Prepare the Meatloaf: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and ketchup. Mix everything until well combined.
Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the meatloaf mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Shape the mixture into a loaf shape, making sure it’s evenly spread across the dish for even cooking.
Bake the Meatloaf: Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F/70°C). Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: While the meatloaf is baking, place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook the potatoes for about 10-12 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and return the potatoes to the pot.
Mash the Potatoes: Add the butter, sour cream, and milk to the potatoes and mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Assemble the Casserole: Once the meatloaf is done and slightly cooled, crumble it into large pieces and spread it over the bottom of the same baking dish. Layer the mashed potatoes on top of the meatloaf, smoothing it out with a spatula.
Add the Toppings: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes. Add crispy bacon bits, green onions, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
Bake the Casserole: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serve and Enjoy: Scoop out hearty portions of the casserole and serve hot. This comforting dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions: Serve the casserole with a side of fresh vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or a simple side salad to balance out the richness. For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle a bit of extra ketchup or barbecue sauce on top before serving.
Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven, making it perfect for leftovers.
Freezing: If you have leftovers or want to make this dish in advance, you can freeze the casserole. Allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Variants:
Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for a meatless alternative, such as lentils, chickpeas, or a store-bought vegetarian meat substitute. You can also add extra veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers to enhance the flavor.
Spicy Twist: Add a bit of heat by incorporating chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or pepper jack cheese into the mashed potatoes or meatloaf. This will give the casserole a spicy kick that’s perfect for those who love bold flavors.
Smoky Flavor: If you enjoy smoky flavors, try adding some smoked paprika to the meatloaf mixture or topping the casserole with smoked gouda cheese. A bit of smoked sausage mixed into the meatloaf can also add a unique depth of flavor.
FAQ:
1. Can I make the meatloaf mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover the mixture and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. This can save you time on busy days!
2. Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead of homemade mashed potatoes?
Yes, if you’re in a rush, you can use instant mashed potatoes. Just prepare them according to the package instructions and layer them over the meatloaf as you would the homemade mashed potatoes.
3. How can I make the casserole even cheesier?
For a cheesier casserole, you can add extra cheese layers. Try mixing some cheese into the mashed potatoes before spreading them over the meatloaf, or adding a second layer of cheese between the meatloaf and mashed potatoes.
4. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to add the toppings and bake it before serving. You may need to adjust the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
5. Is there a way to make the casserole healthier?
To make the casserole healthier, you can use lean ground turkey instead of beef, reduce the amount of cheese, and use a lower-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt in the mashed potatoes. You could also add extra vegetables to the casserole for added nutrition.
This Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich flavors of classic meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and cheesy goodness. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or looking for an easy meal to serve at a gathering, this casserole will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the perfect combination of flavors and textures, all in one delicious dish!
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