There’s something magical about the scent of a savory casserole baking in the oven on a crisp evening. Maybe it’s a chilly fall night, the kind where everyone wants to gather around the table for a warm, hearty meal. Or perhaps it’s a lazy Sunday, perfect for indulging in some much-needed comfort food. This Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole is the kind of recipe that turns a regular dinner into something worth remembering.

Inspired by the home-cooked meals my grandmother used to make, this dish brings together two classic favorites—meatloaf and mashed potatoes—into one glorious, cheesy, oven-baked masterpiece. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for a potluck, this recipe delivers flavor, comfort, and plenty of “Can I have seconds?”

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Why You’ll Love This Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole

This recipe is more than just a dinner idea—it’s a full experience of taste and texture. Here’s what makes it irresistible:

• Layered Flavor: You’ve got juicy, seasoned ground beef forming the base, topped with fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes.
• Cheesy Goodness: Melted cheddar and a sprinkle of green onions give it that extra “wow” factor.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it earlier in the day and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
• Customizable: Swap out beef for turkey, or add crispy bacon bits for even more indulgence.
• Kid-Approved: The familiar flavors make this a hit with even the pickiest eaters.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meatloaf Base:

• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup ketchup

For the Loaded Potato Layer:

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a medium-sized baking dish. This helps prevent sticking and ensures an easy cleanup later.

2. Make the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Pro Tip:

Don’t overmix the meat—doing so can make it tough. Mix just until everything is combined.

3. Add the Ketchup Layer

Spread the 1/2 cup of ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This not only adds flavor but helps create a nice glaze.

4. First Bake

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25 minutes. This step allows the meatloaf to start setting up before the potato layer is added.

5. Prepare the Potatoes

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