If cozy dinners had a mascot, the Classic Comfort Loaded Potato Meatloaf would be it. This indulgent, savory dish blends two all-time favorites: meatloaf and loaded mashed potatoes. Imagine a juicy, flavorful meatloaf topped with a layer of creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, melty cheddar, and a sprinkle of fresh chives. Every bite offers warmth, crunch, and the kind of nostalgic satisfaction you crave after a long day.

Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or simply feeding your hungry crew, this hearty meal brings joy to the table. It’s also surprisingly easy to prepare with simple ingredients, yet it tastes like something you’d order at your favorite homestyle diner. If you’re ready for a soul-satisfying twist on a classic, this is the one to bookmark.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

For that fluffy, creamy mashed topping, Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal. They’re naturally buttery and hold up well when mixed with sour cream and cheese. If you only have russets on hand, they work too—just be sure to peel and boil them until fork-tender for the smoothest mash.

Ingredients for the Classic Comfort Loaded Potato Meatloaf

Ground Beef – The heart of the meatloaf. Use 80/20 for a juicy, flavorful base.

Breadcrumbs – Essential for structure. Helps the loaf stay together without drying out.

Eggs – These bind everything perfectly, giving the loaf its signature shape.

Onion & Garlic – Aromatic and rich. Dice the onion finely for even cooking.

Worcestershire Sauce – Adds depth and a hint of tangy umami.

Yukon Gold Potatoes – For that creamy, buttery mashed layer on top.

Butter & Sour Cream – These make your mash luxuriously rich and smooth.

Cheddar Cheese – Melted over the top for a gooey, golden finish.

Cooked Bacon – Adds crispiness and a smoky edge that pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes.

Chives – A fresh pop of color and mild oniony bite to brighten the dish.

How To Make the Classic Comfort Loaded Potato Meatloaf

Step 1: Prep the Mashed Potatoes

Peel and cube Yukon Gold potatoes, then boil in salted water until fork-tender. Drain and mash with butter and sour cream until creamy. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, finely diced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork the meat.

Step 3: Shape and Bake

Transfer the meat mixture to a greased baking dish or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf and bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the center reaches 160°F.

Step 4: Add the Topping

Once the meatloaf is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and carefully spread the mashed potatoes over the top. Sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.

Step 5: Broil for the Finish

Pop the loaf under the broiler for 2–3 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Sprinkle with chopped chives just before serving for that final fresh bite.

Serving and Storing Your Loaded Potato Meatloaf

This dish is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans for a fresh contrast. Serve it hot and slice with a serrated knife for clean portions.

To store leftovers, let the meatloaf cool completely. Wrap tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, use the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave individual slices for a quicker option.

You can also freeze slices by wrapping them individually—perfect for meal prep or a comforting lunch on a busy day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the meatloaf and mashed potatoes the day before. Assemble but don’t add cheese or bacon until just before baking the second time.

What’s the best way to reheat this meatloaf?

Oven reheating is best to preserve the texture. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes until hot.

Can I use ground turkey instead?

Definitely. Just be sure to add a bit more moisture—like a splash of milk or extra egg—to prevent dryness.

Is this gluten-free?

Only if you use gluten-free breadcrumbs. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I swap the cheese?

Absolutely. Monterey Jack, Colby, or even smoked gouda would be delicious alternatives.

Do I need to use chives?

Nope! They add color and flavor, but you can skip them or substitute with green onions or parsley.

Want More Comfort Food Ideas?

If this Classic Comfort Loaded Potato Meatloaf hit the spot, you might also love these satisfying recipes:

Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta for a buttery, rich pasta fix.
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole—an ultimate side that can stand on its own.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli for something quick yet indulgent.
Deep Hamburger Sausage Pepperoni Pie if you crave all-in-one skillet meals.
Funeral Potatoes for the cheesiest, creamiest potato side.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Life with Nina on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you layer with extra bacon? Swap in turkey? Add a spicy twist?

I love hearing how you make these dishes your own. Got questions? Drop them below—we’re in this kitchen adventure together.

Classic Comfort Loaded Potato Meatloaf

Author: Nina Johnson
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

Description

A cozy, all-in-one comfort food classic. This loaded potato meatloaf layers savory, juicy beef with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar, crispy bacon, and fresh chives—an indulgent twist on two favorites that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday tables.

Instructions

1. Peel and cube Yukon Gold potatoes, then boil in salted water until fork-tender. Drain and mash with butter and sour cream until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

2. Preheat oven to 375°F.

3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.

4. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf in a greased baking dish.

5. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the center reaches 160°F.

6. Remove meatloaf from the oven. Spread mashed potatoes over the top.

7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top of the potatoes.

8. Broil for 2–3 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

9. Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.

10. Garnish with chopped chives and serve warm.