Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a scrumptious twist on a classic dish? Meet Loaded Potato Meatloaf, the ultimate comfort food that combines the heartiness of meatloaf with the creamy goodness of loaded baked potatoes. This dish is a flavorful delight, stuffing tender ground meat with a medley of mashed potatoes, cheese, and your favorite toppings, creating a moist and juicy experience that will make your taste buds sing! Fun fact: meatloaf has been around since the Roman times, but this variation brings it into modern family meals with a fun, bold flavor profile.
Why should you try this dish, you ask? Well, it’s incredibly simple to whip up, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Loaded Potato Meatloaf is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that everyone—especially the kids—will love! If you enjoy other hearty dishes like my Easy Shepherd’s Pie, you’ll find this recipe just as satisfying and delicious—but don’t take my word for it; let’s dive into the details!
What is Loaded Potato Meatloaf?
So, what’s in a name? Loaded Potato Meatloaf sounds like something you might find on the menu of a trendy café, right? Well, it might just give you a giggle when you think about it. “Loaded Potato”? Sounds like a fancy way to say “I put a whole lot of yummy stuff in here!” Imagine a meatloaf that’s saying, “Hey there! I’m not your ordinary loaf. I’ve been loaded with mashed potatoes and cheesy goodness just for you!” It’s like the meatloaf’s way of saying, “The way to a person’s heart is through their stomach!” So, what are you waiting for? Give this hearty recipe a try!
Why You’ll Love This Loaded Potato Meatloaf
Here are three reasons why this Loaded Potato Meatloaf will quickly become a favorite in your home. First, the star of the dish is undoubtedly the loaded interior—think creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheese that smother the ground meat, making each bite pure bliss. Second, this dish is budget-friendly! It uses pantry staples, which means you can create a delicious, filling meal without breaking the bank. Lastly, the versatility of toppings makes it easy to customize. Whether you want to add sautéed onions, crispy bits of veggies, or a splash of your favorite sauce, you can turn this dish into a masterpiece that appeals to your flavor preferences. If you love hearty meals like my Creamy Chicken and Rice, this loaded meatloaf will not disappoint!
How to Make Loaded Potato Meatloaf
Quick Overview
Making Loaded Potato Meatloaf is a breeze, and it’s a perfect dish for weeknight dinners! This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, followed by an hour in the oven, resulting in a deliciously satisfying and comforting meal. Plus, it’s easy enough for novice cooks to follow, thanks to concise steps and clear instructions. Ready to get started? Grab your apron!
Key Ingredients for Loaded Potato Meatloaf
- 1 pound of ground beef (or your favorite ground meat)
- 2 cups of mashed potatoes (leftovers work great!)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, chives, or sour cream for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, 1 cup of mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, chopped onion, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
- Spread the remaining mashed potatoes over the top, creating a fun “loaded” layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Allow to rest for 10 minutes before slicing to serve. Top with additional cheese or garnishes if desired.
Top Tips for Perfecting Loaded Potato Meatloaf
- Customize: Feel free to mix in different seasonings or sauces to the meatloaf mix for added flavor, such as garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce.
- Moisture Matters: If your meatloaf feels a little dry, consider adding a splash of milk to the mix or preparing a flavorful sauce to drizzle on top after baking.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy; this will help render juicy meatloaf every time.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store, let the Loaded Potato Meatloaf cool completely, then wrap it in plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want it to last longer, freezing is an option! Simply slice and wrap the pieces in foil, which allows you to reheat individual portions whenever you’re craving comfort food. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or use the microwave for a quicker option. Enjoy those leftovers!
This Loaded Potato Meatloaf recipe packs a punch of flavor in a cozy, convenient way that everyone will love to dig into. Get ready to enjoy this scrumptious dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any dining table!
Loaded Potato Meatloaf
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or your favorite ground meat
- 2 cups mashed potatoes leftovers work great
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or your choice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- shredded cheese for topping
- chives for garnish
- sour cream for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, 1 cup of mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, chopped onion, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
- Spread the remaining mashed potatoes over the top, creating a fun 'loaded' layer.
Cooking
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Allow to rest for 10 minutes before slicing to serve. Top with additional cheese or garnishes if desired.
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