Bacon and Sausage-Stuffed Potato Loaf
Have you ever wanted to turn a simple potato dish into the star of your dinner table? The Bacon and Sausage-Stuffed Potato Loaf is a creative twist on classic comfort food that’s guaranteed to impress. With layers of creamy mashed potatoes, savory sausage, and crispy bacon, this hearty loaf delivers rich flavor and satisfying texture in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is the perfect blend of indulgence and homestyle goodness.
Ingredients
For the Potato Base
- 4 large russet potatoes (about 2 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Filling
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Optional Toppings
- Extra shredded cheese
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Substitutions:
- Potatoes → Swap with sweet potatoes for a nutrient-rich twist.
- Sausage → Use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese → Opt for dairy-free cheese if needed.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and dice the russet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in salted water for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot.
Step 2: Mash the Potatoes
Mash the potatoes with butter, sour cream, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon and Sausage
In a skillet, cook the bacon until crispy (about 5–7 minutes). Remove with a slotted spoon. In the same pan, add the sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks. Sauté for 8–10 minutes until browned. Add onion and garlic, cooking 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine the Filling
Mix the sausage, bacon, and breadcrumbs in a bowl. Stir to combine all the flavors.
Step 5: Assemble the Loaf
Grease a loaf pan. Spread half the mashed potatoes on the bottom, then layer with the sausage mixture. Top with the remaining mashed potatoes, smoothing with a spatula. Sprinkle extra cheese on top if desired.
Step 6: Bake the Loaf
Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with parsley and green onions. Slice and serve hot.
About the Recipe
Nutrition at a Glance (per serving, 8 portions)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 22 g
- Fat: 30 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 2 g
This Bacon and Sausage-Stuffed Potato Loaf offers a balanced mix of protein and carbs, making it both filling and satisfying.
Healthier Alternatives
- Use lean meats: Swap pork sausage for turkey or chicken sausage.
- Add veggies: Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
- Lighten the dairy: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt and use reduced-fat cheese.
Serving Suggestions
- With salad: A fresh green salad balances the richness of the loaf.
- With gravy: A drizzle of homemade gravy adds depth of flavor.
- With roasted veggies: Colorful sides like carrots or broccoli complete the meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking potatoes → leads to watery mash.
- Skipping resting time → makes slices fall apart.
- Forgetting to press filling → loaf won’t hold together properly.
Storage Tips
- Room temperature: Up to 2 hours.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Reheat in oven for best results.
Conclusion
The Bacon and Sausage-Stuffed Potato Loaf is the kind of recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a showstopping dish. Creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes wrapped around a savory filling of bacon and sausage it’s comfort food at its best. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or potlucks, this loaf is sure to become a family favorite.
Give it a try in your own kitchen, and don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family. Once you’ve tasted it, you’ll see why this potato loaf deserves a place on your dinner table.