Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining a savory, flavorful meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes topped with melted cheddar cheese. This hearty dish is perfect for a family dinner, offering a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that everyone will love. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a delicious meal that’s sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tsp garlic (minced)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 1 ½ lb ground beef
- ¾ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup tomato sauce
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup BBQ sauce
- ½ cup frozen peas
- ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 ½ lb potatoes (peeled and cut into pieces)
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, tomato sauce, egg, BBQ sauce, cooked onion and garlic mixture, frozen peas, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix the ingredients until well combined, but be careful not to overmix as this can make the meatloaf tough.
- Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
Step 2: Make the Mashed Potatoes
- While the meatloaf is baking, place the peeled and cut potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook the potatoes until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and heavy whipping cream.
- Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Assemble and Serve
- Once the meatloaf is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Top the mashed potatoes with shredded cheddar cheese. You can either serve the cheese on top of the potatoes as is, or you can place the mashed potatoes in an oven-safe dish, sprinkle with cheese, and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve slices of meatloaf with a generous portion of mashed potatoes on the side.
Cook’s Notes
- Breadcrumbs: If you prefer a finer texture, you can use panko breadcrumbs, or for added flavor, try seasoned breadcrumbs.
- Potato Options: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for creamy mashed potatoes, but you can use any type you prefer.
- Cheese: For an extra cheesy flavor, mix some shredded cheddar into the mashed potatoes before adding the final layer on top.
Variations
Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf
Stuff the center of the meatloaf with a layer of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese before baking for a gooey surprise when you slice it.
Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf
Wrap the meatloaf in strips of bacon before baking for a smoky, savory twist.
Vegetable-Loaded Meatloaf
Add finely chopped carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to the meat mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Add 2-3 cloves of roasted garlic to the potatoes before mashing for a rich, garlicky flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make the meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it into a loaf. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I freeze the meatloaf?
Yes, cooked meatloaf freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
3. How do I prevent the meatloaf from drying out?
Be sure to not overmix the meatloaf ingredients, and bake it at the recommended temperature. Letting the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing helps retain moisture.
4. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative to beef. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as turkey can dry out faster.
5. What can I serve with meatloaf and mashed potatoes?
This dish pairs well with steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family. With its rich flavors and creamy textures, this dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the suggested variations, you’ll enjoy the hearty goodness of this traditional favorite. Serve it up with your favorite sides and savor every bite of this delicious, homemade meal.
