Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole

INGREDIENTS:

For the Meatloaf Layer:

1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup milk

1 egg

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Potato Layer:

4 medium russet potatoes (peeled and diced)

1/2 cup sour cream

1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Toppings:

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

4 slices cooked bacon (crumbled)

2 green onions (sliced, for garnish)

Optional : Additional sour cream or chopped chives

DIRECTIONS:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Layer

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix.

Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the base layer.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

Place the diced potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender (about 10–12 minutes). Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.

Mash the potatoes with the melted butter, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the mashed potato mixture evenly over the meatloaf layer, creating a thick, creamy middle layer.

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the potatoes.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes , or until the meatloaf is cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F/71°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Add Toppings and Serve

Top the casserole with crumbled bacon and sliced green onions for a loaded baked potato finish.

Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream or extra chives if desired.