If you’ve ever wished your cozy meatloaf had a creamy mashed potato hug, this Loaded Potato Meatloaf will make your comfort food dreams come true. Think of a tender, juicy meatloaf center wrapped in a fluffy, buttery mashed potato shell, then topped with crispy bacon, melty cheese, and chives. It’s essentially a shepherd’s pie and a classic meatloaf rolled into one spectacular dish.

Perfect for chilly nights, family dinners, or when you just need a hearty meal that feels like a warm blanket, this meatloaf is more than just a dinner—it’s an experience. It’s rich, satisfying, and makes incredible leftovers (if there are any!).

Why You’ll Love This Loaded Potato Meatloaf

This dish is a double-layered delight: the meatloaf delivers savory, seasoned depth while the mashed potato layer adds creaminess and comfort. The bacon and cheese topping makes it feel indulgent, while still being balanced. It’s also an excellent make-ahead meal, so you can prep it the night before and pop it in the oven when ready.

Can I Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes for the Topping?

Yes, and it’s a great shortcut! If you have leftover mashed potatoes, this is the perfect way to repurpose them. Just make sure they’re not overly runny so they hold their shape on top. If starting from scratch, whip them up with butter and a splash of milk or sour cream for extra creaminess.

Ingredients for the Loaded Potato Meatloaf

This dish relies on classic ingredients that come together in a unique way to make a showstopping dinner. Each component brings something essential to the table.

Ground beef
Onion
Garlic
Breadcrumbs
Egg
Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper
Mashed potatoes
Shredded cheddar cheese
Cooked bacon
Chives or green onions

The ground beef creates the hearty base, seasoned with onion, garlic, and Worcestershire for flavor depth. Breadcrumbs and egg bind the loaf together, ensuring it stays moist but firm. Mashed potatoes layer over the top, and that melty cheddar and crispy bacon finish it off with a crave-worthy bite.

How To Make the Loaded Potato Meatloaf

Step 1: Prep the Meatloaf Base

Preheat the oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, minced onion and garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined.

Step 2: Shape and Bake

Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a greased baking dish. Bake uncovered for about 40 minutes until nearly cooked through.

Step 3: Add the Potato Layer

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the top. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled cooked bacon over the mashed potatoes.

Step 4: Bake Again

Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the meatloaf is fully cooked through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Top with chopped chives or green onions just before serving.

How to Serve and Store Loaded Potato Meatloaf

This recipe makes enough to feed six hungry people comfortably. It slices beautifully once rested and is even better the next day after the flavors have had time to mingle. Serve it warm, straight from the oven, and store leftovers tightly covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat, use the oven or microwave. If you’re freezing, slice it into individual portions first and wrap tightly in foil before storing in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to two months.

What to Serve With Loaded Potato Meatloaf?

Roasted Green Beans

Their crisp-tender texture and light flavor balance the richness of the meatloaf.

Creamy Coleslaw

A tangy, crunchy counterpoint that brings freshness to the plate.

Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

Perfect for soaking up any extra mashed potatoes or meatloaf juices.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Deep, earthy umami flavors make mushrooms a great match for the beef.

Classic Caprese Salad

Tomato and mozzarella with fresh basil adds a light and colorful bite [https://janetdishes.com/classic-caprese-salad-recipe/].

No Peek Chicken Casserole

Make it a comfort food night with this oven-baked favorite [https://janetdishes.com/no-peek-chicken-casserole/].

Roasted Asparagus

Simple yet elegant, asparagus brings a pop of green and a slight crunch [https://janetdishes.com/roasted-asparagus-recipe/].

Lemon Churro Cookies

Finish off your meal with a sweet, citrusy dessert [https://janetdishes.com/lemon-truffles-recipe/].

Want More Comfort Food Ideas?

If you’re in love with this hearty Loaded Potato Meatloaf, you might also enjoy these warm, satisfying meals:

Ooey Gooey Butter Cake for a melt-in-your-mouth dessert.
Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta when you’re craving something cheesy and saucy.
Creamy Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Potatoes, and Mushrooms if you want a full one-pan meal.
Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl for a lighter but still cozy dinner.
One Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni to bring that Italian-inspired creaminess to your table.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you mix in garlic to the potatoes? Try a different cheese blend? I’m always curious how others put their spin on it.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to comfort recipes.

Conclusion

Loaded Potato Meatloaf brings two comfort food giants into one irresistible dish. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings or just satisfying your soul midweek. The textures, the layers, the flavors—it all works together beautifully. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or prepping lunches for the week, this meatloaf is sure to become a repeat favorite.