Meatloaf and mashed potatoes are a classic duo, but this Loaded Potato and Meatloaf recipe takes them to the next level! Juicy, well-seasoned meatloaf is paired with creamy, cheesy loaded baked potatoes, creating the ultimate comforting meal. With layers of melted cheese, tangy sour cream, and fresh green onions, this dish delivers the perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, this dish is easy to prepare and customizable to your taste. Whether you love extra cheese, a hint of spice, or a dollop of rich gravy, this recipe offers endless possibilities. Serve it hot and enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Loaded Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)
- ½ cup green onions, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling (optional)
For Topping (Optional):
- Additional chopped green onions
- Extra shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- A drizzle of sour cream
Directions:
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Prepare the Meatloaf
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape into a loaf and place on a baking sheet or in a greased loaf pan.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) is reached.
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Prepare the Potatoes
- While the meatloaf is baking, scrub the russet potatoes and pierce them with a fork.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes or microwave on high for 8-10 minutes until fork-tender.
- Once cooked, cut the potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh into a mixing bowl, leaving a small border for stability.
- Mash the potato flesh with butter, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions.
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Assemble the Loaded Potatoes
- Spoon the mashed potato mixture back into the potato skins.
- Sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top and a few additional green onions.
- Place under the broiler for 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
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Serve and Enjoy
- Plate slices of meatloaf alongside the cheesy loaded potatoes.
- Garnish with extra sour cream, green onions, or shredded cheese.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Kcal: 500 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Loaded Potato and Meatloaf: A Hearty Comfort Food Classic
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can match the rich, homey flavors of meatloaf and mashed potatoes. But what if you could combine the two into one indulgent meal? That’s exactly what Loaded Potato and Meatloaf does bringing together the heartiness of a juicy, well seasoned meatloaf with the creamy, cheesy goodness of loaded potatoes. This dish is a true celebration of classic American flavors, with a modern twist that makes it even more irresistible.
Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a gathering, this dish delivers big on taste and satisfaction. Let’s take a deeper look at what makes this recipe so special, how you can customize it to suit your preferences, and the best ways to serve it for a truly memorable meal.
The Origins of Meatloaf and Loaded Potatoes
Both meatloaf and loaded potatoes have deep roots in comfort food traditions, particularly in American and European cuisines.
Meatloaf has been a staple of home kitchens for generations, with variations dating back to ancient times. The modern version, made with ground meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, gained popularity in the United States during the Great Depression, when home cooks needed to stretch their ingredients as far as possible. Over time, meatloaf has evolved into a beloved dish with endless variations, from the addition of different meats to creative seasoning blends and toppings.
Loaded potatoes, on the other hand, have their origins in the classic baked potato, which has been enjoyed for centuries. The concept of stuffing potatoes with cheese, sour cream, and other toppings likely became popular in steakhouses and diners, where a well-dressed baked potato was the perfect complement to a hearty main course. Today, loaded potatoes are a go-to side dish for many, known for their indulgent, creamy texture and delicious flavor combinations.
By merging these two favorites into one dish, Loaded Potato and Meatloaf takes comfort food to a whole new level. Instead of serving mashed potatoes on the side, this recipe incorporates them as a flavorful, cheesy topping, making every bite a perfect blend of textures and tastes.
Why This Dish Works So Well
What makes Loaded Potato and Meatloaf so delicious? It’s all about the balance of flavors and textures:
- Savory and Juicy Meatloaf – The meatloaf itself is seasoned with a blend of herbs, spices, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup, giving it a deep, rich flavor. Breadcrumbs and eggs help bind the mixture together, ensuring a tender and juicy texture.
- Creamy and Cheesy Potatoes – Instead of regular mashed potatoes, this dish features loaded mashed potatoes—flavored with butter, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and green onions. This adds a tangy, cheesy element that perfectly complements the savory meat.
- Melty, Golden Cheese Topping – A final sprinkle of shredded cheese on top allows the dish to get a perfectly melted, bubbly finish when baked. This extra layer of flavor makes it even more comforting and satisfying.
- A One-Dish Meal – Because this recipe combines both protein and starch in one, it simplifies meal planning. You don’t have to worry about making extra side dishes everything you need is already on the plate!
Customization and Variations
One of the best things about Loaded Potato and Meatloaf is how customizable it is. Here are some fun ways to tweak the recipe to suit your preferences:
1. Try Different Meats
While traditional meatloaf is made with ground beef, you can easily substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of beef and pork for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a leaner option, go for ground turkey or chicken, but be sure to add extra moisture (such as a bit more milk or finely grated vegetables) to prevent dryness.
2. Add Some Heat
If you like a little spice, add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. You can also stir in some hot sauce or smoked paprika for an extra kick.
3. Experiment with Cheese
Cheddar is a classic choice for loaded potatoes, but you can mix it up with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, Pepper Jack, or even blue cheese for a bolder taste.
4. Go Low-Carb
For a lower-carb version, swap out the potatoes for mashed cauliflower. It still provides a creamy, cheesy texture while reducing the overall carb content.
5. Make It Vegetarian
For a meat-free version, use a plant-based ground beef substitute, lentils, or mashed beans as the base of the meatloaf. You can also use mushrooms and walnuts to add a meaty texture.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Loaded Potato and Meatloaf
Even though this dish is satisfying on its own, you can pair it with a few simple side dishes to round out the meal:
- Roasted Vegetables – Try oven-roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans for a healthy contrast to the richness of the dish.
- Simple Green Salad – A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the creamy, cheesy flavors of the loaded potatoes.
- Garlic Bread – If you’re looking for an extra indulgent meal, warm garlic bread is a delicious addition.
- Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus – These veggies add freshness and balance out the richness of the dish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
One of the great things about Loaded Potato and Meatloaf is that it stores well, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.
Refrigeration:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Freezing:
Both the meatloaf and loaded potatoes freeze well! Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven until heated through.
Conclusion
Loaded Potato and Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food, combining two beloved dishes into one irresistible meal. The juicy, flavorful meatloaf pairs perfectly with the creamy, cheesy loaded potatoes, creating a satisfying and well-balanced dish that’s easy to prepare and customize.
Whether you enjoy it as a weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or even a special occasion dish, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, with its simple ingredients and make-ahead convenience, it’s a practical choice for any home cook.
Give this Loaded Potato and Meatloaf a try, and experience the delicious fusion of two comfort food favorites in one mouthwatering dish. Your family and friends will thank you!