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- 1 lb ground beef - 1/2 lb ground turkey or ground chicken - 1 cup plain breadcrumbs - 1 large egg - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper These main ingredients form the heart of your Loaded Meatloaf Mashed Potato Bake. The ground beef and turkey bring rich flavor and texture. Breadcrumbs help bind everything together, while the egg adds moisture. Onions and garlic give a tasty base, and the seasonings round out the dish. - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (optional, for added flavor) - 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped (for garnish) - 1/2 cup milk - 1/2 cup sour cream The toppings and garnishes make this dish even more special. Cheddar cheese melts beautifully, adding creaminess and a savory bite. Bacon adds a crunchy element and a smoky flavor. Green onions bring freshness and color. Milk and sour cream mix into the mashed potatoes for a smooth, creamy texture. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps the meatloaf cook evenly. In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef and 1/2 pound of ground turkey or chicken. Add 1 cup of plain breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, 1 medium onion (finely chopped), 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix everything well, using your hands or a sturdy spoon, until the ingredients blend nicely. Next, grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of oil. Spread the meat mixture evenly in the dish. Press it down slightly to form a smooth layer. Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This initial cooking helps the meatloaf set and develop great flavor. While the meatloaf bakes, prepare your mashed potatoes. If you make them from scratch, blend in 1/2 cup of milk and 1/2 cup of sour cream for a creamy texture. After 30 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spread the prepared mashed potatoes over the top with a spatula. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. If you like, add 1 cup of crumbled bacon for extra flavor. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 25-30 minutes. Look for melted, bubbly cheese that is golden brown. Once done, let it cool for about 10 minutes. Drizzle barbecue sauce on top and garnish with finely chopped green onions. Slice and serve warm. To keep your meatloaf juicy, eggs and breadcrumbs are key. The egg binds the meat and adds moisture. Breadcrumbs soak up juices and keep the meatloaf from being dry. You can also add a splash of milk or some grated cheese for extra moisture. For texture, consider mixing in grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots. They add moisture and nutrients. Another great option is adding finely diced bell peppers. They boost flavor and give a nice crunch. For creamy mashed potatoes, use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. Boil them until tender, then mash with milk and sour cream. This mix makes them rich and smooth. If you're short on time, high-quality store-bought mashed potatoes are great too. Just warm them up and mix in a bit of milk for extra creaminess. Choosing the right cheese makes a big difference. I recommend sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. You can also try mozzarella for a gooey texture. Feel free to get creative with sauces. A drizzle of barbecue sauce or hot sauce adds a fun kick. You could also sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for extra flavor. Green onions not only add taste but also make your dish look vibrant! Pro Tips Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your meatloaf is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption. Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to switch up the cheeses and toppings based on your preferences. Try using mozzarella, feta, or even a spicy pepper jack for a unique twist! Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble the meatloaf and mashed potatoes, then cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes on the baking time. Experiment with Add-ins: Enhance the flavor by adding ingredients like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even diced jalapeños into the meat mixture for a little kick! {{image_4}} You can use different ground meats for the Loaded Meatloaf Mashed Potato Bake. This gives you fun options. Try ground pork for a sweeter taste. Ground lamb adds a rich flavor. You can also choose plant-based meat for a healthy twist. Each option will change the dish’s flavor, but they all work great. If you need dairy-free or gluten-free options, it’s easy. For dairy-free mashed potatoes, swap milk and sour cream with dairy-free versions. Use almond milk or coconut milk for creaminess. For the meatloaf, check labels on breadcrumbs. You can find gluten-free breadcrumbs at many stores. This way, everyone can enjoy this tasty meal. Boost the flavors by adding spices or herbs. Try a dash of paprika for warmth. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can brighten the dish. You can also mix in veggies for extra nutrition. Diced bell peppers or shredded carrots work well in the meat mixture. This makes your Loaded Meatloaf Mashed Potato Bake even more delicious and unique. To freeze leftovers of Loaded Meatloaf Mashed Potato Bake, follow these steps: - Cool completely: Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature before freezing. - Use airtight containers: Transfer the leftovers to airtight containers or freezer bags. This prevents freezer burn. - Label and date: Write the date on the container so you know when you froze it. You can keep it in the freezer for up to three months for the best quality. After that, it may still be safe to eat, but the taste may fade. To store this dish in the fridge, do the following: - Cover tightly: Use plastic wrap or a lid to cover the dish. This keeps moisture in and prevents it from drying out. - Consume within a week: Try to eat the leftovers within three to five days for the best flavor and safety. For reheating, you can use a microwave or an oven: - Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot. - Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. Enjoy your leftovers just as much as the first serving! You can pair this dish with simple sides. Here are some great options: - Steamed green beans - Roasted carrots - Garden salad - Corn on the cob - Garlic bread These sides add freshness and crunch. They balance the rich flavors of the meatloaf and potatoes. Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. Here’s how: - Mix your meatloaf and layer it in the baking dish. - Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. - You can also make the mashed potatoes ahead and store them separately. When you're ready to bake, just remove the wrap. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if chilled. The total baking time is about 55-60 minutes. Here is the breakdown: - Bake the meatloaf for 30 minutes. - Then, add the mashed potatoes and cheese. Bake for another 25-30 minutes. Always ensure cheese is melted and bubbly before serving. Absolutely! You can swap cheddar for other cheeses. Here are some tasty alternatives: - Monterey Jack - Pepper Jack for a spicy kick - Mozzarella for a milder flavor - Gouda for a smoky touch Feel free to mix and match to find your favorite flavor! This Loaded Meatloaf Mashed Potato Bake combines rich flavors and easy steps. We used ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, and savory toppings. Your dish will shine with cheese, bacon, and fresh green onions. Remember to keep your meatloaf moist and your mashed potatoes creamy. Feel free to use different proteins and try new spices. Proper storage keeps leftovers tasty for days. Enjoy this hearty meal that can impress any gathering or satisfy a family dinner. Cooking can be fun and flexible, so let your creativity guide you!

Loaded Meatloaf Mashed Potato Bake

A hearty and delicious layered bake featuring a savory meatloaf base topped with creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheddar cheese.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 0.5 lb ground turkey or ground chicken
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 4 cups mashed potatoes
  • 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
  • 0.25 cup green onions, finely chopped (for garnish)
  • 0.5 cup milk
  • 0.5 cup sour cream
  • 0.25 cup barbecue sauce (for drizzling)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's ready for baking.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground turkey. Add the breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Using your hands or a sturdy spoon, mix everything thoroughly until well incorporated for a consistent meat mixture.
  • Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish generously with cooking spray or a bit of oil. Evenly spread the meat mixture in the dish, pressing it down slightly to form an even layer that will serve as the base of your bake.
  • Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meat to set.
  • While the meatloaf is baking, prepare your mashed potatoes if you're making them from scratch. Blend in milk and sour cream until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
  • After 30 minutes, carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven. Evenly spread the prepared mashed potatoes over the top of the meatloaf, using a spatula to create a smooth surface.
  • Generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes. If desired, add the crumbled bacon on top for a savory crunch.
  • Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
  • Once done, allow the dish to cool for about 10 minutes. This will aid in setting the layers for easier slicing.
  • Just before serving, drizzle barbecue sauce across the top for an extra zing and garnish with finely chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Slice into squares and serve warm.

Notes

Feel free to customize the toppings with your favorite ingredients.
Keyword bake, comfort food, mashed potatoes, meatloaf