Name: Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Lean ground beef; Instant mashed potatoes; Milk; Butter; Shredded cheddar cheese; Eggs; Ritz crackers (crushed); BBQ sauce; Green onions; Onion powder; Garlic powder; Salt; Pepper

This Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food dish that layers juicy meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and fresh green onions. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that brings together the best of two classic dinners in one irresistible bake.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this casserole merges the richness of a savory meatloaf with the comfort of loaded mashed potatoes. It’s warm, cheesy, and full of flavor with every bite. The green onions add a pop of freshness that balances out the richness, and it’s easy to put together on a weeknight or for a cozy weekend meal.

ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Lean ground beef
Instant mashed potatoes
Milk
Butter
Shredded cheddar cheese
Eggs
Ritz crackers (crushed)
BBQ sauce
Green onions
Onion powder
Garlic powder
Salt and pepper

directions

I cook the ground beef in a skillet until browned, then drain the fat.
I mix the beef with crushed crackers, eggs, BBQ sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
I spread the meat mixture into a greased 9x13 baking dish and bake it for about 30 minutes at 400°F.
While the meat layer bakes, I prepare the mashed potatoes using butter and milk, then stir in shredded cheddar cheese.
Once the meatloaf layer is cooked through, I spread the cheesy mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
I sprinkle additional shredded cheddar over the potatoes and return the dish to the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
I top the casserole with freshly chopped green onions just before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

I sometimes switch the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if I want something a little lighter. For extra flavor, I’ve added sautéed mushrooms or chopped spinach into the meat mixture. If I’m in the mood for a little heat, I mix a touch of hot sauce into the mashed potatoes or sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When I’m ready to reheat, I warm individual portions in the microwave for about 2 minutes or reheat the entire dish in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes, covered with foil to keep it moist.

FAQs

How do I make this casserole ahead of time?

I assemble the casserole completely, cover it, and refrigerate it. When I’m ready to serve, I bake it until hot and the cheese is melted.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, I freeze it before the final bake. I thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake until heated through.

Can I use homemade mashed potatoes?

Absolutely. I often make mashed potatoes from scratch when I have the time, and they work perfectly in this dish.

What other cheeses can I use?

I’ve used mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and even Colby. Any melty cheese that I enjoy works well in this recipe.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be! I replace the Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use a gluten-free BBQ sauce to make it gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Loaded Potato & Meatloaf Casserole is everything I crave in a comfort food dish—savory, creamy, and topped with melted cheese and green onions. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but delicious enough to serve to guests. I love how easy it is to make ahead, and the leftovers never disappoint.