Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2️⃣ Prepare the Meatloaf Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
Mix until just combined—don’t overwork the meat.
3️⃣ Press into Baking Dish:
Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish to form a flat, compact meatloaf layer.
4️⃣ Bake Meatloaf:
Bake the meatloaf layer for 25–30 minutes or until it’s cooked through and lightly browned. Drain off any excess grease.
5️⃣ Add Mashed Potatoes:
Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the baked meatloaf layer. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
6️⃣ Top It Off:
Sprinkle the top with cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and green onions. Add a few dollops of sour cream, if using, for extra richness.
7️⃣ Final Bake:
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8️⃣ Serve:
Let rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy all the comforting layers in every bite!
Tips for the Best Casserole:
- Shortcut: Use store-bought mashed potatoes if you’re short on time.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the meatloaf and potatoes separately in advance, then assemble and bake when ready.
- Add Veggies: Mix in some cooked peas, carrots, or corn for extra color and flavor.
Why You’ll Love It:
- All-in-One Meal: Protein, potatoes, cheese, and bacon—what’s not to love?
- Crowd-Pleaser: Great for family dinners, potlucks, or feeding a hungry crew.
- Pure Comfort: It’s hearty, cheesy, warm, and super satisfying.
Would you like me to continue with nutritional info, common issues, or flavor variations just like we did with the chicken crescent rolls?
