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Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole: A Hearty and Homestyle Delight for Beginner Cooks

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Hearty meatloaf topped with creamy mashed potatoes, bacon, and cheddar. A simple, satisfying casserole perfect for beginners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef or turkey
  • ½ cup chopped white onion
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • ⅓ cup cottage cheese
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce
  • 2 pounds potatoes, diced
  • ½ cup butter
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ cup milk or half-and-half
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked, crumbled
  • 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and prevents the casserole from becoming soggy.
  • Prepare the Meatloaf Layer:
    • In a large bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, egg, cottage cheese, and BBQ sauce.
    • Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined. Use your hands or a spoon to thoroughly mix the ingredients.
    • Press the meatloaf mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly.
  • Bake the Meatloaf Layer:
    • Bake the meatloaf layer for 25 minutes. This partially cooks the meatloaf and allows the flavors to meld.
  • Prepare the Potato Layer:
    • While the meatloaf is baking, cook the diced potatoes in a pot of boiling water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Use a fork to test the potatoes for tenderness.
    • Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
    • Mash the potatoes with butter, sour cream, warm milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Use a potato masher or an electric mixer for best results.
  • Assemble the Casserole:
    • Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the partially baked meatloaf layer. Use a spatula to create a smooth and even layer.
    • Top with cooked and crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese. Sprinkle the bacon and cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes.
  • Bake the Casserole:
    • Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
    • Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and prevents burns.

Notes

  • Use lean ground meat.
  • Warm milk for smoother potatoes.
  • Cook bacon until crispy.
  • Check meatloaf temperature.

Find it online: https://paularecipes.com/loaded-potato-and-meatloaf-casserole-a-hearty-and-homestyle-delight-for-beginner-cooks/