Craving comfort food with a twist? This Loaded Potato Meatloaf might just be your new favorite dinner. Imagine a tender, savory meatloaf infused with the rich flavors of garlic, onion, and herbs, layered with creamy mashed potatoes, melty cheese, and topped with crispy bacon and fresh chives. It’s everything you love about meatloaf and a loaded baked potato—in one delicious slice.

This dish combines homestyle goodness with weeknight convenience. It bakes up beautifully, holds its shape when sliced, and makes for the ultimate crowd-pleaser whether you’re feeding a family or impressing guests at a casual dinner party. Rich, cheesy, and full of flavor, this is the meatloaf reimagined for modern comfort food lovers.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To bring this loaded potato meatloaf to life, you’ll need a few kitchen essentials that really make a difference:

Mixing Bowls: For combining the meat mixture and preparing the potato layer separately.
Meatloaf Pan or Loaf Pan: A standard loaf pan gives the meatloaf its structure. You can also use a baking sheet lined with foil if you prefer a free-form shape.
Potato Masher or Ricer: Crucial for smooth mashed potatoes that layer beautifully.
Oven-safe Spatula or Offset Spreader: Helps spread mashed potatoes evenly over the meat.
Aluminum Foil: Keeps everything moist during the initial bake.
Meat Thermometer: Optional but very helpful to ensure your meatloaf is fully cooked (internal temp should reach 160°F).

Using the right tools not only makes prep more efficient, but also ensures even cooking and that iconic layered presentation that makes this dish shine.

Ingredients for the Loaded Potato Meatloaf

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in bringing out the dish’s ultimate comfort and flavor.

Ground Beef: The base of the meatloaf. Choose 80/20 for a perfect balance of moisture and richness.
Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meat mixture and absorb flavorful juices.
Eggs: Crucial for structure and binding.
Onion & Garlic: Freshly chopped for aromatic depth and savory kick.
Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami and that classic meatloaf richness.
Salt & Pepper: Seasoning essentials.
Mashed Potatoes: The signature twist. Smooth, buttery mashed potatoes layer on top and inside.
Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the potatoes and meat for gooey goodness.
Cooked Bacon: Crumbled on top for smoky crunch.
Chives: Brings a fresh pop and color to finish.

How To Make the Loaded Potato Meatloaf

Step 1: Prep the Mashed Potatoes

Make your mashed potatoes first so they can cool slightly. Use russet or Yukon gold potatoes, mash with butter, salt, and a splash of milk until smooth.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Base

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, finely chopped onion, garlic, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined to avoid a tough loaf.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

In a greased loaf pan, press half the meat mixture down. Layer with half of the mashed potatoes and a generous sprinkle of cheddar cheese. Add the remaining meat mixture and press down evenly.

Step 4: Top and Bake

Spread the remaining mashed potatoes over the top and sprinkle with more cheese. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes.

Step 5: Uncover and Crisp

Remove foil, top with crumbled bacon, and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbling and golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let it rest for 10 minutes. Sprinkle chopped chives on top before slicing and serving.

How to Serve and Store This Loaded Potato Meatloaf

This hearty dish is best served warm, right out of the oven when the cheese is still gooey and the bacon is crisp. It pairs perfectly with a simple green salad, steamed veggies, or even garlic bread for a full comfort food spread. Slice it thick and serve with extra chives or a dollop of sour cream if you’re feeling indulgent.

For storing, let the meatloaf cool completely. Wrap slices individually or transfer to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it—wrap tightly in foil and store for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a touch of water or broth if needed to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the meatloaf from drying out?

Use beef with some fat content (like 80/20), and don’t overmix your meat mixture. Baking it covered initially helps lock in moisture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire meatloaf a day ahead and store it in the fridge covered. Bake when ready to serve.

What type of potatoes work best?

Russet or Yukon gold are ideal. They mash smoothly and have great flavor.

Is there a substitute for cheddar cheese?

Yes—try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend for a different twist.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Definitely. Just add a little extra seasoning or a splash of olive oil to keep it juicy.

Do I need to use a loaf pan?

A loaf pan gives it that classic shape, but you can also form it freehand on a baking sheet for a rustic look.

Want More Comfort Food Casserole Ideas?

If this Loaded Potato Meatloaf has you craving more cozy and filling meals, you’re in for a treat.

Try my Sloppy Joe Casserole, which offers the same meaty satisfaction with a cheesy biscuit topping. Or dive into Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole for a veggie-forward classic that still brings the comfort.

Feeling more adventurous? The Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe adds spice to your pasta night, while the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta is a creamy, kid-friendly favorite.

And for a lighter but still satisfying option, don’t skip the Italian Grinder Salad — crunchy, tangy, and loaded with deli meats.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your dinner boards for later. Just tap the Pin button and keep it handy for a cozy weeknight meal.

If you give it a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you mix up the cheese? Add some heat? Drop a comment below and let me know what your twist on it was.

For more recipe inspiration, follow me on Pinterest @LadyPlate where I share comfort food recipes every day!

Loaded Potato Meatloaf

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Loaded Potato Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food hybrid. It combines the juicy tenderness of classic meatloaf with layers of creamy mashed potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and a crisp bacon topping. It’s hearty, rich, and perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep for the week.

Instructions

1. Make the mashed potatoes first. Boil peeled potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, salt, and milk until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.

2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a standard loaf pan or line a baking sheet with foil.

3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.

4. Press half the meat mixture into the bottom of the pan. Spread half of the mashed potatoes over it. Sprinkle with 3/4 cup of cheddar cheese.

5. Add the remaining meat mixture on top and press it down evenly. Then layer on the remaining mashed potatoes and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar.

6. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

7. Remove foil, top with crumbled bacon, and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

8. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh chives. Serve warm.