Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole

There’s something incredibly comforting about the combination of savory meatloaf and creamy mashed potatoes, and this Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole takes that classic pairing to a whole new level. The meatloaf layer is seasoned to perfection, providing a rich and flavorful base, while the mashed potato topping is creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious.

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Potato Layer:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Meatloaf:
   • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
   • Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
   • Press the meat mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Bake the Meatloaf:
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloaf is mostly cooked through.
4. Prepare the Potatoes:
   • While the meatloaf is baking, cook the cubed potatoes in a large pot of boiling salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
   • Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
   • Add sour cream, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Mash until smooth and creamy.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Once the meatloaf is mostly cooked, remove it from the oven.
   • Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meatloaf layer.
   • Sprinkle the additional shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.
6. Bake Again:
   • Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Add Toppings:
   • Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the crumbled bacon and chopped green onions over the top.
8. Serve:
   • Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.