Loaded Potato Meatloaf

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When you’re craving the ultimate comfort food with a twist, this Loaded Potato Meatloaf is a knockout. Imagine tender, flavorful meatloaf filled with all your baked potato favorites: creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions. It’s like your favorite side dish and main course had the most delicious baby.

This isn’t your average meatloaf. It’s hearty, indulgent, and irresistibly rich in flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal-prepping for the week, or bringing a dish to impress at a potluck, this recipe delivers every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Loaded Potato Meatloaf

This dish brings together everything we love about meatloaf and elevates it to something extra special. The mashed potato topping melts into the savory beef, the cheese gets perfectly gooey, and the bacon gives it that crave-worthy crunch. Plus, it’s an entire meal in one pan, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy it.

Can I Use Instant Mashed Potatoes Instead of Fresh?

Yes, you absolutely can! While homemade mashed potatoes offer unbeatable texture and taste, instant mashed potatoes are a great time-saving shortcut. Just make sure they’re thick enough to sit on top of the meatloaf without sliding off during baking.

Ingredients for the Loaded Potato Meatloaf

This meatloaf isn’t just about the meat — it’s all about the layers. Each ingredient plays a role in making this dish comforting and unforgettable.

Ground beef gives the base its meaty richness and structure. Choose an 80/20 blend for a good balance of flavor and tenderness.

Breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf while keeping it moist.

Eggs are essential for holding everything together.

Worcestershire sauce adds deep umami flavor.

Garlic powder and onion powder enhance the savory notes without adding moisture.

Salt and black pepper to taste for perfect seasoning.

Mashed potatoes (fresh or instant) create that iconic loaded topping.

Cheddar cheese brings the creamy, melty goodness.

Bacon adds smoky crunch and savory flair.

Green onions offer a fresh contrast to all the rich ingredients.

How To Make the Loaded Potato Meatloaf

Step 1: Prep the Meatloaf Base

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix just until everything is incorporated. Don’t overmix or it can get tough.

Step 2: Shape and Bake

Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish or loaf pan. Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes uncovered.

Step 3: Add the Loaded Potato Topping

Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the partially baked meatloaf. Sprinkle cheddar cheese generously on top, followed by cooked crumbled bacon.

Step 4: Final Bake

Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Top with fresh chopped green onions just before slicing and serving.

How to Serve and Store Loaded Potato Meatloaf

This recipe comfortably serves 6 to 8 people, making it a fantastic family-style dinner or a hearty option for leftovers. Serve it hot from the oven with a side salad or roasted veggies to balance the richness.

To store, allow it to cool completely. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. You can also freeze individual slices for easy lunches or dinners — just reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

What to Serve With Loaded Potato Meatloaf?

A Simple Arugula Salad

The peppery greens help balance out the richness of the dish.

Roasted Garlic Green Beans

Their brightness and slight crunch pair well with the creamy topping.

Buttered Corn on the Cob

An easy side that adds color and sweetness.

Honey-Glazed Carrots

A touch of natural sweetness makes a lovely contrast to the savory meatloaf.

Steamed Broccoli with Lemon

Keeps things fresh and light.

Balsamic Mushrooms

Deep, earthy mushrooms are a cozy companion.

Herbed Dinner Rolls

Soft, warm rolls are perfect for soaking up every flavorful bite.

Apple Slaw

For a cool, crunchy contrast with a hint of tartness.

Want More Dinner Ideas?

If you’re all about recipes that feel like a warm hug, you’ll love these comforting meals from Luna Meals:

• Try our Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup when you’re in the mood for a cozy, one-bowl meal.
• This Smothered Chicken and Rice is pure comfort in every forkful.
• Whip up the crowd-pleasing Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese when you want fun, cheesy flavor fast.
• Enjoy the hearty flavors of our Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet for a balanced and satisfying skillet dinner.
• And if you’re in the mood for a twist, this Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potato Bake gives you those same “loaded” vibes, slow-cooked to perfection.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add chives or stick with green onions? Did you go for the homemade mashed potatoes or keep it quick with instant?

I love seeing your spins on these comfort classics. Questions are always welcome too — let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinner ideas on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your next favorite cozy meal.

Conclusion

Loaded Potato Meatloaf isn’t just dinner. It’s the kind of recipe that warms you from the inside out and brings people to the table fast. With its layers of savory beef, creamy potatoes, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon, it checks every comfort food box. Keep this one in your rotation for those nights when nothing but a hearty, homey meal will do.

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