Loaded Potato and Meatloaf

Loaded Potato and Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food fusion — combining a hearty, flavorful meatloaf base with creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes loaded with savory toppings like bacon, green onions, and more cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this all-in-one dish is satisfying, rich, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

1 ½ pounds ground beef (85% lean)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1 cup milk
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Loaded Potatoes:

4 large russet potatoes
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)
½ cup green onions, chopped
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling (optional)

For Topping (Optional):

Additional chopped green onions
Extra shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
A drizzle of sour cream

Directions

1. Prepare the Meatloaf:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, mix ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper until just combined.
Shape into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan or baking sheet.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

2. Prepare the Loaded Potatoes:

While meatloaf bakes, scrub potatoes and pierce with a fork.
Bake in the oven for 45 minutes or microwave for 8–10 minutes (turning halfway) until fork-tender.
Halve potatoes lengthwise and scoop out the flesh into a bowl, leaving a small border.
Mash with butter, sour cream, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Stir in cheddar cheese and green onions.

3. Assemble the Dish:

Let meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking.
Spread mashed potatoes over the top of the meatloaf.
Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, if using.
Return to oven and bake for 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

4. Serve:

Let cool slightly before slicing.
Top with extra cheese, chopped green onions, or a drizzle of sour cream, if desired.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: ~500 kcal
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 800mg

Why This Dish Works So Well

The brilliance of Loaded Potato and Meatloaf lies in its layered construction. On the bottom, the meatloaf provides structure and savory depth thanks to the umami from Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and herbs. The middle layer—mashed potatoes—is creamy, tangy from sour cream, and loaded with melted cheddar cheese for extra indulgence.

Topping it all off, the final garnish of mozzarella cheese, green onions, and possibly a drizzle of sour cream or crispy bacon brings textural contrast and visual appeal. The result? A harmonious combination of flavors and textures in every bite: hearty, creamy, cheesy, and just a little bit crispy.

Moreover, this recipe is baked twice, giving it a cohesive finish. After the mashed potatoes are spread over the cooked meatloaf, the final bake melts the cheese into gooey perfection, further bonding the layers together and turning it into a truly unified dish.

A Versatile Crowd-Pleaser

Another reason why this dish is perfect for home cooks is its flexibility. Whether you’re cooking for a picky eater, a hungry family, or friends with dietary preferences, the Loaded Potato and Meatloaf recipe is highly adaptable.

Here are a few ways to customize it:

Protein Alternatives: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version.
Cheese Variety: While cheddar and mozzarella are common choices, feel free to experiment with gouda, pepper jack, or blue cheese for a bolder flavor.
Add-ins for the Meatloaf: Some cooks like to incorporate finely diced carrots, bell peppers, or even chopped mushrooms for added moisture and nutrition.
Potato Variations: You can substitute russet potatoes with Yukon Golds for a buttery richness or even use sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet contrast.
Toppings Galore: Crispy bacon bits, scallions, fried onions, or jalapeño slices add both flavor and a satisfying crunch.

This adaptability makes it easy to tailor the recipe to seasonal ingredients, personal taste preferences, or dietary restrictions without compromising on the comfort food appeal.

Perfect for Make-Ahead Meals and Leftovers

Another major benefit of this dish is how well it lends itself to meal prep and leftovers. It can be made a day ahead, refrigerated, and then reheated when needed. In fact, letting it sit overnight often allows the flavors to meld even more, giving you a deeper, richer taste the next day.

You can also portion it out into meal-prep containers for the week ahead. Each slice reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven, and it retains both its flavor and texture—unlike some casseroles or meat-based dishes that dry out quickly.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

While the Loaded Potato and Meatloaf is very much a complete meal on its own, there are a few complementary additions that can enhance your dinner table:

Greens: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
Vegetables: Roasted or steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus add freshness and nutrition.
Breads: Warm dinner rolls or garlic bread are excellent for scooping up any leftover cheese and mashed potatoes.
Condiments: A side of ketchup, hot sauce, or creamy horseradish can provide a tangy or spicy contrast.

For beverages, this dish pairs wonderfully with a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a dark beer such as a porter or stout. For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with lemon or a tall glass of iced tea.

A Dish That Brings People Together

Food has a way of connecting people, and comfort food especially has that power. Loaded Potato and Meatloaf isn’t just a recipe—it’s a warm hug in edible form. It’s the kind of dish you bring out when someone needs cheering up, when you want to celebrate togetherness, or when you simply want something hearty, satisfying, and familiar.

Because it’s baked in a single pan and designed to serve several people, it’s perfect for gatherings. Whether it’s a holiday dinner, a casual Sunday supper, or a cozy weeknight meal, this dish invites everyone to the table.

Even better, it’s one of those meals that kids and adults both love. The creamy potatoes, the cheesy topping, the savory meat—there’s something for everyone.

Conclusion

Loaded Potato and Meatloaf is more than just a twist on two beloved dishes—it’s a statement that comfort food can still be creative, satisfying, and family-friendly. With its perfect balance of flavor, texture, and ease of preparation, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a favorite in kitchens across the country.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this dish delivers big rewards for relatively little effort. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can become something truly memorable.

So, the next time you’re craving something hearty and nostalgic, skip the takeout and give this comforting classic a try. Your family (and your taste buds) will thank you.

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