📑 Table of Contents ▶

Part 1 — Loaded Potato Meatloaf Essentials
Fundamentals
Preparation/Setup
Directions
Part 2 — Perfecting the Loaded Potato Meatloaf
Technique
Tips/Tricks
Part 3 — Fine-Tuning Your Dish
Perfecting Results
Troubleshooting/Variations
Part 4 — Presenting Your Meal
Serving/Presentation
Pairings/Storage
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Loaded Potato Meatloaf

Creating a special meal brings joy and satisfaction. The aroma of a comforting loaded potato meatloaf wafts through the kitchen, calling everyone to gather around the table. This dish combines the hearty flavors of meatloaf and the creamy, cheesy goodness of loaded potatoes.

I remember the first time I made loaded potato meatloaf for my family. They couldn’t help but get excited as I shared how simple it was to prepare. The delightful blend of ground beef, spices, and the warmth of the potatoes created a meal that felt like a warm hug. It became a go-to recipe, especially on cold nights when comfort food is a must.

Loaded potato meatloaf has become more than just food; it represents a moment of connection. With each bite, I see smiles and hear laughter, reminding me why cooking is such a vital part of our lives. Join me in creating this delicious meal that’s sure to bring everyone together around the table.

Part 1 — Loaded Potato Meatloaf Essentials

Fundamentals

Loaded potato meatloaf offers a delightful twist on tradition, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. The foundation begins with high-quality ground beef, preferably 80/20 for that juicy texture. The blend of spices and aromatic vegetables, such as finely chopped onions and minced garlic, infuses the meat with flavor. Adding breadcrumbs helps bind everything together, giving the meatloaf its desired consistency.

Incorporating an egg and a splash of milk adds moisture and richness. Combining Worcestershire sauce and ketchup into your meat mix will result in a subtle depth of flavor, elevating this classic dish. Balancing herbs such as dried oregano and basil adds an aromatic touch without overpowering the comforting essence of the meal.

Preparation/Setup

Preparation for loaded potato meatloaf starts with the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure an even bake that caramelizes the exterior while keeping the inside moist. Next, gather your ingredients to streamline the process. Work in a spacious kitchen with ample room to mix, shape, and bake your meatloaf and loaded potatoes.

As you prepare the potatoes, make sure you scrub them clean before piercing them with a fork. This simple step ensures that the potatoes bake evenly, making the scooping process easier later on. By getting everything ready beforehand, you’ll embark on a stress-free cooking adventure that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.

Ingredients

For this loaded potato meatloaf, you will need:

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
¼ cup milk
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp ketchup
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
4 large russet potatoes
3 tbsp butter
½ cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup chopped green onions
Extra shredded cheese for topping
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.

Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Once the meatloaf is baked, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
While the meatloaf bakes, scrub the potatoes thoroughly and pierce them with a fork. Bake the potatoes in the oven for 45 minutes or microwave them for 8-10 minutes until tender.

Once cooked, cut each potato in half and scoop out the insides into a bowl.
Mash the scooped-out potato with butter, sour cream, salt, and pepper until smooth. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions until well combined.
Stuff the mashed potato mixture back into the potato skins and top with extra cheese. Bake in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve the meatloaf alongside the loaded potatoes, garnished with additional green onions or a dollop of sour cream.

Part 2 — Perfecting the Loaded Potato Meatloaf

Technique

Mastering the technique of preparing loaded potato meatloaf ensures a satisfying final result. Begin with quality ingredients as they significantly enhance flavors. When mixing, gently fold the ingredients; this avoids overworking the meat, leading to a tender loaf. Aim to ensure an even distribution of vegetables and spices throughout the beef.

Baking the meatloaf on a baking sheet instead of a loaf pan provides better airflow, resulting in a nicely browned crust. Monitor the internal temperature closely to achieve the perfect doneness; an instant-read thermometer will be your best friend here.

Tips/Tricks

Here are some handy tips to elevate your loaded potato meatloaf:

Replace breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or oatmeal for a gluten-free option.

Incorporate additional spices or herbs based on your preference for an exciting flavor twist.
For spicy lovers, consider mixing in some chopped jalapeños or adding hot sauce to the meat mixture.
If available, use a mixture of ground meats for a more complex flavor, such as turkey or chicken.

Leftover meatloaf can provide a delicious sandwich filling for the next day. Simply slice and serve it cold or reheated.

Part 3 — Fine-Tuning Your Dish

Perfecting Results

Achieving the ideal loaded potato meatloaf involves attention to detail. To keep the loaf moist, don’t skip out on the egg and milk; they bind the ingredients together while preventing dryness. If the meatloaf seems too dry before baking, consider adding a touch more milk.

Baking the potatoes perfectly is equally critical. Baking until fork-tender ensures an easy process for scooping out the insides. Adapt your baking time based on the size of the potatoes; larger ones may need more time.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If you encounter issues along the way, here are some common troubleshooting tips:

If your meatloaf is too dense, consider adding a little extra milk to loosen the mixture before baking.
If the exterior becomes too dark before reaching the proper internal temperature, cover it loosely with foil to finish cooking without further browning.

Don’t hesitate to customize the loaded potato filling. Options like bacon bits, sour cream, or different cheese varieties can personalize the dish.

Part 4 — Presenting Your Meal

Serving/Presentation

Beautiful presentation can enhance the dining experience. Slice the meatloaf into thick, hearty pieces, exposing the moist interior. Place the loaded potatoes beside the meatloaf on the plate. Garnish both dishes with a sprinkle of chopped green onions for a burst of color and freshness.

Serve the meatloaf on a large platter, allowing guests to help themselves. On the side, place additional toppings such as sour cream and extra cheese for guests to customize their servings.

Pairings/Storage

While loaded potato meatloaf provides a meal in itself, consider serving it with a fresh green salad for a balanced dinner. Corn on the cob or steamed green beans makes delightful sides that complement the richness of the dish.

Storage is straightforward; place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Simply reheat the meatloaf in the oven or microwave, and enjoy it with the loaded potatoes once again without compromising flavor.

Loaded potato meatloaf shines as a meal that brings warmth and joy to the table. Embrace this recipe, and enjoy the laughter and connection it fosters around shared meals. Cooking at home can transform simple ingredients into memorable moments.