Name: Loaded Potato Meatloaf Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; Salt and pepper to taste; Extra shredded cheese for topping

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve been searching for the ultimate comfort food mash-up, look no further than Loaded Potato Meatloaf. This delicious dish combines juicy, herb-flecked meatloaf with the creamy decadence of fully loaded baked potatoes, all on one fabulous plate. Savory ground beef is paired with luscious mashed potatoes, melty cheese, and fresh green onions, making every bite pure bliss. Whether you’re feeding a houseful of hungry guests or treating yourself to a cozy evening, Loaded Potato Meatloaf never fails to impress and satisfy.

Loaded Potato Meatloaf Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Loaded Potato Meatloaf brings something wonderful to the table, from the richness of the beef to the tang of sour cream and the gooey goodness of cheddar. These simple staples transform into a hearty, flavorful feast you’ll crave again and again.

Ground beef: Choose an 80/20 blend for juicy, flavorful meatloaf that holds together perfectly.
Small onion, finely chopped: Adds aromatic sweetness and moisture to the loaf.
Garlic, minced: Just two cloves infuse each bite with that unmistakable savory warmth.
Breadcrumbs: The key to a tender but sturdy meatloaf; use plain or seasoned based on your preference.
Large egg: Acts as the binding agent, making sure everything comes together seamlessly.
Milk: Softens the breadcrumbs and keeps the loaf moist from within.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds a deep umami kick that pairs beautifully with beef.
Ketchup: Gives the meatloaf moisture and a subtle tang; traditional and tasty.
Dried oregano: Enhances the loaf with earthy flavors.
Dried basil: Brings aromatic brightness that makes the meatloaf pop.
Salt and black pepper: Trust the classics—these two elevate all the flavors in the dish.
Russet potatoes: Their fluffy interior is perfect for creamy, loaded fillings.
Butter: Adds irresistible richness to the mashed potato mixture.
Sour cream: Provides tang and lush creaminess; skip it, and you’ll miss it!
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey perfection both inside and on top of the potatoes.
Chopped green onions: Lively, fresh flavor and a pop of color for finishing touches.
Extra shredded cheese for topping: Because who can say no to more melted cheese?

How to Make Loaded Potato Meatloaf

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf

Start by getting everything ready for your hearty Loaded Potato Meatloaf centerpiece. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix just until these ingredients are combined—overworking will make the loaf dense rather than tender, so stop as soon as everything is evenly distributed.

Step 2: Form the Meatloaf

Once the meat mixture is ready, shape it into a loaf—either freeform on a baking sheet for crispier edges or snugly nestled into a loaf pan for a more uniform shape. Pop it into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The magic number for doneness is an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). When time’s up, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes so all those savory juices stay locked in when you slice it.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

While the meatloaf bakes, turn your attention to the potatoes. Scrub your russets clean and poke them a few times with a fork—this helps release steam as they cook. For maximum flavor, bake them in the oven alongside the meatloaf for about 45 minutes, but a microwave for 8-10 minutes will do the trick if you’re short on time. Once they’re fork-tender, let them cool slightly, then slice in half and scoop the fluffy white insides into a mixing bowl, saving the skins for later.

Step 4: Make the Loaded Potato Filling

With the potatoes still warm, mash them together with butter, a generous dollop of sour cream, salt, and pepper until they’re creamy and dreamy. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions, and give everything a loving mix. This filling should be rich, tangy, cheesy, and flecked with pops of green that look as wonderful as they taste.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake the Loaded Potatoes

Take those reserved potato skins and refill them with your loaded mashed potato mixture, packing it in nicely. Top with a little extra shredded cheddar for good measure! Bake these assembled potato halves in the oven for another 5 to 10 minutes, or until you see the cheese melting into bubbly perfection. These are the ultimate sidekicks for your Loaded Potato Meatloaf.

Step 6: Serve It All Up

With everything ready, slice the juicy meatloaf and serve it alongside (or even slightly overlapping) the gooey loaded baked potatoes. For a finishing touch, sprinkle on more chopped green onions and, if you’d like, an extra dollop of sour cream to really drive home that indulgent, comforting vibe.

How to Serve Loaded Potato Meatloaf

Garnishes

Top slices of Loaded Potato Meatloaf with a scatter of fresh green onions or parsley for instant color and a burst of herby flavor. A swirl of sour cream or even a drizzle of extra ketchup adds creamy contrast and makes the plate pop with visual appeal. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits to take your garnishing game to the next level.

Side Dishes

The hearty dynamic duo of meatloaf and loaded baked potatoes can easily hold their own, but a light, crisp green salad or some garlicky roasted green beans make excellent supporting sides. They help balance all the richness and bring some freshness to the table. For something tangy, a bowl of pickled veggies works beautifully too!

Creative Ways to Present

For a showstopping presentation, stack a thick slice of Loaded Potato Meatloaf right on top of a loaded potato half, then shower it all with cheese and broil until bubbly. If you’re entertaining, serve individual portions in ramekins—mini meatloaves paired with loaded potato “boats” for each guest. You can even make bite-sized sliders for buffet-style gatherings—just top thick rounds of meatloaf with potato filling and secure with a toothpick!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Loaded Potato Meatloaf tasting freshly made, store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Both the meatloaf and loaded potatoes hold up well for up to 4 days. If you’re storing them together, lay a sheet of parchment or wax paper between the layers so the flavors stay distinct.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze both the meatloaf and loaded potatoes! Cool everything completely, then wrap meatloaf slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store the potatoes in freezer-safe bags or containers. They’ll stay tasty for up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

For the juiciest results, reheat meatloaf slices and loaded potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C), covered with foil, for about 15-20 minutes, until heated through. In a hurry? The microwave works too—heat at half-power in short bursts so the potatoes stay creamy and the meatloaf doesn’t dry out.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in Loaded Potato Meatloaf?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you want something lighter. Just watch the cook time, as turkey can dry out more quickly. A splash more milk or an extra dollop of sour cream will help keep the loaf moist and flavorful.

Can I make Loaded Potato Meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the meatloaf mixture, bake the potatoes, and even make the filling a day in advance. Assemble and bake the loaded potatoes just before serving for the freshest flavor. The robust flavors only deepen after resting, making it a great make-ahead dish.

What’s the best cheese for Loaded Potato Meatloaf?

Sharp cheddar is classic for loaded potatoes, but feel free to get creative! A blend of mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a smoky gouda melts beautifully and adds fun twists to the flavor profile. Just be sure it’s a cheese that gets ooey-gooey.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Replace the regular breadcrumbs with your favorite gluten-free variety, or try crushed gluten-free crackers or rolled oats. Double-check your Worcestershire sauce and ketchup, as some brands contain gluten, and you’re good to go!

Can I add bacon or other toppings to the potatoes?

Definitely! Crispy bacon crumbles, extra cheese, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted garlic—all are wonderful flavor-boosting additions to the loaded potatoes. Let your taste buds guide your creativity!

Final Thoughts

This Loaded Potato Meatloaf is pure comfort food magic—cozy, generous, and guaranteed to make loved ones smile around your table. Whether you’re fixing up a family feast or treating yourself to something special, give this recipe a try. You just might find it’s your new favorite way to bring together everything you love about homemade cooking!

Loaded Potato Meatloaf Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 16 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: None

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Description

A hearty and flavorful dish that combines a classic meatloaf with loaded baked potatoes, creating a satisfying and comforting meal.

Instructions

Prepare the Meatloaf – Preheat the 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.
Form the Meatloaf – 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). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cook the Potatoes – While the meatloaf bakes, scrub the potatoes 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 them in half, scoop out the insides, and place them in a bowl.
Make the Loaded Potato Filling – Mash the scooped-out potato with butter, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions until well combined.
Assemble and Bake the Loaded Potatoes – 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 – Serve the meatloaf alongside the loaded potatoes and garnish with additional green onions or a dollop of sour cream.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American