Stuffed Potato Loaf Recipe

Comfort food doesn’t get much better than a stuffed potato loaf. Creamy mashed potatoes baked into a sliceable loaf, layered with savory filling and melted cheese, create a dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. This stuffed potato loaf recipe delivers crispy edges, a fluffy potato interior, and a rich, flavorful center that turns humble ingredients into a show-stopping meal.

Perfect as a main dish or impressive side, this potato loaf is beloved for its comforting texture and customizable filling. You can make it meaty, vegetarian, extra cheesy, or lightly herbed depending on your mood and what you have on hand. Once sliced, each piece holds its shape beautifully, making it ideal for serving guests or meal prepping for the week.

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Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Potato Loaf

This recipe is more than just baked potatoes in a different form. It’s designed to be rich, structured, and deeply flavorful, while still feeling familiar and cozy.

• Creamy, fluffy potato texture
• Crispy golden crust
• Savory, melty filling
• Easy to slice and serve
• Budget-friendly ingredients
• Perfect for make-ahead meals

Whether you’re serving it for dinner, brunch, or as a holiday side, this stuffed potato loaf fits the moment.

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What Is a Stuffed Potato Loaf?

A stuffed potato loaf is essentially mashed potatoes transformed into a baked loaf, reinforced with eggs and breadcrumbs for structure, then layered or filled with savory ingredients like cheese, meat, or vegetables. Once baked, it slices cleanly like meatloaf but eats like the creamiest loaded potato.

This dish has roots in European-style potato bakes and casseroles, where potatoes are used as both the base and the star ingredient. The loaf format modernizes the idea, making it easier to serve and visually impressive.

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Ingredients

Potato Base

• 2½ lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or russet), peeled and cubed
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• ½ cup milk or cream, warmed
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder

Savory Filling

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cooked ground beef or sausage (optional)
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

For Topping

• 2 tbsp melted butter
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs
• Chopped parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain well.
3. Mash potatoes with butter and warm milk until smooth.
4. Stir in eggs, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
5. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
6. Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and cook briefly.
7. Add cooked meat if using, along with paprika and Italian seasoning. Remove from heat.
8. Press half of the potato mixture into the loaf pan.
9. Add the savory filling evenly, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
10. Top with remaining potato mixture, smoothing the surface.
11. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
12. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until golden and firm.
13. Rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
14. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Potato Loaf

• Dry the potatoes well: Excess moisture can make the loaf collapse.
• Use eggs: They help bind the loaf so it slices cleanly.
• Rest before slicing: This sets the structure.
• Line the pan: Makes removal effortless.

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Delicious Variations

Cheesy Vegetarian Potato Loaf

Skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.

Bacon & Cheddar Potato Loaf

Add crispy bacon bits and sharp cheddar for a loaded baked potato vibe.

Mediterranean Style

Use feta cheese, olives, and herbs like oregano and thyme.

Spicy Potato Loaf

Add chili flakes, jalapeños, or spicy sausage.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve stuffed potato loaf with:

• Crisp green salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Gravy or sour cream
• Steamed greens

It works beautifully as a main dish or hearty side.

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Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store slices in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for best texture.

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Texture & Flavor Breakdown

• Exterior: Golden and lightly crisp
• Interior: Fluffy and creamy
• Filling: Savory, cheesy, and rich
• Overall: Comforting yet structured

Each bite delivers layered flavor and satisfying texture.

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Why This Recipe Works

The balance of starch, fat, and protein gives this potato loaf its structure and richness. Eggs and breadcrumbs stabilize the mash, while the filling adds contrast. Baking uncovered creates a crisp top, while resting ensures clean slices.