The aroma of the Loaded Potato Meatloaf fills your kitchen, wafting through the air like a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture this: a hearty meatloaf loaded with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and zesty seasonings, all baked to golden perfection. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for family dinners or impressing friends at a gathering. For more inspiration, check out this Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe.
This recipe isn’t just about satisfying your taste buds; it’s steeped in nostalgia. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; they were skeptical at first but ended up devouring every last bite! Whether it’s a weekday meal or a weekend feast, this Loaded Potato Meatloaf promises an explosion of flavors that will make you want to whip it up again and again. tzatziki chicken naan pizza.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time cooking.
- The delightful flavor profile combines savory meat with creamy potatoes, making every bite irresistible.
- Visually appealing, it presents beautifully on any dinner table, sure to impress guests.
- Versatile enough to serve as leftovers or transform into sandwiches for lunch the next day.
Ingredients for Loaded Potato Meatloaf
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef or Turkey: Choose lean ground beef or turkey for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
- Mashed Potatoes: You can use leftover mashed potatoes or whip up a fresh batch; either way, they add creaminess.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar is classic here, but feel free to experiment with your favorite melting cheese for extra flavor.
- Onion: A finely chopped onion adds depth and sweetness; go for yellow onions for the best results.
- Garlic Powder: This brings out robust flavors throughout the meatloaf without overwhelming it.
- Ketchup: A must-have for both flavor and glaze; it brings everything together in perfect harmony.
- Breadcrumbs: These help bind the ingredients while adding texture; use plain or seasoned as per your preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Loaded Potato Meatloaf
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab your trusty baking dish and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent any sticky situations later.
Step 2: Mix the Meat Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground beef or turkey with chopped onion, garlic powder, breadcrumbs, and half of the ketchup. Get in there with your hands (it’s messy but fun) until everything is well blended.
Step 3: Add the Mashed Potatoes
Fold in those creamy mashed potatoes and shredded cheese like you’re creating a culinary masterpiece. This is where magic happens—trust me!
Step 4: Shape Your Meatloaf
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish and shape it into a loaf. Drizzle the remaining ketchup over the top like a beautiful red blanket.
Step 5: Bake and Relax
Pop that beauty into your preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes or until cooked through (internal temperature should reach at least 160°F/70°C). Use this time to clean up or maybe even dance around your kitchen!
Step 6: Serve Up Some Happiness
Remove from the oven and let it rest for about ten minutes before slicing. This allows all those delicious juices to settle. Serve with additional ketchup on the side if you’re feeling saucy.
This Loaded Potato Meatloaf isn’t just food; it’s an experience waiting to unfold on your dinner table! Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- This delicious Loaded Potato Meatloaf combines the heartiness of meatloaf with the comfort of loaded baked potatoes.
- It’s a family favorite that invites endless customization.
- Perfect for dinner or meal prep, this dish is sure to impress both kids and adults alike!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you prepare the meat mixture. Sauté onions and garlic first, then mix them with ground beef and mashed potatoes. Form into a loaf and bake until golden brown.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in ground turkey or lamb for a different flavor profile. You can also add shredded cheese or chopped green onions to the meat mixture for an extra kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly moist meatloaf, use a combination of ground beef and mashed potatoes as they balance flavors beautifully.
- Let the meatloaf rest for at least ten minutes before slicing; this helps retain juices.
- Don’t skip the sautéing step; it adds depth to your dish!
The first time I made Loaded Potato Meatloaf, my kids devoured it faster than I could say “seconds,” and my husband declared it a weekly repeat!
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for Loaded Potato Meatloaf?
To make Loaded Potato Meatloaf, you will need ground beef, mashed potatoes, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, and your choice of spices. For the loaded aspect, incorporate shredded cheese, chopped green onions, and sour cream. Ensure that all ingredients avoid pork and alcohol. hearty slow cooker beef chili Instead of traditional gelling agents, you can use plant-based options if your recipe requires thickening or binding. This combination creates a flavorful dish that’s both hearty and satisfying.
How long does it take to bake Loaded Potato Meatloaf?
Baking Loaded Potato Meatloaf typically takes about 1 hour at 350°F (175°C). Preheat your oven while preparing the meatloaf mixture. Once it’s shaped in a loaf pan or baking dish, place it in the oven and let it cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). Allowing it to rest for a few minutes after baking will enhance its flavors and make slicing easier.
Can I use other meats for Loaded Potato Meatloaf?
Absolutely! While the classic recipe often includes ground beef, you can easily substitute ground turkey or lamb for a different flavor profile. Each type of meat brings its own unique taste to the dish. ground chicken caprese recipe Make sure to adjust cooking times based on your chosen meat’s fat content to ensure that your Loaded Potato Meatloaf is tender and juicy.
What are some side dishes that pair well with Loaded Potato Meatloaf?
Loaded Potato Meatloaf pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a healthy touch. A fresh salad can also complement the heartiness of the meatloaf. For something more filling, try mashed cauliflower or roasted sweet potatoes to balance out the meal while keeping everything deliciously cohesive.
Conclusion for Loaded Potato Meatloaf:
Loaded Potato Meatloaf offers a delightful twist on traditional meatloaf by incorporating creamy mashed potatoes and savory toppings. This recipe is versatile, allowing substitutions like ground turkey or lamb while avoiding pork products and alcohol. bruschetta pasta salad Baking it at 350°F ensures a perfectly cooked dish every time. Serve it alongside steamed veggies or salads for a well-rounded meal that satisfies both hearty appetites and taste buds alike. Enjoy this comforting dish any day of the week!

Loaded Potato Meatloaf
Loaded Potato Meatloaf is a comforting twist on the classic dish, combining savory ground meat with creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheese. Baked to golden perfection, this hearty meatloaf is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. With its nostalgic flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup ketchup (divided)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, mix together ground meat, chopped onion, garlic powder, breadcrumbs, and half of the ketchup until well combined.
- Gently fold in the mashed potatoes and shredded cheese until evenly distributed.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and shape it into a loaf. Drizzle with the remaining ketchup.
- Bake for about 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Allow resting for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 slice (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: For added flavor, sauté onions before mixing them into the meat mixture. Feel free to substitute ground turkey or lamb as an alternative protein source. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.