Let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: loaded potato meatloaf dinner! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, combining the savory goodness of classic meatloaf with the creamy, cheesy delight of loaded mashed potatoes. Every bite is packed with flavor, and the aroma that fills my kitchen while it’s baking? Wow! It’s simply irresistible. I remember the first time I made this for my family; their faces lit up with joy, and that moment solidified it as a weekly staple in our home. It’s hearty, satisfying, and brings everyone together around the dinner table. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why I can’t get enough of this delicious meal!

Ingredients for Loaded Potato Meatloaf Dinner

Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients to whip up your loaded potato meatloaf dinner. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect blend of meatloaf and cheesy goodness!

1 lb ground beef
1 cup mashed potatoes
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup diced onions
1 egg
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup ketchup
1/2 cup milk

Make sure to have everything prepped and measured out before you start mixing, so you can easily get into the flow of making this delightful dish!

How to Prepare Loaded Potato Meatloaf Dinner

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this loaded potato meatloaf dinner! I’ll walk you through each step so you can create a delicious meal that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). Trust me, preheating is super important! It helps ensure your meatloaf cooks evenly and develops that lovely, golden crust. You want your meatloaf to be perfectly baked, not undercooked or overdone, so don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. I like to use my hands for this—just dive in and mix everything together until it’s well combined. This way, you really get all those flavors integrated! Just make sure not to overmix; you want to keep that tender texture.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

Once everything is mixed, it’s time to shape your meatloaf! Take the mixture and form it into a loaf shape, about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide. Place it gently into a baking dish, making sure it holds together nicely. If it feels too loose, you can add a bit more breadcrumbs to help bind it. But don’t worry too much; it will firm up as it bakes!

Step 4: Add Topping

Now, let’s add that delicious ketchup topping! Spread it evenly over the top of your meatloaf. This not only gives it a beautiful glaze but also adds a nice tangy flavor that complements the savory meat and cheesy potatoes. Yum!

Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf

Pop your meatloaf into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 1 hour. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) and the juices run clear. If you have a meat thermometer, now’s the time to use it! No one likes a dry meatloaf, so keep an eye on it as it bakes.

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Once your meatloaf is out of the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your slices moist and flavorful. Trust me, you’ll want to let it rest—impatient slicing can lead to a crumbly mess, and we definitely don’t want that!

Tips for Success with Loaded Potato Meatloaf Dinner

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your loaded potato meatloaf dinner turns out absolutely perfect every time! Trust me, these little tricks make a world of difference.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Before you start mixing, let your egg and mashed potatoes sit out for about 15-20 minutes. This helps everything blend together smoothly and evenly.
Don’t Overmix: When combining your ingredients, be gentle! Overmixing can lead to a tough meatloaf. Just mix until everything is combined, and you’re good to go.
Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 160°F (70°C) for perfectly cooked meatloaf. If you don’t have one, make sure the juices run clear when you cut into it.
Let It Rest: Seriously, don’t skip the resting period! It’s key to keeping your meatloaf juicy. Plus, it makes slicing so much easier!
Customize Your Mix-Ins: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients! Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or even bacon bits can elevate your meatloaf to the next level.
Serve with Style: Pair your meatloaf with a side of extra mashed potatoes and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for that restaurant-quality presentation. It’s all about the details!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with this comforting, flavorful meal. Enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Information for Loaded Potato Meatloaf Dinner

Wondering about the nutritional value of this loaded potato meatloaf dinner? Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 20g

This hearty dish is not only comforting but also provides a good balance of protein and carbs, making it a satisfying meal option. Enjoy it guilt-free knowing you’re treating yourself to something both delicious and nourishing!

FAQ about Loaded Potato Meatloaf Dinner

Got questions about making this loaded potato meatloaf dinner? I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common questions I hear, along with my tried-and-true answers to help you out.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great substitute if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just be mindful that the flavor and texture might change a bit, but it’ll still be delicious!

How should I store leftovers?

Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing it up. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 2 months.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You bet! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just shape it into a loaf before baking. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights!

What can I serve with this meatloaf?

While extra mashed potatoes are a must, you can also pair it with steamed veggies, a fresh salad, or even some roasted Brussels sprouts for a colorful, balanced plate!

Can I add other ingredients to the meatloaf?

For sure! Feel free to get creative. You can add in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or even some cooked bacon to the mix. Just remember to adjust the breadcrumbs if you’re adding more moisture!

Why does my meatloaf fall apart?

If your meatloaf is crumbling, it might be due to too much moisture or not enough binding ingredients. Make sure to mix in enough breadcrumbs and let it rest before slicing for better cohesion!

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, you can! Just be sure to prepare them according to the package instructions before mixing them in. They’ll work just fine in this recipe!

With these answers in mind, you’re all set to tackle any questions that pop up while making your loaded potato meatloaf dinner. Enjoy the cooking process and the delicious results!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This loaded potato meatloaf dinner is a true crowd-pleaser, and here’s why you’re going to adore it just as much as I do!

Hearty and Satisfying: It’s like a meal that wraps you in a warm blanket; every bite is filling and comforting!
Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this delicious dish on the table in no time.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, savory flavors, making it a hit for family dinners.
Versatile: Feel free to customize it with your favorite mix-ins and sides to make it your own.
Leftover Magic: It tastes even better the next day! Perfect for meal prep or quick lunches.
Budget-Friendly: Using basic ingredients, this meal is easy on the wallet without sacrificing flavor.

With all these fantastic benefits, you’ll find yourself wanting to make this loaded potato meatloaf dinner over and over again. Trust me, it’s going to become a beloved favorite in your home!

For more delicious recipes, check out our all recipes page!

Also, if you’re interested in side dishes, consider making honey-glazed carrots to complement your meal!

Lastly, for a different take on comfort food, you might enjoy our creamy Italian sausage pasta recipe!

Loaded Potato Meatloaf Dinner: 5 Comforting Reasons to Love

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 80 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Calorie

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty loaded potato meatloaf dinner that combines flavors of meatloaf with cheesy potatoes.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, mix ground beef, mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, onions, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
Spread ketchup on top of the meatloaf.
Bake for 1 hour or until cooked through.
Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Serve with extra mashed potatoes on the side.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 350
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: loaded potato meatloaf dinner

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