Loaded Potato Meatloaf Dinner: A Hearty Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

If you’re someone who loves classic comfort food—the kind that warms you from the inside out—this Loaded Potato Meatloaf Dinner is about to become your new favorite meal. It’s the best of two comfort classics combined into one: savory meatloaf layered with cheesy mashed potatoes, topped with melty cheese and crispy bacon bits.

This isn’t your grandma’s meatloaf (though we love that too!). This is next-level comfort food that feels both nostalgic and exciting, like meatloaf and a loaded baked potato teamed up for the ultimate dinner.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving something hearty and satisfying, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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What Is Loaded Potato Meatloaf Dinner?

Loaded Potato Meatloaf is exactly what it sounds like—a layered meatloaf casserole where seasoned ground beef forms the base, creamy mashed potatoes create the middle layer, and a topping of cheese, bacon, and green onions gives it that classic “loaded baked potato” finish.

It’s baked all in one pan, sliced like lasagna, and served hot for the ultimate comfort meal. Think meatloaf, shepherd’s pie, and cheesy potato casserole all in one dish.

this Recipe

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines two comfort food favorites into one
• Easy to make in one pan—minimal cleanup
• Perfect for family dinners or potlucks
• Freezer-friendly for make-ahead meals
• Hearty, filling, and super satisfying

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What Does This Meatloaf Taste Like?

Each forkful is loaded with flavor. The meatloaf base is tender, juicy, and savory, made with beef, breadcrumbs, and a hint of Worcestershire for depth. The mashed potato layer is creamy and buttery, with sharp cheddar cheese mixed in.

On top, you get crispy bacon bits and more melted cheese that tie it all together. It’s rich, cheesy, meaty, and completely comforting—everything you want in a cozy homemade dinner.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meatloaf Base:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Potato Layer:

• 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• ¼ cup butter
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or parsley

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Tools You’ll Need

• 9×9 or 8×8-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Potato masher
• Skillet for bacon
• Foil (optional for covering)

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Ingredient Swaps and Additions

• Use ground turkey for a lighter option
• Add jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick
• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream in the potatoes
• Swap cheddar for mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese

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How to Make Loaded Potato Meatloaf Dinner

Step 1: Make the Meatloaf Base

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire, and seasonings. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your baking dish.

Step 2: Bake the Meatloaf

Bake uncovered for 25 minutes. Carefully drain off excess grease if needed.

Step 3: Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the meatloaf bakes, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender (about 15 minutes). Drain and mash with butter, sour cream, and cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the baked meatloaf layer.

Step 5: Add the Toppings

Sprinkle the top with additional cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and green onions or parsley.

Step 6: Bake Again

Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve

Let cool for 5 minutes, then slice and serve warm.

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What to Serve with Loaded Potato Meatloaf

• Green beans or broccoli for a veggie side
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls
• A crisp side salad to lighten things up
• Pickles or relish on the side for extra zing

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Tips for Success

• Use lean ground beef to avoid too much grease
• Mash the potatoes while warm for the best texture
• Don’t overmix the meatloaf base to keep it tender
• Let the casserole rest before slicing for cleaner portions

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Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warmed through.

To freeze, cool completely, then wrap tightly. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the layers and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
You can, but fresh mashed potatoes give the best flavor and texture.

Is this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.

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Conclusion

This Loaded Potato Meatloaf Dinner is comfort food at its finest. It’s hearty, cheesy, meaty, and downright satisfying—the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with big smiles. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy Sunday meal, this recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot.

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Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

Calories: 520
Protein: 32g
Fat: 33g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 780mg

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June 13, 2025 by Melissa