A close-up of a meatloaf on a plate, topped with melted cheese and served with mashed potatoes.A comforting meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and a cheesy topping - a perfect weeknight dinner!

Savory Meatloaf with Creamy Mashed Potatoes and Cheese

In the realm of homestyle goodness, few dishes rival the comforting appeal of a well-made meatloaf. But what happens when you take that classic favorite and elevate it to a whole new level of deliciousness? Enter the Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole – a culinary masterpiece that combines the heartiness of meatloaf with the irresistible allure of loaded mashed potatoes. Let’s dive into this delectable dish that promises to be a hit with both kids and adults alike!

A Fusion of Flavor: The Perfect Dinner Recipe

When it comes to satisfying hunger and pleasing palates, casseroles reign supreme. And this Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole is no exception. With its harmonious blend of savory meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese, it’s a dish that hits all the right notes. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.

Ingredients That Make Magic Happen

To recreate this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen, you’ll need:

  • 1 1/2 pounds of Ground Beef (85/15)
  • 1/4 of a yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2/3 cup of seasoned dry breadcrumbs
  • 1/3 cup of whole milk
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 teaspoon of Kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon of coarse ground black pepper
  • 2 pounds of potatoes, peeled and cut into 1″ chunks
  • 1/3 cup of unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup of whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon of kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon of coarse ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup of bacon bits, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup of cheddar cheese, shredded

Crafting the Culinary Masterpiece

Now, let’s bring these ingredients together to create a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite:

  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
  2. Prepare the Meatloaf Base: In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, and pepper. Press this mixture into a 9×9 baking dish.
  3. Bake the Meatloaf: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15 minutes. Once done, remove from the oven and drain any excess fat.
  4. Prepare the Loaded Mashed Potatoes: While the meatloaf is baking, cook the potatoes in a pot of boiling water for 15 minutes. Drain the water and add milk, butter, salt, and pepper to the potatoes, mashing them until creamy.
  5. Assemble the Casserole: Spread the mashed potatoes over the cooked meatloaf and top with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
  6. Final Bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the bacon is sizzling, the cheese is bubbling, and the mashed potatoes are slightly crispy.

A Culinary Delight Awaits

In just a few simple steps, you’ve transformed ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary delight. The Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole is not only a feast for the senses but also a testament to the joys of homestyle cooking. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and treat your family to a dinner they won’t soon forget!

With its irresistible flavors and simple preparation, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your mealtime repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving some comfort food, this dish delivers on all fronts. So go ahead, indulge your taste buds and elevate your dinner game with this sensational recipe.