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- 1 lb ground beef - 1 lb ground turkey - 2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared, homemade or instant) - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 2 large eggs These main ingredients make the heart of the loaded potato meatloaf. Ground beef and turkey give it a rich flavor and a tender texture. The mashed potatoes make it creamy and hearty. The onion and garlic add a nice depth of flavor. Finally, the cheese melts into the mix, making it extra delicious. - 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits - Fresh parsley for garnish Adding bacon bits gives a smoky flavor that many love. It adds crunch and a salty bite. Fresh parsley is a simple way to make the dish look pretty. It also adds a fresh taste that balances the richness of the meatloaf. - 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce - Salt and pepper, to taste - 1/2 cup sour cream - 1/4 cup milk The Worcestershire sauce brings umami, giving the meatloaf a deep flavor. Salt and pepper are must-haves for seasoning. Sour cream makes the mix creamy while adding a slight tang. Milk helps keep the meatloaf moist, ensuring a tender final dish. For the full recipe, check out the Ultimate Loaded Potato Meatloaf. - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps cook the meatloaf evenly. - Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This will keep the meatloaf from sticking. - In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef and 1 lb ground turkey. Mix them well until they blend together. - Add 1 small chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 2 cups of mashed potatoes to the meat mixture. These add flavor and moisture. - Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of cooked bacon bits if you want extra richness. Mix until everything is combined. - In another bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup milk, 2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, and some salt and pepper. This mixture will keep your meatloaf moist and tasty. - Pour the wet mixture over the meat mixture. Gently fold everything together with your hands or a spatula. Do not overmix; this can make the meatloaf tough. - Gradually add 1/2 cup breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture. Just add enough until it holds together. - Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the greased pan. Make sure it is even for best cooking results. For the full recipe, check out the Ultimate Loaded Potato Meatloaf. To ensure a moist meatloaf, use a mix of ground beef and turkey. The beef adds flavor, while the turkey keeps it tender. Don't forget the mashed potatoes; they add moisture too. Mixing in sour cream helps lock in that juicy texture. When it comes to baking temperatures, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect heat to cook the meatloaf evenly. If the oven is too hot, the outside cooks too fast. If it's too cool, the inside remains raw. For side dishes, I love pairing this meatloaf with steamed veggies. Broccoli or green beans add color and crunch. A crisp side salad also works well, bringing freshness to the meal. When serving, slice the meatloaf and place it on a warm plate. Top each slice with a dollop of sour cream. A sprinkle of fresh chives adds a pop of color and flavor. This simple presentation makes the dish look gourmet. One common mistake is overmixing the meatloaf. When you combine the ingredients, mix gently. Overmixing makes the meatloaf dense and tough. Another mistake is using the meat thermometer incorrectly. Insert it into the center of the meatloaf. You want it to read 160°F (70°C) for safe eating. If you check it in the wrong spot, you may think it is done when it is not. {{image_4}} You can easily change the meats in this recipe. For a lighter option, use ground chicken or lamb. Each meat brings a unique taste and texture to the dish. You can also swap the mashed potatoes for sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes add a hint of sweetness and extra nutrition. This simple change can give your meatloaf a new flavor profile. Want to boost the flavor? Try adding different cheeses. Gouda or pepper jack cheese can make it extra special. You can also mix in fresh herbs. Chives, thyme, or parsley will brighten the dish. For more nutrition, add veggies like bell peppers or spinach. These additions make your meatloaf vibrant and tasty. You don’t have to stick to the oven. A slow cooker is a great option for busy days. It cooks the meatloaf slowly, making it juicy and tender. Grilling or smoking your meatloaf is another fun method. This gives it a smoky flavor that pairs well with the potatoes. Each method offers a different taste experience, so feel free to experiment. For the full recipe, check out the earlier section. To keep your loaded potato meatloaf fresh, store leftovers in the fridge. Place the meatloaf in an airtight container. It will stay good for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to save it for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the meatloaf in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating in the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatloaf in a baking dish and cover it with foil. This keeps it moist. Heat for about 20 to 30 minutes, or until it’s warm all the way through. For a quicker method, use the microwave. Slice the meatloaf and place the slices on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat for 1 to 2 minutes. Check if it's warm enough, and heat more if needed. In the fridge, your loaded potato meatloaf lasts 3 to 4 days. In the freezer, it can last 3 months. Always check for signs of spoilage. If you see any off smells, discoloration, or mold, it’s best to throw it out. Keeping track of these details helps you enjoy your delicious meatloaf safely. For the full recipe, refer to the earlier sections of this article. The cooking time for this meatloaf is about one hour. This is for a standard loaf size. If you make a larger loaf, it may take longer. Always check the center with a meat thermometer. You want it to reach 160°F (70°C). This ensures it is safe and fully cooked. Yes, you can make this meatloaf ahead. Prepare the mixture and shape it into a loaf. Then, cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. It can stay there for up to 24 hours. When you are ready to cook, bake it straight from the fridge. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if baking from cold. If you need a substitute for breadcrumbs, there are many options. You can use crushed crackers or oats. Another good choice is ground nuts or cooked rice. Each of these adds a different flavor and texture. Adjust the amount until the mixture holds together well. You learned how to make the Ultimate Loaded Potato Meatloaf. The main ingredients are ground beef, ground turkey, and mashed potatoes. Optional items like bacon bits and parsley enhance flavor and look. Remember to mix the ingredients gently to avoid dry meatloaf and serve with tasty sides. Consider trying variations such as different meats or herbs to add your twist. Store leftovers properly, and use safe reheating methods. With these tips, you can enjoy a great meal that satisfies. Your cooking can be fun and easy!

Ultimate Loaded Potato Meatloaf

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Ultimate Loaded Potato Meatloaf recipe! Bursting with flavor, this dish combines ground beef and turkey with creamy mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this meatloaf is easy to make and sure to impress. Click through for step-by-step instructions and serving tips that will elevate your cooking game! Don't miss out on this delicious meal.
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef

1 lb ground turkey

2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared, homemade or instant)

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup cooked bacon bits (optional)

1/2 cup sour cream

1/4 cup milk

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

2 large eggs

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the meatloaf.

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground turkey, blending them together until evenly mixed.

      Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and cooked bacon bits (if using) to the meat mixture, stirring until fully combined.

        In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well blended.

          Pour the liquid mixture over the meat mixture and gently fold everything together using your hands or a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could make the meatloaf dense.

            Gradually incorporate the breadcrumbs into the mixture, adding just enough until it holds together without being too dry.

              Shape the combined mixture into a loaf and transfer it into a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan, ensuring an even shape for cooking.

                Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (70°C).

                  Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to firm up before slicing.

                    Just before serving, garnish the sliced meatloaf with freshly chopped parsley for an added pop of color.

                      Prep Time: 20 min | Total Time: 1 hr 20 min | Servings: 6

                        - Presentation Tips: When ready to serve, slice the meatloaf and place it on a warm plate. Top each slice with a generous dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh chives for a burst of flavor and visual appeal. Pair it with steamed vegetables or a crisp side salad for a hearty, satisfying meal.