Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole 

Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines two beloved comfort foods into one satisfying meal. This casserole features a savory meatloaf base topped with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and crispy bacon, creating a flavorful and filling dinner option. It's perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

• 1½ pounds lean ground beef

• ½ cup finely chopped white onion

• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

• 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 large egg, lightly beaten

• ⅓ cup cottage cheese

• ½ cup BBQ sauce

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and diced

• ½ cup unsalted butter

• ½ cup sour cream

• ½ cup warm milk or half-and-half

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

For Topping:

• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled

• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

 Directions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.

2. Prepare Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, beaten egg, cottage cheese, and BBQ sauce. Mix until just combined.

3. Assemble Meatloaf Layer: Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared baking dish, pressing it evenly to form a solid layer.nd bake for 30 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and browned on top.

4. Prepare Mashed Potatoes: While the meatloaf is baking, place the peeled and diced potatoes in a large pot. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.

5. Mash Potatoes: Add butter, sour cream, warm milk, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy.

6. Assemble Casserole: Once the meatloaf is done, spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.

7. Add Bacon: Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the cheese layer.

8. Final Bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

 Nutritional Information (Per Serving  Approximate)

• Calories: 540 kcal

• Protein: 30g

• Fat: 30g

• Carbohydrates: 35g

• Saturated Fat: 12g

• Cholesterol: 90mg

• Sodium: 800mg

• Potassium: 800mg

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 5g