This loaded potato and meatloaf combination is a heartwarming dish that’s perfect for cozy nights in. The rich and juicy meatloaf pairs perfectly with the creamy mashed potatoes, all topped with cheddar cheese and crispy bacon bits for added texture and flavor.
The beauty of this dish lies in its balance of hearty flavors and textures. The savory meatloaf provides a satisfying, meaty bite, while the mashed potatoes offer a creamy, cheesy contrast. This dish is simple, yet indulgent – the kind of meal that feels like a hug on a plate. It’s perfect for family dinners, weekend meals, or even a special gathering with loved ones.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef
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1/2 lb ground pork
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1 cup breadcrumbs
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1/2 cup milk
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1 egg
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
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1/4 cup butter
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1/2 cup sour cream
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1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
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1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (optional, for topping)
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
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Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
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Meanwhile, place the cubed potatoes in a pot of water. Bring to a boil and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
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Drain the potatoes, then return them to the pot. Add butter, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
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Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
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Serve the meatloaf slices on a plate with a generous scoop of mashed potatoes on the side.
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Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions, cooked bacon bits, and grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Kcal: 570 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Loaded Potato and Meatloaf
Loaded Potato and Meatloaf is a classic comfort food combination that brings together two beloved dishes in a way that is satisfying, flavorful, and easy to make. This hearty meal combines a tender, juicy meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, both of which are packed with rich flavors and textures that appeal to a wide range of tastes. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.
The versatility of this meal makes it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for picky eaters and food enthusiasts alike. The meatloaf, made with a mixture of ground beef and pork, offers a savory flavor that pairs wonderfully with the smooth, cheesy mashed potatoes. Topped with crispy bacon bits and melted cheese, the dish reaches a whole new level of deliciousness, making it an indulgent yet comforting option for any night of the week.
A Perfect Comfort Food Meal
Comfort food often evokes memories of family gatherings, cozy nights, and heartwarming experiences, and Loaded Potato and Meatloaf certainly fits that description. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are. The combination of rich, meaty meatloaf and creamy mashed potatoes offers both comfort and satisfaction, making it an ideal choice when you’re craving something hearty and filling.
One of the best parts about this dish is how easily it can be customized to suit different tastes. You can experiment with adding different types of cheese to the mashed potatoes or even mix in herbs and spices to enhance the flavor. Adding a touch of sour cream or Greek yogurt can make the mashed potatoes even creamier, while different seasonings in the meatloaf mixture can be used to vary the flavor profile. The recipe is flexible, so feel free to get creative!
Why Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes Make a Great Pair
At the heart of this dish is the union of two beloved comfort food classics: meatloaf and mashed potatoes. These two dishes have long been favorites in American kitchens, and when served together, they create the ultimate comfort food experience. Meatloaf is a savory dish that can be made in a variety of ways, but the classic combination of ground beef and pork ensures a juicy, flavorful loaf. The mashed potatoes, on the other hand, are creamy, rich, and versatile, with a texture that complements the meatloaf perfectly.
What makes this pairing so special is the balance of flavors and textures. The tender, moist meatloaf contrasts with the smooth, fluffy mashed potatoes, while the addition of cheese and bacon bits provides extra richness and crunch. This combination of elements creates a meal that is satisfying without being overwhelming. It’s hearty, filling, and comforting, but not too heavy, making it the perfect dish for any occasion.
The Appeal of Bacon in the Dish
One of the standout elements of this Loaded Potato and Meatloaf dish is the inclusion of bacon. Bacon adds a savory, smoky flavor that enhances the richness of both the meatloaf and the mashed potatoes. The crispy bacon bits, scattered on top of the dish, not only provide a delightful crunch but also contribute a depth of flavor that takes the entire meal to the next level.
Bacon pairs wonderfully with both beef and pork, making it the perfect addition to the meatloaf mixture. Whether it’s mixed into the meatloaf itself or used as a topping, bacon introduces a savory element that contrasts beautifully with the creamy mashed potatoes. It’s the little touch of indulgence that makes the dish even more delicious, and it’s one of the reasons why this recipe is so popular with home cooks and food enthusiasts alike.
The Versatility of Loaded Potato and Meatloaf
While this dish is already a winning combination, its versatility is one of the things that makes it so appealing. You can easily adjust the ingredients and seasonings to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs. For instance, you could swap out the ground beef and pork for turkey or chicken to create a leaner version of the meatloaf. You can also make the mashed potatoes dairy-free by using plant-based milk and butter alternatives.
Moreover, if you’re looking for a low-carb option, you can replace the mashed potatoes with cauliflower mash or another vegetable-based alternative. The key is to experiment with ingredients you enjoy and make the dish your own. Whether you prefer it extra cheesy, spicy, or with a healthier twist, this recipe can be tailored to fit any dietary preference or flavor profile.
How to Make Your Own Loaded Potato and Meatloaf at Home
Making Loaded Potato and Meatloaf at home is relatively simple, and the steps are straightforward. The meatloaf itself is easy to prepare, and it requires only a few ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Mixing together the ground meats, breadcrumbs, and seasonings creates a flavorful base for the meatloaf. As it bakes in the oven, the flavors meld together, creating a tender, juicy loaf.
The mashed potatoes are just as easy to make. You simply cook the potatoes until they’re soft and mash them with butter, sour cream, and cheese for a creamy, indulgent side. If you’re using bacon, frying it up and adding it to the top of the dish will bring an extra layer of flavor and texture that complements the rest of the meal. After assembling everything, the dish is ready to be served, and your family and friends will be amazed by how delicious and comforting it is.
Perfect for Family Dinners or Special Occasions
This Loaded Potato and Meatloaf meal is ideal for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even more special occasions. Its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it a great weeknight dinner option, but it’s also impressive enough to serve at a larger gathering. Whether you’re cooking for a small family or a crowd of guests, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy and delight everyone who tries it.
The beauty of this recipe is that it is easy to scale up or down depending on the number of people you are serving. For a smaller family, you can make a smaller meatloaf, while for a larger group, you can double the recipe to ensure there’s enough for everyone. Regardless of the occasion, this dish will always hit the mark.
Conclusion:
Loaded Potato and Meatloaf is a dish that embodies comfort, flavor, and satisfaction. With its combination of juicy meatloaf and creamy mashed potatoes, enhanced by savory bacon and melted cheese, it is the epitome of hearty, home-cooked meals. The versatility of this recipe means that it can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary needs, making it a dish that can be enjoyed by all.
What sets this meal apart is its ability to bring together simple, humble ingredients and transform them into something truly special. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. The blend of flavors and textures, combined with the comforting nature of the dish, makes Loaded Potato and Meatloaf a recipe that you’ll want to make again and again.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for a satisfying, hearty meal, look no further than this Loaded Potato and Meatloaf recipe. It’s easy to make, delicious, and sure to become a go-to dish for any occasion. Enjoy the comfort and flavors of this classic meal, and share it with loved ones for a truly memorable dining experience.