The Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole is a heartwarming, comforting dish that combines the savory, juicy flavors of meatloaf with the creamy, smooth texture of mashed potatoes. This dish is perfect for family dinners, offering a delicious twist on traditional meatloaf by topping it with a layer of buttery mashed potatoes, crispy bacon bits, and melted cheddar cheese. It's a complete meal in itself, delivering rich flavors and a satisfying blend of textures.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds of Ground Beef (85/15)
- ¼ of a yellow onion, finely chopped
- ⅔ cup of seasoned dry breadcrumbs
- ⅓ cup of whole milk (for meatloaf)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- ½ teaspoon of Kosher salt (for meatloaf)
- ¼ teaspoon of coarse ground black pepper (for meatloaf)
- 2 pounds of potatoes, peeled and cut into 1" chunks
- ⅓ cup of unsalted butter (for mashed potatoes)
- ½ cup of whole milk (for mashed potatoes)
- 1 teaspoon of kosher salt (for mashed potatoes)
- ¼ teaspoon of coarse ground black pepper (for mashed potatoes)
- ½ cup of Beef bits, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup of cheddar cheese, shredded
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole cooks evenly.
Step 2: Begin with the meatloaf mixture. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped yellow onion, seasoned breadcrumbs, ⅓ cup of whole milk, beaten egg, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix the ingredients thoroughly but avoid overworking the meat to keep it tender.
Step 3: Transfer the meatloaf mixture to a baking dish and shape it into an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Step 4: While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the mashed potatoes. Place the peeled and chopped potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Step 5: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add ⅓ cup of unsalted butter, ½ cup of whole milk, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Step 7: Sprinkle the mashed potato layer with the cooked and crumbled bacon bits and then top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 8: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
COOKING Note:
Ensure that the meatloaf is fully cooked before adding the mashed potato layer. This is crucial for both food safety and texture.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole warm, perhaps with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Tips:
- Draining Potatoes: Ensure the potatoes are well-drained to prevent watery mashed potatoes.
- Seasoning Adjustments: Taste and adjust the seasoning of the mashed potatoes before adding them to the casserole.
- Meatloaf Variations: Feel free to add herbs or grated cheese to the meatloaf mixture for additional flavors.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors and textures.
Prep Time:
- 20 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 45-50 minutes
Total Time:
- 65-70 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 500-600 calories per serving
- Protein: Roughly 25-30 grams per serving
- Sodium: Estimated 600-700 mg per serving
Conclusion
The Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole is a hearty, fulfilling dish that combines two beloved comfort foods into one delicious meal. It's perfect for a cozy family dinner and is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. The layers of savory meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheese create a symphony of flavors and textures that make this dish a standout.
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