Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole

Looking for a hearty and delicious meal to satisfy your family’s hunger? This Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole is the perfect mix of comfort food!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups diced potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup cooked and chopped bacon

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
• In a bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, ketchup, BBQ sauce, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Press mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
• Layer diced potatoes on top of the meatloaf mixture and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
• Cover dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and cheese is melted.
• Top with chopped green onions and bacon before serving.

Popular questions:

• Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe for a lighter version.

• Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.

• Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

• Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Adding vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or peas can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish.

• What can I serve with this meatloaf casserole?

Side dishes like a green salad, steamed veggies, or garlic bread make great accompaniments to this meal.

• Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for future meals.

• Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats as a substitute for the breadcrumbs in the meatloaf mixture.

• How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapenos to the meatloaf mixture for some heat.

• Can I use store-bought mashed potatoes instead of diced potatoes?

Yes, you can use store-bought mashed potatoes for a quicker version of this casserole.

• How can I make this dish more kid-friendly?

You can hide extra veggies in the meatloaf mixture or serve with a side of ketchup or ranch dressing for dipping.

Helpful tips:

• Feel free to add your favorite seasonings to the meatloaf mixture for added flavor.
• For a crispy texture, broil the casserole for a few minutes after baking.
• You can customize this casserole by topping it with sour cream, salsa, or avocado slices before serving.
• To make this dish healthier, use lean ground beef or turkey and reduced-fat cheese.
• Experiment with different types of potatoes like sweet potatoes or Yukon gold for a twist on the classic recipe.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or black beans.
• This casserole can be a great option for meal prep – divide into individual portions for easy grab-and-go meals during the week.
• Add a sprinkle of paprika or chili powder on top for extra flavor and color.
• You can make this casserole in a slow cooker – simply layer the ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
• Don’t forget to let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Expert Secrets:

• Cut the potatoes into uniform sizes for even cooking.
• Let the meatloaf mixture rest before pressing it into the baking dish to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ground beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F for safe consumption.
• For a smokier flavor, use smoked paprika or chipotle powder in the meatloaf mixture.
• Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can add a pop of freshness to the finished dish.
• To prevent the cheese from burning, cover the casserole with foil for the first part of the baking time.
• Drizzle some extra BBQ sauce on top of the casserole before serving for an added touch of flavor.
• For a creamy texture, mix some sour cream or cream cheese into the mashed potatoes before layering onto the meatloaf.
• For a crunchy topping, sprinkle some crushed potato chips or French-fried onions on top before baking.
• Leftovers can be transformed into delicious sandwiches – simply reheat the casserole and serve between two slices of bread or in a wrap.