Name: Classic Comfort Loaded Potato Meatloaf
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20); 1 small onion finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves minced; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup milk; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional); 2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes peeled and cubed; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided); 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon; 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions

Description

A show-stopping, crave-worthy comfort dish, Classic Comfort Loaded Potato Meatloaf blends juicy ground beef meatloaf with a creamy layer of loaded mashed potatoes, topped with crispy bacon and melted cheddar cheese. It’s perfect for a hearty family dinner, weekend gathering, or prepping comforting weekday meals. This easy recipe combines two beloved food ideas—meatloaf and mashed potatoes—into one unforgettable meal. Whether you’re searching for a cozy dinner idea, easy dinner recipe, or the ultimate make-ahead meal, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20)

1 small onion finely chopped

2 garlic cloves minced

1 cup breadcrumbs

1/2 cup milk

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 large egg

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1 tablespoon ketchup (optional)

2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes peeled and cubed

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/2 cup sour cream

1/2 cup milk

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon

2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions

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Instructions

1. Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 15–20 minutes). Drain and mash with butter, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix in 1/4 cup cheddar, half the bacon, and chives. Set aside to cool slightly.

2. In a bowl, mix ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, egg, salt, pepper, thyme, and ketchup. Mix until just combined.

3. Press the meat mixture into a greased 9-inch round baking dish. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes.

4. Remove from oven. Spread the mashed potatoes on top. Sprinkle with remaining cheddar and bacon.

5. Bake for an additional 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and lightly golden. Broil the top for 2–3 minutes if desired. Rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra chives.

Notes

Let the mashed potatoes cool before spreading to avoid sinking into the meat layer.

Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep it tender and juicy.

Freshly shredded cheese melts and tastes better than pre-shredded varieties.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 510
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 640mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 29g
Cholesterol: 105mg