Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole – The Southern Mash-Up You Didn’t Know You Needed

You know those dinners that just hit different? The kind where one bite takes you right back to your childhood kitchen, your favorite Sunday meal, or a cozy night that made everything feel okay again?

That’s what this Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is all about.

It’s rich, hearty, and full of comforting Southern flavor. You’ve got a classic meatloaf layer, a buttery mashed potato blanket, and all the loaded toppings—cheese, green onions, maybe even a dollop of sour cream. All baked into one golden, bubbly casserole dish.

When Meatloaf Met Mashed Potatoes

Growing up, meatloaf and mashed potatoes were always a combo in my house.

But one night, I had this idea: why not bake them together? Why not turn them into a layered, one-dish wonder that would save time and deliver maximum comfort?

I tried it, and wow. It was everything I wanted and more.

Why You’ll Love This

This loaded potato and meatloaf casserole isn’t just tasty—it’s:

Easy to prep ahead and bake when you’re ready
Packed with flavor and melty cheese
A family favorite that’s picky-eater approved
Perfect for cold weather, potlucks, or meal prep
A true Southern comfort food with a twist

Let’s get into it.

The Recipe: Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole

Ingredients

Meatloaf layer:

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1/4 cup milk
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon ketchup
Salt and pepper to taste

Mashed potato layer:

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
1/2 cup milk
3 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings:

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2–3 tablespoons chopped green onions
Optional: sour cream, turkey bacon crumbles, crushed seasoned crackers

Instructions

Step 1: Make the mashed potatoes
Peel, chop, and boil the potatoes in salted water until they’re tender—about 15–20 minutes.

Drain, mash, and mix in the butter and milk until creamy. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix the meatloaf layer
In a bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Mix just until everything comes together. Don’t overwork it.

Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 3: Layer and load it
Spread the mashed potatoes gently over the meat layer. Smooth out the top.

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the mashed potatoes.

Top with green onions and any other loaded baked potato toppings you love—sour cream dollops, turkey bacon, or a sprinkle of seasoned cracker crumbs.

Step 4: Bake it
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole, uncovered, for 30–35 minutes until the cheese is melted and the edges are bubbly.

Let it cool for 5–10 minutes before digging in.

Boost the Flavor

Want to make it even more irresistible? Here are some easy upgrades:

Use a combo of sharp cheddar and mozzarella for a gooey finish
Add a layer of cooked mushrooms or sautéed peppers between the meat and potatoes
Swirl in some garlic or sour cream into your mashed potatoes for an extra hit of flavor
Mix in some chopped pickles or a bit of BBQ sauce for a fun flavor twist

What to Serve It With

Honestly? This casserole is a meal all on its own.

But if you want to round it out:

Serve it with a side salad tossed in tangy vinaigrette
Add a scoop of coleslaw or green beans on the side
A tall glass of iced tea makes it feel extra Southern

Whether it’s a lazy weeknight or Sunday dinner, this dish always brings comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just bake it when you’re ready—add 5–10 extra minutes to account for the chill.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.

Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Let it cool fully, then freeze in portions. Reheat in the oven from frozen or let it thaw overnight.

Is it gluten-free?
It can be! Just swap regular breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version and check your condiments.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Totally. Ground turkey, chicken, or a mix works great—just adjust your seasonings as needed.

Bringing It All Together

This loaded potato and meatloaf casserole is more than just a meal. It’s the kind of food that makes people pause and say, “Wow, this tastes like home.”

It’s comforting, crowd-pleasing, and made with simple ingredients that you probably already have.

If you try it out, don’t forget to let me know what you think. Did you add your own spin? I’d love to hear your favorite toppings or swaps.

Save this one for your recipe box or pin it on Pinterest—it’s definitely a keeper.