This Loaded Potato Meatloaf recipe combines two beloved comfort foods into one hearty dish. The juicy meatloaf, packed with flavor, pairs wonderfully with creamy, cheesy loaded potatoes. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is sure to impress with its unique blend of textures and flavors. Even the pickiest eaters will fall in love with this satisfying meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Comfort Food: The combination of meatloaf and loaded potatoes creates a satisfying meal that warms the heart.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
- Versatile Meal Option: Ideal for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or even potlucks; it works for any gathering.
- Kid-Friendly: The familiar flavors of meatloaf and cheesy potatoes make this dish a favorite among children.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the meatloaf and potatoes in advance and bake them when ready to serve.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Meatloaf pan or baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Potato masher or fork
- Oven
Importance of Each Tool
- Meatloaf pan: Helps shape the meatloaf evenly and retains its juices for a moist result.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
- Potato masher: Makes mashing cooked potatoes easy and quick, ensuring a creamy texture.
Ingredients
For the Loaded Potato Meatloaf
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Loaded Potatoes
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 3 tbsp butter
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Extra shredded cheese for topping
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Loaded Potato Meatloaf
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your loaded potato meatloaf cooks evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
* 1 lb ground beef
* 1 small onion, finely chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup breadcrumbs
* 1 large egg
* ¼ cup milk
* 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
* 1 tbsp ketchup
* 1 tsp dried oregano
* 1 tsp dried basil
* 1 tsp salt
* ½ tsp black pepper
Mix until just combined.
Step 3: Shape and Bake the Meatloaf
Shape the mixture into a loaf form. Place it on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan. Bake for about 40–45 minutes or until its internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Allow it to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Step 4: Prepare the Potatoes
While the meatloaf bakes, scrub the russet potatoes and pierce them with a fork. Bake them in the oven for about 45 minutes or microwave them for about 8–10 minutes until tender. Once cooked, cut each potato in half and scoop out the insides into a bowl.
Step 5: Make Loaded Potato Filling
Mash the scooped-out potato with:
* 3 tbsp butter
½ cup sour cream
Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir in:
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup chopped green onions
Mix until well combined.
Step 6: Stuff Potatoes and Bake Again
Stuff the mashed potato mixture back into each potato skin. Top each filled potato with extra shredded cheese. Bake in the oven for an additional 5–10 minutes or until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
Step 7: Serve It Up
Serve slices of meatloaf alongside your loaded potatoes. Garnish with additional green onions or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Enjoy your delightful meal!
How to Serve Loaded Potato Meatloaf
Serving Loaded Potato Meatloaf is an easy way to impress your family or guests. This hearty dish combines the best of both worlds, making it a delightful centerpiece for any meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Classic Comfort
- With Gravy: Drizzle your favorite brown gravy over the meatloaf for an extra layer of flavor.
- With Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy richness that complements the meat and potatoes.
Fresh Greens
- Side Salad: Pair with a light green salad topped with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the heaviness of the meatloaf.
- Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy crunch.
Flavorful Additions
- Pickles or Relish: Adding pickles on the side brings a tangy contrast that cuts through the richness.
- Hot Sauce: For those who like it spicy, serve with a side of hot sauce for an extra kick.
How to Perfect Loaded Potato Meatloaf
To ensure your Loaded Potato Meatloaf turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Bold Ingredients: Use high-quality ground beef for better flavor and texture in your meatloaf.
- Moisture Matters: Don’t skip the milk; it keeps the meatloaf moist and tender.
- Season Generously: Taste and adjust seasoning as you mix. Seasoning is key for delicious results.
- Rest Before Slicing: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps retain juices and makes for cleaner cuts.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses in your stuffed potatoes to find your favorite combination.
Best Side Dishes for Loaded Potato Meatloaf
Completing your meal with the right sides can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some delicious options that pair well with Loaded Potato Meatloaf.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting addition.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add a nutty flavor and great texture.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the savory flavors of meatloaf beautifully.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances out rich flavors.
- Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans pairs nicely with savory meatloaf.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that offers a light side option without sacrificing flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Loaded Potato Meatloaf can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to be aware of.
- Skipping the resting time: Allowing the meatloaf to rest after baking helps it retain its juices. Cutting into it too soon can result in a dry texture.
- Overmixing the meat mixture: Mixing the ingredients too vigorously can lead to a dense meatloaf. Combine them just until everything is incorporated for a lighter texture.
- Not seasoning adequately: A lack of proper seasoning can make your dish bland. Ensure you taste and adjust the salt and pepper before baking.
- Using cold ingredients: If your ingredients, especially the egg and milk, are cold from the fridge, they can affect the mixing process. Let them sit at room temperature for better incorporation.
- Underbaking or overbaking: Using an inaccurate oven temperature can lead to undercooked or dried-out meatloaf. Always check with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 160°F (71°C).
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Loaded Potato Meatloaf
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Loaded Potato Meatloaf
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Cover and cook for about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Loaded Potato Meatloaf?
Loaded Potato Meatloaf combines classic meatloaf with stuffed potatoes, bringing together savory beef and creamy potato flavors.
Can I customize the ingredients?
Yes! You can add different vegetables, cheeses, or spices according to your preferences for more variety.
How do I know when my meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F (71°C) when fully cooked. This ensures it’s safe to eat.
Can I make Loaded Potato Meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking or freeze it for later use.
What sides go well with Loaded Potato Meatloaf?
Some great sides include steamed vegetables, salad, or even garlic bread to round out your meal.
Final Thoughts
Loaded Potato Meatloaf is not just delicious; it’s also versatile enough to suit any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe offers plenty of room for customization. Don’t hesitate to try different toppings or side dishes that complement this comforting dish!
Loaded Potato Meatloaf
Loaded Potato Meatloaf is a delightful fusion of two classic comfort foods, bringing together the juicy, flavorful goodness of meatloaf with the creamy, cheesy indulgence of loaded potatoes. This hearty dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, making it a surefire hit even among picky eaters. With its satisfying textures and rich flavors, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table.
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 4 large russet potatoes
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan. Bake for about 40–45 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- While baking, scrub and pierce potatoes; bake until tender (about 45 minutes) or microwave for quicker cooking (8–10 minutes).
- Once cooked, scoop potato insides into a bowl and mix with butter, sour cream, cheddar cheese, green onions, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff the potato skins with the mixture and top with extra cheese. Bake again for 5–10 minutes until melted.
- Serve slices of meatloaf alongside loaded potatoes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: For added flavor variation, experiment with different cheeses in your potato filling. Let your meatloaf rest before slicing for clean cuts and juiciness.
