Description
If you’re searching for a comforting and hearty dish to please your family or guests, look no further than this loaded potato meatloaf. This recipe combines the classic flavors of meatloaf with the creamy goodness of loaded potatoes. The result is a flavorful and filling meal that’s sure to impress. Juicy ground beef melds perfectly with fluffy mashed potatoes, cheese, and crispy bacon for an ultimate comfort food experience. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Ground Beef
For this loaded potato meatloaf, you’ll need 1 pound of ground beef. Choose ground chuck for a balance of flavor and fat content. It helps keep the meatloaf moist while offering rich taste.
Mashed Potatoes
Use 2 cups of prepared mashed potatoes. You can use either homemade or store-bought versions. These potatoes add creaminess and a unique twist to the traditional meatloaf.
Bacon
Incorporate 4 strips of cooked bacon, chopped into small pieces. Bacon adds smokiness and crunch, enhancing both flavor and texture in your dish.
Cheddar Cheese
You’ll need 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. This cheese melts beautifully within the meat mixture, providing a gooey layer of deliciousness in every bite.
Egg
Add one large egg as a binder to hold all ingredients together. The egg helps maintain shape during cooking while adding richness to the overall flavor profile.
Onion
Use 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped. Onion adds sweetness and depth to the dish, making every slice burst with savory notes.
Garlic Powder
Include 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for additional flavor enhancement. Garlic powder provides a subtle kick without overpowering the other ingredients.
Salt and Pepper
Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper to taste. These staples ensure your loaded potato meatloaf is well-seasoned and flavorful throughout.
Instructions
Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your loaded potato meatloaf cooks evenly throughout while achieving a nice golden crust on top.
Prepare the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, mashed potatoes, chopped bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, garlic powder, egg, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything until well combined but avoid over-mixing to keep it tender.
Shape the Loaf
Transfer the mixture onto a sheet of parchment paper or directly onto your baking pan. Gently shape it into a loaf form about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide. Ensure it’s compact enough to hold its shape during cooking.
Bake the Meatloaf
Place the formed loaf in the preheated oven on the center rack. Bake for 45 minutes until fully cooked through; an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) indicates doneness. The outside should show a nice browned color for added flavor.
Add Toppings
If desired, sprinkle an additional layer of cheese on top about halfway through baking for extra cheesiness. You can also glaze it with BBQ sauce or ketchup during the last few minutes for added flavor.
Rest Before Slicing
Once baked to perfection, remove your loaded potato meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows juices to redistribute throughout the loaf for maximum juiciness when served.