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Hearty Meatloaf Potato Bake brings together two dinnertime classics in one mouth-watering dish. This cozy creation stacks flavorful ground beef with velvety mashed spuds, gooey cheese, and crunchy bacon bits for a dinner that'll make everyone beg for more.
I first whipped up this bake during freezing nights in winter, and it quickly turned into my family's top dinner request. My little ones actually jump up and down when they catch a whiff of it cooking.
Key Ingredients
- Ground beef: pick an 80/20 mix for the juiciest, tastiest results
- Russet potatoes: make the smoothest, fluffiest mashed layer
- Sharp cheddar: brings a punch of tangy goodness
- Thick-cut bacon: makes that perfect crunchy top layer
- Fresh garlic: boosts flavor in both meat and potato parts
- Worcestershire sauce: gives that deep, savory kick
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Step 1:
- Combine beef with eggs, breadcrumbs and seasonings using your fingers lightly. Don't mix too much or your meatloaf will end up tough.
- Step 2:
- Cook potatoes till soft, then mash them with butter and milk until smooth. Don't skimp on salt and pepper - your potato layer should taste great by itself.
- Step 3:
- Spread meat mix into your dish in one flat layer. Add potato layer on top, making sure to cover all the way to the edges to lock in juices.
- Step 4:
- Sprinkle with cheese and partly-cooked bacon chunks. The bacon will get nice and crispy during baking.
- Step 5:
- Wrap with foil and bake at 375°F for 35 minutes, then take the foil off for another 15 minutes until everything looks golden and bubbling.
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My granny always put a thin spread of browned onions between the beef and potato layers. It pumps up the taste and keeps everything nice and moist.
Cooking Heat Guide
Always check with a thermometer to make sure the meat hits 160°F so it's safe to eat.
Prep It Early
You can put everything together up to a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. Just let it warm up a bit before it goes in the oven.
What to Serve With It
Try a fresh green salad or some roasted veggies on the side to cut through the richness.
Using Up Leftovers
Heat single portions in a frying pan to get the bottom crispy - many folks think it's even tastier this way!
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This bake has turned into my favorite dish to bring to get-togethers and family meals. It's the perfect mix of familiar comfort foods turned into something special that gets everyone running to the table.
Common Questions
- → Can I prep this earlier?
- Absolutely, you can put everything together up to 24 hours before and keep it in the fridge until you're ready to cook.
- → What's the point of mixing beef and pork?
- They work together to give you better taste and juiciness than just using beef on its own.
- → Will already-made mashed potatoes work?
- For sure, leftover mashed spuds are perfect for this dish.
- → How can I tell it's fully cooked?
- Look for bubbly cheese on top and make sure the meat hits 165°F, usually after about 35-40 minutes.
- → Is it okay to freeze this dish?
- Definitely, just cover it well and freeze it uncooked for up to 3 months. Make sure to thaw it before you bake it.