Loaded Potato Meatloaf

This Loaded Potato Meatloaf recipe is the ultimate comfort food mashup for cozy nights at home. Combining savory, juicy meatloaf with creamy, cheesy stuffed potatoes, it checks every box for a family-friendly meal that feels both classic and a little bit special. Whenever we have leftover mashed potatoes, I love giving them new life with this dish—my family requests it nonstop, especially when the temperatures drop.

The first time I made this for my family, everyone went back for seconds and it instantly became one of our Sunday dinner favorites. There is something about the crispy potato skins and cheesy topping that just makes everyone happy.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: provides a rich, meaty base with classic flavor Choose an 80-85 percent lean blend for best juiciness
• Finely chopped onion: brings sweetness and depth Look for firm onions with shiny skins
• Minced garlic: adds aromatic punch Always use fresh cloves for more robust flavor
• Breadcrumbs: help bind and keep the meatloaf moist Go for plain or homemade for the cleanest flavor
• Large egg: gives structure and tenderness Opt for free-range eggs with deep yellow yolks
• Milk: lightens the texture Whole milk yields the creamiest results
• Worcestershire sauce: delivers tangy umami complexity A splash goes a long way so choose a classic brand
• Ketchup: adds sweetness and color Tomato-based ketchup is best
• Dried oregano and basil: bring herby warmth for extra flavor Be sure your dried herbs are fragrant and not stale
• Salt and black pepper: are essentials for savoriness Freshly ground black pepper is worth the extra step
• Russet potatoes: are the best for baking thanks to their fluffy texture Look for potatoes with smooth skins and no green spots
• Butter: creates that creamy richness unsalted is key for adjusting flavor
• Sour cream: makes the filling tangy and extra smooth Full-fat is best for creaminess
• Shredded cheddar cheese: lends gooey melting power Buy block cheese and shred yourself for superior melt
• Chopped green onions: offer color and a fresh, mild bite Crisp green tops mean maximum flavor
• Extra cheddar cheese: creates that classic loaded potato finish Grate fresh for best results
• Salt and pepper to taste: are the final finishing touches Always taste and adjust as needed

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix the Meatloaf:

In a large bowl gently combine ground beef onion garlic breadcrumbs egg milk Worcestershire sauce ketchup oregano basil salt and pepper Mix lightly until everything is just blended so the meat stays tender

Shape and Bake the Meatloaf:

Mold the mixture into a loaf shape and place on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for forty to forty five minutes until the internal temperature registers 160 on a meat thermometer Let the loaf rest uncovered for ten minutes to hold in the juices

Prepare the Potatoes:

While the meatloaf is baking scrub russet potatoes and pierce them with a fork Arrange the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for forty five minutes until the skins feel crisp and a fork slides in easily Alternatively you can microwave on high for eight to ten minutes until soft

Scoop and Mash:

Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle cut them in half and carefully scoop out the insides into a mixing bowl Take care not to tear the skins Mash the potato filling with butter and sour cream season generously with salt and pepper for maximum flavor

Add the Mix-Ins:

Fold in shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions until evenly combined This is where the magic happens with melty cheese and savory onions blending into every bite

Fill and Bake Again:

Stuff the mashed potato mixture back into the potato skins Top each with extra cheddar cheese Arrange on a baking sheet and return to the oven for five to ten minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden

Serve:

Slice the rested meatloaf Serve alongside hot loaded potato halves Garnish with extra green onions or a generous spoonful of sour cream

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You cannot beat homemade meatloaf on a chilly evening and these loaded potatoes are pure nostalgia for me My kids always sneak extra cheese from the bowl before it even gets to the oven and it has become a little tradition in our kitchen

Storage Tips

Store slices of meatloaf in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days Potatoes keep best if you wrap them in foil to keep them from drying out For longer storage both freeze well Wrap potatoes individually and pack slices of meatloaf with a double layer of plastic and foil Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently

Ingredient Swaps

You can use ground turkey or a beef pork blend for the meatloaf for a lighter or richer flavor If you like a little heat stir in diced jalapenos to the potato filling Try Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese if cheddar is not available For gluten free use crushed rice crackers in place of breadcrumbs

Serving Ideas

A crisp green salad or roasted green beans pair beautifully for a balanced meal You can also spoon warm marinara over the meatloaf for an Italian twist or add a sprinkle of crispy bacon on top of the potatoes for extra indulgence

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A Bit of History

Meatloaf has been a staple in American kitchens since the early twentieth century as a thrifty way to stretch meat and use up odds and ends Pairing it with potatoes elevates it to comfort classic status Combining the two was a game changer for weeknight dinners in my house

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I keep the meatloaf moist?

Mix just until combined and don't overwork the beef. Adding milk and breadcrumbs also helps lock in moisture.

→ What potatoes work best for the loaded filling?

Russet potatoes are ideal; they're starchy and mash well, creating a creamy, fluffy texture for the filling.

→ Can I add extra vegetables to this dish?

Yes, try finely grated carrots, zucchini, or spinach in the meat mixture for added nutrients and flavor.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Place leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

→ What toppings go well with loaded potatoes?

Extra cheddar, chopped green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits all work well as toppings.

→ Can this be prepared ahead of time?

Both meatloaf and loaded potatoes can be assembled in advance. Store in the fridge, then bake before serving.