Ultimate Loaded Potato Meatloaf

If you love comfort food, this Ultimate Loaded Potato Meatloaf is going to be your new favorite dinner. Juicy, seasoned meatloaf is topped with a creamy layer of mashed potatoes, melty cheese, and crispy turkey bacon—delivering all the loaded baked potato flavors in a hearty, satisfying meatloaf format. It’s the perfect crowd-pleaser for family dinners or special occasions.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
All-in-One Comfort Meal – Meat, potatoes, cheese, and bacon in every bite.
Family Friendly – Loved by kids and adults alike.
Make Ahead – Prepare in advance and bake when ready.
Full of Flavor – Classic loaded potato toppings meet juicy meatloaf.
Great for Leftovers – Tastes just as good (if not better) the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika

For the Loaded Potato Topping:

• 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• ¼ cup milk (plus more if needed)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• ¼ cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 strips cooked turkey bacon, crumbled
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Potato masher
• Loaf pan or baking dish
• Skillet (for bacon)
• Saucepan
• Spatula or spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a loaf pan or line with parchment for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Base
In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Combine until just mixed—don’t overwork.
Shape into a loaf and place into the prepared pan.

Step 3: Bake the Meatloaf
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Remove from oven but don’t turn it off.

Step 4: Prepare the Mashed Potato Topping
While the meatloaf bakes, boil potatoes in salted water for 15 minutes or until tender.
Drain and mash with milk, butter, sour cream, salt, and pepper until creamy.

Step 5: Load It Up
Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the baked meatloaf.
Top with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled turkey bacon.
Return to oven for 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped green onions or chives if desired.
Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve.

Tips for Perfect Loaded Meatloaf
Use Lean Beef – Keeps it moist without being greasy.
Mash Potatoes Well – Smooth, creamy potatoes spread more evenly.
Drain Meatloaf – If excess grease collects, carefully drain it before topping.
Customize Toppings – Add extra cheese, switch up herbs, or use different bacon alternatives.
Let It Rest – Slices hold together better if allowed to sit a few minutes.

Serving Suggestions
With Steamed Veggies – Balance the richness with broccoli or green beans.
Side Salad – A crisp, fresh salad adds color and crunch.
Dinner Rolls – Perfect for scooping up cheesy, meaty bites.
Hot Sauce or BBQ – For those who like a flavor kick.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing:
Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave slices for 1–2 minutes, checking halfway.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
   Yes, for convenience. Just make them thick enough to spread easily.
2. What’s a good bacon alternative?
   Try beef or chicken bacon, or skip entirely for a vegetarian version.
3. Can I use ground turkey?
   Yes—just reduce cooking time slightly and be sure it reaches 165°F internally.
4. Can I make this in advance?
   Absolutely! Assemble up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Final Thoughts
The Ultimate Loaded Potato Meatloaf is the definition of comfort food with a twist. From its juicy meat base to its rich, cheesy potato topping, this dish brings all the flavors of your favorite baked potato into a hearty, satisfying slice. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this meatloaf is sure to become a beloved classic in your kitchen.

Try it once and watch it disappear!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 of 6):
Calories: 480 | Protein: 32g | Carbohydrates: 22g | Fat: 29g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 650mg

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