Bacon and Sausage-Stuffed Potato Loaf

Posted on

Bacon and sausage stuffed potato loaf garnished with herbs and spices

Dinner Ideas

Recipe 02316a6156

Easy Bacon and Sausage-Stuffed Potato Loaf: Comfort in Every Bite

There’s something uniquely comforting about the scent of potatoes bubbling away in a pot, mingling with sizzling bacon and sausage in a pan. Honestly, it’s like a warm hug from the kitchen. I vividly remember the first time I stumbled upon a recipe for a Bacon and Sausage-Stuffed Potato Loaf. It was one of those evenings when the weather had turned chillier, and I was blankly staring into the fridge, hoping for a culinary miracle. At that moment, I knew I needed something hearty and robust to fend off the autumnal chill.

As I browsed various food blogs in desperate search of inspiration, I found a recipe that promised comfort and a bit of nostalgia. The great thing about this dish is that it’s kind of like an adult version of a potato skin, but you get the added bonus of luxurious potatoes, savory meats, and gooey cheese all packed into a loaf. What’s not to love? And believe me, when I pulled it out of the oven that first time, I genuinely felt like a kitchen superstar. It didn’t hurt that my husband validated my culinary efforts by devouring the entire loaf in one sitting—well, almost.

For me, this recipe isn’t just about the food; it’s about those moments of connection. Smelling the crispy bacon intermingling with the freshness of green onions as they crisped up is enough to make anyone feel nostalgic. Potatoes have been my go-to for cozy dinners since childhood, often cooked up with love by family gatherings or quiet nights in. Moreover, this recipe is a great way to connect with those we care about. It’s aimed at adding that blissful warmth back into our chilly evenings and possibly inducing a bit of happiness with every slice. Honestly, what’s more comforting than a potato loaf that tastes like a full-blown breakfast?

Now that I have you salivating (I hope), let’s explore why you’ll absolutely love making this Bacon and Sausage-Stuffed Potato Loaf.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy Weeknight Dinner: This dish comes together surprisingly quickly, making it one of those easy weeknight dinners that can easily become a family favorite.

  • High Protein Meals: Between the bacon, sausage, and cheese, you’re looking at a high protein meal that will keep everyone satisfied.

  • Budget-Friendly Recipe: Using simple ingredients means it’s easy on the wallet, perfect for those of us watching our grocery bills.

  • Perfect for Leftovers: I can’t emphasize enough how this makes for incredible leftover lunches. Just slice and heat!

  • Picky-Eater Approved: Let’s be honest, kids will often reach for the starches. Getting kids to eat their meat and vegetables can sometimes be a chore, but this recipe wraps everything together neatly in one loaf that even the pickiest eaters will adore.

  • Comfort Food in a Loaf: This dish really feels like a hug in a bowl—or rather, a loaf! Perfect for cozy nights in.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

When I say this recipe is special, I’m not just being dramatic (okay, maybe a little). What truly sets this Bacon and Sausage-Stuffed Potato Loaf apart is the unique blend of flavors and textures. First, you boil the potatoes until they’re tender, creating that creamy base. Then, with every forkful, you’re greeted with bites of crispy bacon, savory sausage, and melty cheese that envelop the whole experience. The addition of sour cream adds a delightful creaminess, while the green onions introduce a freshness that cuts through the richness.

Plus, it’s hearty enough to feel satisfying without being overly heavy. You can switch up the cheeses or meats based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences—so there’s room for improvisation! Additionally, this meal evokes nostalgia with every slice; even if your kitchen chaos doesn’t craft a perfect loaf, it certainly conjures beautiful memories!

Ingredients

  • 4 large potatoes: The stars of the show! I prefer Russet potatoes for their fluffy insides that can really soak up all the marvelous flavors, but any large potatoes will do.

  • 4 ounces bacon, chopped: A crispy texture and smoky flavor packed into every bite. You can use turkey bacon if you prefer; it adds less fat but still provides a nice crunch.

  • 4 ounces sausage, crumbled: Your pick here! Whether you go for spicy breakfast sausage or a savory pork alternative, it will add dimension to the dish.

  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice): Cheddar is my go-to for this one. It melts beautifully and has that classic comforting taste, but feel free to get adventurous with your favorites!

  • 1/2 cup sour cream: This is your secret weapon for creaminess, balancing out all those rich flavors.

  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped: Freshness is key! These lend a beautiful crunch and a pop of color.

  • Salt and pepper to taste: Because no dish is complete without a sprinkle of seasoning.

  • 1 tablespoon butter: Just enough for greasing the loaf pan, but it also foreshadows the deliciousness to come.

Ingredient Tips and Substitutions

  • To elevate flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses. A sharp cheddar or even a bit of blue cheese could lend a daring twist. If you’re feeling even more adventurous, try incorporating jalapeños for some heat!

  • For a twist, consider adding roasted garlic or other spices like paprika for a lovely smokiness.

  • If you’re looking for a lower-carb version, maybe try using cauliflower instead of potatoes. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Let me tell you, one time, I mistakenly grabbed sweet potatoes instead of the regular ones. Oops! They tasted fabulous but gave the dish an unexpected sweetness. So keep an eye out!

How to Make It Step-by-Step

Alright, it’s time to get a little messy in the kitchen. Let’s take this from start to finish!

  1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). As soon as I do this, I feel an instant rush of excitement that an amazing dish is coming together.

  2. Boil the Potatoes: Place the large potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Allow them to cook until they’re fork-tender, usually about 15-20 minutes. Be sure to keep an eye on them, so you don’t accidentally set them loose in the pot—and hey, ensure you’re ready for that heavenly fragrance wafting through your kitchen!

  3. Sizzle the Meats: While the potatoes are boiling away, heat up a skillet over medium heat. Toss your chopped bacon and crumbled sausage into the pan. The sizzling as they cook is music to my ears. It’s all about that crispy goodness! Cook until everything is browned and delicious, then drain the excess fat.

  4. Mash the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, drain them and mash them in a large bowl. The texture should be creamy but with a few lumps for character—after all, this isn’t a potato purée! Stir in the sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, cooked bacon, and sausage. Season with salt and pepper to taste. I’ll be real, the mix of flavors here is where it starts to get genuinely exciting.

  5. Prepare the Pan: Grease a loaf pan with a tablespoon of butter. Not gonna lie, I usually get some on my fingers, but who doesn’t love a little butter on their hands?

  6. Pack It In: Spoon that glorious potato mixture into the prepared pan, pressing down firmly to pack it tightly. I recommend using the back of a spatula to help smooth out the top.

  7. Bake It Off: Pop your loaf into the preheated oven and let it bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll want it to be heated through and slightly golden on top. You might even need to avoid peeking too often; the aroma will lull you into temptation!

  8. Slice and Serve: Once the time’s up, allow your potato loaf to cool for a few minutes. Slicing into it can feel oddly satisfying, and trust me, it’s best when it’s still warm. Grab a fork and dig in!

Tips for Best Results

  • Remember to not overcook your potatoes! Tender is delightful, but mushy not so much.

  • Press the mixture firmly into the pan; it makes for easier slicing later on.

  • If you find yourself with leftover mixture, a baked potato could become your new favorite dinner. Just bake it for a hot minute, scoop some of the filling into the potato skin, and top it off with a sprinkle of cheese. Yum!

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

If you’re venturing down this road, here are a few ideas for variations:

  • Vegetarian Option: Swap out the bacon and sausage with mushrooms, black beans, or lentils. #MeatlessMonday, am I right?

  • Spicy Kick: Toss in some diced jalapeños for a delightful fiery twist.

  • Herbed Twist: Fresh thyme or rosemary could elevate the dish to a whole new level.

  • Cheeseburger Style: Want to get super creative? Incorporate some chopped pickles, tomatoes, or mustard into the mix for a cheeseburger-inspired potato loaf!

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Boil the potatoes until fork-tender, then drain and let cool slightly.
  3. While potatoes are cooling, cook the bacon and sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
  4. In a large bowl, mash the potatoes and mix in the sour cream, cheese, green onions, cooked bacon, sausage, and season with salt and pepper.
  5. Grease a loaf pan with butter.
  6. Spoon the potato mixture into the pan, pressing down to pack it tightly.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until heated through and the top is slightly golden.
  8. Allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad to add a fresh crunch on the side. Lightly dressed greens work well to balance its richness. As for drinks, you can’t go wrong with a nice chilled lemonade or an ice-cold iced tea that cuts through the savory indulgence. And honestly, who doesn’t enjoy a little something sweet to wrap up dinner? A slice of chocolate cake or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream could be magical after all that heartiness. And for those cozy movie nights? This potato loaf alongside a rom-com is perfection!

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Let’s be real—there’s a solid chance you might have leftovers. If that’s the case, I recommend letting it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It should be good for 3-4 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to devour it again, pop it in the microwave for a quick reheat, or slide it back into the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to preserve that glorious texture.

Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips

Thinking of meal planning? You can prepare your potato loaf ahead of time! Just assemble the loaf, cover it with foil, and pop it in the freezer. When you’re ready, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. This way, you can enjoy easy high protein high calorie meals without the evening chaos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Boiling Too Long: Don’t walk away from the potatoes! If they’re overcooked, you’ll end up with a gummy mess.

  • Packing Too Loosely: It’s essential to pack that mixture into the pan firmly. This will help with the loaf holding its shape.

  • Not Letting It Cool: Avoid cutting too soon! If you slice into it directly after baking, it may crumble and lose its perfect loaf shape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use other meats?
Absolutely! Substitute the bacon and sausage with any protein of choice, or even skip the meat entirely for a veggie-lover’s delight.

2. Can leftovers be frozen?
Yes, they freeze wonderfully when properly stored.

3. How long does it take to bake from frozen?
From frozen, you’ll need to add roughly 15-20 minutes to the baking time.

4. What’s the best way to serve it?
Slice it while warm and pair it with any fresh salad and your favorite drink—it’s flawless!

Cooking Tools You’ll Need

  • A pot for boiling the potatoes
  • A skillet for cooking the bacon and sausage
  • A large mixing bowl for combining everything
  • A loaf pan to mold it all together
  • An oven for baking everything to perfection

Final Thoughts

This Bacon and Sausage-Stuffed Potato Loaf is more than just a recipe; it’s a journey back to cozy nights filled with laughter and love. In our fast-paced world, it’s nice to take a moment to enjoy the simpler things—like gathering around the table with those we cherish. I’d love to hear how your version turns out! Did you add a twist? What surprises did you find along the way?

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend! Happy cooking!

Recipe 6ba76e3a0b

Bacon and Sausage-Stuffed Potato Loaf

A hearty and comforting potato loaf stuffed with crispy bacon, savory sausage, and gooey cheese, perfect for chilly evenings and family dinners.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 4 large large potatoes Russet potatoes preferred for fluffiness.
  • 4 ounces bacon, chopped Can substitute with turkey bacon.
  • 4 ounces sausage, crumbled Choose spicy breakfast sausage or savory pork.
  • 1 cup shredded cheese Cheddar recommended for melting and flavor.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream Adds creaminess.
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped For freshness.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Essential for seasoning.
  • 1 tablespoon butter For greasing the loaf pan.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Place the large potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  • While the potatoes are boiling, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chopped bacon and crumbled sausage until browned. Drain excess fat.
  • Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, drain and mash them in a large bowl. Stir in sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, cooked bacon, and sausage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Grease a loaf pan with butter.
  • Spoon the potato mixture into the prepared pan, pressing down firmly to pack it tightly.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until heated through and the top is slightly golden.
  • Allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For a vegetarian option, substitute bacon and sausage with mushrooms or lentils. To make it spicy, add jalapeños.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 18gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2g
Keyword Bacon, Comfort Food, Easy Recipes, potato loaf, Sausage
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Tags:

bacon recipes / Comfort Food / potato loaf / sausage recipes / stuffed potato recipes

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating