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Ingredients for Loaded Potato Loaf with Bacon and Sausage
To create this delicious and filling dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4-5 medium potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 1/2 pound sausage (breakfast sausage or Italian sausage work great)
- 6-8 slices bacon (chopped)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
- 1/4 cup milk (adjust as needed for consistency)
How to Make Loaded Potato Loaf with Bacon and Sausage
Making this hearty and delicious dish is simple, and it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it. Follow these steps to create the ultimate Loaded Potato Loaf:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Potatoes:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add melted butter, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes until they reach your desired consistency. You can leave them slightly chunky for texture or mash them smooth for a creamier base.
3. Cook the Sausage and Bacon:
In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once the sausage is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, cook the chopped bacon until it becomes crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Drain the excess grease from the bacon and set it aside with the sausage.
4. Assemble the Potato Loaf:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cooked sausage, bacon, and shredded cheese. Stir everything together until well-mixed. If the mixture feels too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up to a loaf-consistent texture.
5. Bake the Loaded Potato Loaf:
Transfer the mixture to your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf is firm.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the Loaded Potato Loaf is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions or additional cheese if desired. Slice and serve!
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish can be served as a stand-alone meal or as a side to complement other dishes. Here are a few ideas for pairing:
- With a Salad: A crisp, fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the potato loaf.
- Steamed Vegetables: Roasted or steamed veggies, like broccoli, green beans, or carrots, would make a great side to add some greens to the meal.
- With a Fried Egg: Top a slice of the potato loaf with a fried egg for an extra boost of protein, making it even more filling for breakfast or brunch.
Tips for Success
To make sure your Loaded Potato Loaf turns out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the best option for this recipe because they mash easily and create a creamy base. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, which don’t mash as smoothly.
- Adjust the Consistency: If your mashed potato mixture is too thick, add a bit more milk to help it hold together in the loaf pan.
- Customize the Add-ins: You can experiment with different ingredients like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach to add more flavor and texture.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the potato loaf in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it later for a convenient make-ahead meal.
Why You’ll Make This Recipe Again and Again
Loaded Potato Loaf with Bacon and Sausage is the perfect combination of flavors and textures. It’s comforting, hearty, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
The great thing about this dish is its versatility. You can make it your own by experimenting with different ingredients, spices, and even toppings. This is one of those recipes that’s simple to prepare but delivers impressive results—making it the ultimate go-to comfort food when you want something filling and full of flavor.
Once you try it, Loaded Potato Loaf will definitely be a recipe you keep coming back to!
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