst of freshness to balance the richness.
  • Egg – Helps bind the meatloaf layer together.
  • Breadcrumbs – Provide structure to the beef layer.
  • Garlic and Onion Powder – Boosts the savory flavor profile.
  • Milk and Butter – Essential for smooth, luscious mashed potatoes.

How To Make the Classic Comfort Loaded Potato Meatloaf

Step 1: Prep the Beef Base

Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, mix ground beef with egg, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Press the mixture evenly into a greased baking dish.

Step 2: Bake the Meatloaf Layer

Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the beef is nearly cooked through. Drain any excess grease from the dish to prevent sogginess.

Step 3: Layer the Mashed Potatoes

While the beef is baking, prepare your mashed potatoes. Boil peeled and diced potatoes until fork-tender, then mash with butter, milk, and a pinch of salt. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the baked meat layer.

Step 4: Top with Cheese and Bacon

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes, then top with crispy bacon bits. Return to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and top with freshly chopped chives or green onions for color and freshness. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.


How to Serve and Store This Loaded Meatloaf

This dish is best served warm, straight from the oven. Use a large serving spoon or spatula to lift generous portions onto plates. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. It also freezes well—just cool completely and wrap tightly.

What to Serve With Loaded Potato Meatloaf?

Roasted Green Beans

A bright, crunchy contrast that lightens up the plate.

Garlic Bread

Perfect for scooping up every last bit of cheesy potato goodness.

Creamy Coleslaw

Adds a cool and tangy crunch.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Sweet and savory roasted carrots bring balance.

Classic Garden Salad

Simple greens with a zippy vinaigrette add freshness.


Want More Comfort Food Ideas?

If you love this savory fusion, you’ll probably dig into these next:

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Tried it with a spicy twist or a different cheese combo? I’d love to hear how you made it your own—drop your variation in the comments!

Need more daily dinner ideas and cozy meals? Browse through my Pinterest page and discover your next family favorite from SavorQueen.com.


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Classic Comfort Loaded Potato Meatloaf

Classic Comfort Loaded Potato Meatloaf


  • Author: Julia Walton
  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

If you love cozy, filling meals that wrap you up in comfort, this Classic Comfort Loaded Potato Meatloaf will hit the spot. It blends hearty meatloaf with buttery mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon for the ultimate crowd-pleasing dinner. This easy recipe makes a delicious option for quick dinners, comfort food cravings, or meal prepping for the week. Whether you’re after an easy recipe, dinner ideas, or just hearty food ideas, this dish fits the bill perfectly.


Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

1 large egg

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

4 cups mashed potatoes

1/2 cup milk

1/4 cup butter

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

2 tbsp chopped chives or green onions


Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish.

2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Press beef mixture evenly into the prepared dish and bake for 20–25 minutes.

4. While baking, prepare mashed potatoes with milk, butter, and salt to taste.

5. Drain grease from the beef, then spread mashed potatoes on top.

6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon evenly over the potatoes.

7. Return to oven for 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Garnish with chopped chives or green onions.

9. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For creamier mashed potatoes, use warm milk and butter when mixing.

Want extra crisp on top? Broil for 2 minutes after adding the cheese.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 35g
  • Saturated Fat: 16g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 105mg

Keywords: loaded meatloaf, comfort food, easy dinner, cheesy potato casserole

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