Name: Savory Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole for Family Meals
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 1 medium onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 4 medium russet potatoes (peeled and diced); 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup milk; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon dried thyme

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Introduction

There's something incredibly satisfying about a dish that combines tender meatloaf and creamy potatoes all in one casserole. Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole is a comfort food classic that brings together flavors and textures that can please the entire family.

This hearty dish is perfect for those chilly evenings or when you're looking for a satisfying meal that doesn't take hours to prepare. Each layer works in harmony, creating a filling meal that can easily become a family favorite.

Whether you're feeding a crowd or just your close-knit household, this casserole offers a delightful twist on traditional meatloaf, making it exciting and delicious.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
Ground beef provides the primary protein source for this casserole. It becomes tender and flavorful when mixed with seasonings and baked, forming the bedrock of the dish.
1 cup breadcrumbs
Breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf together, ensuring it holds its shape while baking. They also absorb some of the moisture and add a pleasant texture.
1 egg
Eggs act as a binding agent in the meatloaf, helping to hold all the ingredients together, while also adding richness.
1 medium onion, chopped
Chopped onion adds sweetness and depth to the flavor profile. As it cooks, the onion caramelizes slightly, enhancing the overall taste.
2 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic introduces a pungent aroma and robust flavor, elevating the casserole's taste and providing a savory foundation.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Cheddar cheese adds creaminess and a tangy flavor that complements both the potatoes and the meatloaf. It melts beautifully, creating a luscious top layer.
4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
Diced russet potatoes serve as a hearty base layer in the casserole, absorbing the flavors of the meatloaf while providing a creamy texture when baked.
1/2 cup sour cream
Sour cream adds a rich, tangy element that enhances the flavor of the potatoes and helps keep the mixture moist.
1/4 cup milk
Milk thins out the sour cream and helps create a smooth, creamy consistency for the potato layer, making it easier to blend.
Salt and pepper to taste
Simple seasonings like salt and pepper are crucial for enhancing the flavors of each ingredient, ensuring that the dish is well-balanced.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Worcestershire sauce brings a complex umami flavor that deepens the richness of the meatloaf, adding a subtle tang.
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Dried thyme adds a layer of aromatic flavor that pairs wonderfully with the meat and complements the earthiness of the potatoes.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Preheating the oven is essential to ensure even cooking throughout the casserole. Starting with a hot oven helps the edges crisp up, while allowing the inside to cook thoroughly without becoming dry.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Mixing these ingredients is crucial for developing the meatloaf's flavor and texture. Ensure everything is well combined, but don’t overmix; otherwise, the meatloaf can become tough.

Step 3: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread the meat mixture evenly on the bottom.

Greasing the dish prevents the casserole from sticking and allows for easy serving. Spreading the meat mixture evenly ensures consistent cooking and flavor distribution.

Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix together the diced potatoes, sour cream, milk, salt, and pepper.

This mixture forms the creamy potato layer that balances the richness of the meatloaf. Proper blending ensures every bite has the same delightful flavor and creamy texture.

Step 5: Spread the potato mixture evenly over the meatloaf layer.

Placing the potato layer on top creates a barrier that helps the meat remain moist while baking. Spreading evenly also promotes even cooking.

Step 6: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the potato layer.

The cheese not only adds flavor but also creates a delicious, gooey topping as it melts. It forms a beautiful golden crust that adds appealing visuals and irresistible taste.

Step 7: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.

Covering the casserole prevents the cheese from burning while allowing the meat and potatoes to cook fully. This creates a steaming effect that helps keep everything moist.

Step 8: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and bubbly.

Uncovering the casserole at this stage lets the cheese brown beautifully and intensifies the flavor. Watch closely to prevent over-browning.

Step 9: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Allowing the casserole to rest is essential as it helps to set the layers and makes serving easier. It also gives the flavors a chance to marry together.

Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole step photo

Elevating the Classic Meatloaf

By incorporating elements like Worcestershire sauce and fresh garlic into the meat mixture, this loaded casserole adds an elevated twist to the traditional meatloaf. The added depth of flavor not only enhances the meat but also complements the creamy potatoes, creating a cohesive dish that feels familiar yet exciting.

A Creamy Potato Experience

The potato layer in this casserole is not just a starch; it brings a luscious creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the savory meatloaf. With the addition of sour cream and cheese, every spoonful offers a rich and satisfying texture, ensuring that the potatoes are as much a star as the meat.

Perfect for Family Gatherings

This Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole is an ideal dish for family gatherings or potluck dinners. It's easy to prepare, requires minimal clean-up, and can be served straight from the oven to the table, making it not only delicious but also practical for busy home cooks.

FAQs

Why is my casserole too thick?

If the casserole turns out too thick, it may be due to too many potatoes or insufficient moisture in the mixture. Consider adding a splash more milk to the potatoes or using fewer potatoes next time.

What can I do if the meatloaf is bland?

If you find your meatloaf mixture lacks flavor, increase the seasonings such as salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, or herbs. Taste the mixture before baking to ensure it meets your flavor expectations.

Can I make the potato layer richer?

To enhance the richness of the potato layer, mix in additional cheese or replace some milk with cream. This will provide a more decadent texture and flavor.

Is there a vegetarian substitute for the meat?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute designed for cooking. Combine these with breadcrumbs and binders just like you would for the meat mixture.

How do I prevent my cheese from burning?

To prevent the cheese from burning, cover the casserole with foil during the first part of the baking, and only uncover it during the last 15-20 minutes for browning.

What size baking dish should I use?

A 9×13 inch baking dish is ideal for this recipe as it provides enough space for both the meatloaf and potato layers while ensuring even cooking.

Conclusion

Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole is a nostalgic dish that brings comfort and satisfaction, combining classic flavors in a new way. With its hearty components and creamy layers, this casserole is perfect for family meals or gatherings.

Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients or spices to make it your own. Enjoy the process of bringing this dish to your table and relish the joyful reactions from your loved ones.

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