Here's a recipe for a delicious Potato and Meatloaf Casserole:
**Ingredients:**
For the meatloaf:
* 1 lb ground beef
* 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
* 1/2 cup milk
* 1 egg
* 1/4 cup chopped onion
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tsp salt
* 1/2 tsp black pepper
* 1/4 tsp paprika
* 1/4 tsp Worcestershire sauce
For the potato layer:
* 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
* 2 tbsp butter, softened
* 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste
For the casserole:
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
* 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
**Instructions:**
1. **Make the meatloaf:** Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Do not overmix.
2. **Shape the meatloaf:** Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper. Smooth the top and shape into a loaf. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until cooked through.
3. **Prepare the potato layer:** While the meatloaf is baking, slice the potatoes thinly and cook them in boiling salted water for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly tender. Drain the potatoes and set aside.
4. **Assemble the casserole:** Remove the meatloaf from the oven and set aside to cool slightly. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the potato slices and cook until golden brown, stirring occasionally. In a large bowl, combine the cooked potatoes, cheddar cheese, and chopped parsley and dill.
5. **Build the casserole:** Cut the cooled meatloaf into 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick slices. In a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish, arrange a layer of potatoes. Top with a layer of meatloaf slices. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of potatoes on top.
6. **Top with breadcrumbs and cheese:** Sprinkle the top layer of potatoes with breadcrumbs and cheddar cheese.
7. **Bake the casserole:** Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
**Tips and Variations:**
* To make a more indulgent casserole, add some diced ham or bacon to the potato layer.
* For a spicy twist, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture.
* To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a mixture of cooked black beans, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
* To make a leaner casserole, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
* Add some chopped mushrooms or broccoli to the potato layer for extra nutrients and flavor.
* For a creamy topping, mix some sour cream or Greek yogurt with chopped herbs and spoon it over the top of the casserole before baking.
* Experiment with different cheese blends, such as cheddar and mozzarella or Parmesan and provolone, for a unique flavor profile.
**Troubleshooting:**
* If the casserole becomes too dry, add some more breadcrumbs or cheese to the top layer.
* If the potatoes become too brown, cover the dish with foil and continue baking for 10-15 minutes.
By following these steps and tips, you'll end up with a delicious and comforting Potato and Meatloaf Casserole that's perfect for a family dinner or potluck. Bon appétit!