Best Meatloaf Casserole with Mashed Potatoes

There’s something so comforting about combining two classic dinner favorites into one dish. Growing up, both meatloaf and mashed potatoes were regular features at our family table, but it wasn’t until I started cooking for my own family that I thought to put them together. Now, this meatloaf casserole has become one of our go-to meals when we need something filling and familiar.

What I really like about this recipe is how it makes weeknight cooking simpler. Instead of juggling multiple pots and pans, everything comes together in one baking dish. I usually prep the meatloaf mixture while the potatoes are boiling, and before I know it, dinner’s in the oven. It’s the kind of meal that makes the whole house smell good and brings everyone to the table without having to call twice.

What Kind of Ground Meat Should I Use?

For this meatloaf casserole, you’ve got two great options – ground beef or ground turkey. If you’re going with beef, look for a lean mix that’s about 85% to 90% lean, which gives you enough fat to keep the meatloaf juicy without making it greasy. Ground turkey can be a lighter alternative, but try to avoid the super lean turkey breast – the 93% lean variety will give you better results. When you’re at the store, check that the meat is fresh and has a nice pink color (for beef) or light pink color (for turkey), and avoid any packages with excess liquid at the bottom. Just remember that whichever meat you choose, you’ll want to mix it gently when combining with other ingredients to keep your meatloaf tender rather than tough.

Options for Substitutions

This comforting casserole has plenty of room for swaps if you’re missing something:

• Ground meat: While the recipe calls for ground beef or turkey, you can use ground chicken, pork, or even a mix of meats. Just keep the fat content similar to maintain the right texture.
• Bread crumbs: Out of bread crumbs? Crush some crackers, use rolled oats, or even crushed cornflakes. Just make sure to use about the same amount to keep the meatloaf from getting too wet.
• Cottage cheese: You can swap cottage cheese with ricotta cheese, or even cream cheese if that’s what you have on hand. This ingredient adds moisture, so don’t skip it completely.
• Sour cream: For the mashed potatoes, plain Greek yogurt works great instead of sour cream. You’ll get the same tangy taste and creamy texture.
• Bacon: No bacon? Try using crispy fried onions, crushed potato chips, or just skip it – the dish will still taste great.
• Cheddar cheese: Feel free to use any melting cheese you like – Monterey Jack, Colby, or a cheese blend all work well here.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

The biggest mistake when making meatloaf casserole is overmixing the meat mixture, which can lead to a dense, tough final product – instead, mix just until the ingredients are combined, using gentle hands or a fork. A common error with mashed potatoes is adding cold dairy products, which can make them gluey and unpleasant, so make sure your milk and butter are warmed before incorporating them into the potatoes. To prevent a greasy casserole, drain any excess fat from the meatloaf after it’s partially cooked and before adding the mashed potato layer. For the best texture, avoid overworking the potatoes while mashing – stop as soon as they’re smooth, as excessive mashing can make them sticky and gummy. Finally, let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to help it set properly, making it easier to serve neat portions.

What to Serve With Meatloaf Casserole?

Since this meatloaf casserole already includes mashed potatoes, you’ll want to focus on lighter sides that balance out the richness of the dish. A simple steamed or roasted vegetable like green beans, carrots, or broccoli adds nice color and freshness to your plate. For a pop of brightness, try serving a crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette dressing – the acidity helps cut through the hearty flavors of the casserole. If you’re feeding a bigger crowd, dinner rolls or crusty bread are great for soaking up any extra gravy or sauce from the meatloaf.

Storage Instructions

Keep Fresh: This hearty meatloaf casserole will stay good in the fridge for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. The mashed potato topping helps keep the meatloaf nice and moist, making it perfect for leftovers throughout the week.

Freeze: You can freeze this casserole for up to 3 months! Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. I like to portion it into smaller containers for easy single servings – it’s such a time-saver for busy weeknights.

Reheat: To warm up your casserole, pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes if refrigerated, or 45-50 minutes if frozen (make sure to thaw overnight first). You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, though the oven method helps maintain the nice texture of the mashed potatoes.

Preparation Time	15-25 minutes
Cooking Time	45-60 minutes
Total Time	60-85 minutes
Level of Difficulty	Medium

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):

• Calories: 3500-4000
• Protein: 180-200 g
• Fat: 250-280 g
• Carbohydrates: 200-230 g

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef or turkey
• 1/2 cup finely diced white onion
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 cup flavored bread crumbs
• 1 tablespoon worcestershire sauce
• 1 large egg, slightly beaten
• 1/3 cup cottage cheese
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup warmed milk or half-and-half
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 slices thick bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Pan

Start by preheating the oven to 375°F.

While the oven is heating, prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by spraying it lightly with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Meatloaf Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients: ground beef or turkey, chopped white onion, minced garlic, seasoned bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, lightly beaten egg, cottage cheese, and BBQ sauce.

Mix everything together until well combined, ensuring the ingredients are evenly integrated for the best flavor.

Step 3: Shape and Bake the Meatloaf

Transfer the combined meat mixture into the prepared baking pan.

Spread it out evenly to ensure even cooking.

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.

This will allow the meatloaf to cook through and set a firm texture for the next layers.

Step 4: Cook and Prepare Mashed Potatoes

While the meatloaf is baking, place the diced potatoes in a separate pan filled with water and cook over medium heat until tender.

Once cooked, drain the water from the pan.

Add unsalted butter and use a hand mixer to mash the potatoes until smooth.

Then, incorporate sour cream, warm milk or half-and-half, kosher salt, and ground black pepper into the mashed potatoes.

Mix until all the ingredients are well combined and the potatoes are creamy.

Step 5: Layer Potatoes and Cheese

After the meatloaf has baked for 30 minutes, remove it from the oven and carefully drain any excess grease.

Apply an even layer of the prepared mashed potatoes over the top of the meatloaf.

Follow this by spreading a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top of the mashed potatoes.

Step 6: Final Bake and Serve

Place the casserole back into the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes.

The goal is to thoroughly heat the mashed potatoes and ensure the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.

Once the baking time is complete, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your layered meatloaf casserole with added cheesy and bacon goodness!