→ LET'S MAKE IT! ♥
1. PREHEAT THE OVEN
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. PREPARE THE MEATLOAF
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, milk, ketchup, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
Mix gently until everything is combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
3. FORM THE FIRST LAYER
Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
4. BAKE THE MEATLOAF
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the meat is mostly cooked. Carefully drain any excess grease.
5. PREPARE THE POTATO TOPPING
In a separate bowl, combine the prepared mashed potatoes, sour cream, and melted butter. Stir until smooth and creamy.
6. ASSEMBLE THE CASSEROLE
Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the partially cooked meatloaf.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes, followed by the crumbled bacon.
7. BAKE UNTIL GOLDEN
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, the potatoes are heated through, and the center of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C).
8. GARNISH AND SERVE
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5–10 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving.
Slice into generous portions and enjoy!
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✧ LITTLE SECRETS FOR THE BEST CASSEROLE
♥ Use creamy mashed potatoes. They spread easily and create a delicious, fluffy topping.
♥ Don't overmix the beef. Gentle mixing helps keep the meatloaf tender and juicy.
♥ Drain excess grease. This prevents the potato layer from becoming oily.
♥ Shred your own cheddar. Freshly shredded cheese often melts more smoothly.
♥ Let it rest before serving. A few minutes of resting helps the casserole hold its shape.
❀ WHAT TO SERVE WITH IT
✓ Buttery green beans
✓ Roasted broccoli
✓ A crisp garden salad
✓ Honey-glazed carrots
✓ Warm dinner rolls
♥ MAKE-AHEAD & STORAGE TIPS
Make Ahead: Prepare the meatloaf mixture and mashed potatoes separately, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Assemble and bake when ready, allowing extra time if the ingredients are cold.
Refrigerator: Store cooked leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
Freezer: Freeze cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2–3 months for best quality.
Reheating: Cover and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated thoroughly to 165°F (74°C).
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✦ TELL ME IN THE COMMENTS!
Are you a fan of extra cheddar cheese or extra crispy bacon on your loaded potatoes? ♥
Save this delicious casserole for your next family dinner, and share it with someone who loves homemade comfort food!
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Thank you for spending a little time with us today. ❤️
✍️ Written with care by BASSMA EL-HAZIBI
