Ultimate Loaded Potato Meatloaf

If you’re craving a comforting, indulgent dinner, this Ultimate Loaded Potato Meatloaf is exactly what you need. It’s a mouthwatering fusion of two classic favorites—meatloaf and loaded baked potatoes. Juicy beef meatloaf is topped with creamy mashed potatoes, melty cheese, and crispy bits for a complete meal baked into one unforgettable dish. Perfect for feeding a family or impressing guests with something hearty and unique.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Two Comfort Foods in One – Meatloaf meets loaded mashed potatoes for maximum satisfaction.
Family Favorite – A guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
Great for Leftovers – Just as delicious the next day.
Customizable – Add your favorite toppings and mix-ins.
Freezer-Friendly – Make ahead and freeze for busy weeknights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meatloaf Base:
1½ lbs ground beef
½ cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
1 egg
½ cup milk
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika

For the Loaded Potato Topping:
2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared ahead and cooled slightly)
¼ cup sour cream
¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper to taste
¼ cup cooked beef or chicken bacon bits
2 tbsp chopped green onions

Optional Toppings:
Extra cheese
More bacon bits
Chopped chives
Drizzle of sour cream

Tools You’ll Need
Mixing bowls
Loaf pan or baking dish
Potato masher or mixer (for mashed potatoes)
Measuring cups and spoons
Foil (for covering while baking)
Spatula or knife for spreading

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf
Preheat your oven to 375°F.
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Mix just until combined—do not overmix to keep it tender.
Press the mixture into a loaf pan or shape into a loaf in a baking dish.

Step 2: Bake the Meatloaf
Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
While it bakes, prepare the potato topping.

Step 3: Make the Loaded Potato Topping
In a bowl, combine mashed potatoes, sour cream, butter, and cheddar cheese.
Stir until creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Fold in bacon bits and green onions.

Step 4: Top the Meatloaf
Remove meatloaf from the oven after 30 minutes.
Spread the loaded mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Sprinkle with additional cheese and bacon bits if desired.

Step 5: Finish Baking
Return the loaf to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F and the topping is lightly golden.
If needed, broil for 2-3 minutes for a bubbly top.

Step 6: Rest & Serve
Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with chopped chives or a drizzle of sour cream.
Serve warm with a green salad or steamed veggies.

Tips for the Best Loaded Potato Meatloaf
Use Day-Old Mashed Potatoes – They spread better and hold their shape.
Don’t Overmix – Keeps the meatloaf juicy and tender.
Add Texture – Bacon bits and cheese add richness and contrast.
Rest Before Slicing – Helps retain juices and keeps it from falling apart.
Make it Spicy – Add diced jalapeños or pepper jack cheese for a kick.

Serving Suggestions
Classic Dinner – Serve with green beans, corn, or roasted carrots.
Comfort Plate – Add a side of gravy and a biscuit for a Southern-style meal.
Weeknight Feast – Pair with coleslaw or a crisp Caesar salad.
Meal Prep Hero – Portion out slices for easy reheatable lunches.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Oven: Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until hot.
Microwave: Heat individual slices in 30-second intervals.
Skillet: Reheat with a lid over low heat for crispy edges.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! It’s leaner but works just as well. Add extra seasoning for flavor.

2. What kind of mashed potatoes should I use?
Any creamy mashed potatoes work—leftovers are perfect!

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble and refrigerate up to 1 day in advance before baking.

4. How do I keep it from falling apart?
Let it rest after baking and slice with a sharp knife for clean cuts.

Final Thoughts
The Ultimate Loaded Potato Meatloaf is everything you love about comfort food rolled into one hearty dish. Creamy, cheesy, and rich, it’s guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and earn a regular spot on your dinner table. Perfect for weeknights, leftovers, or impressing guests—this dish never disappoints.

Make it tonight and let me know how it turned out! Share your photos and favorite toppings in the comments.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Serves 6):
Calories: 430 | Protein: 26g | Carbohydrates: 18g | Fat: 28g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 520mg

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