Meatloaf with mashed potatoes and cheese is a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe combines a savory meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and a layer of melted cheddar cheese, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- Olive Oil (for sautéing)
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 large Onion, finely chopped
- 1.5 lbs Ground Beef
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs
- 1 cup Tomato Sauce
- 1 Egg
- 1/4 cup BBQ Sauce
- 1/2 cup Frozen Peas
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped
- Salt and Pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 large Potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 tbsp Butter
- 1/2 cup Heavy Whipping Cream
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, grated
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, tomato sauce, egg, BBQ sauce, frozen peas, fresh parsley, and the sautéed garlic and onion. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to a greased baking dish and shape it into a loaf.
- Bake the Meatloaf: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Cook the Potatoes: While the meatloaf is baking, place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and heavy whipping cream. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Combine and Bake
- Layer the Mashed Potatoes: Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.
- Bake Until Golden: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Step 4: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice and serve hot, garnished with additional fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Ground Beef: For a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.
- Breadcrumbs: If you prefer, you can use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter texture.
- Tomato Sauce: Use your favorite tomato sauce or even a marinara sauce for added flavor.
- Peas: The frozen peas add a nice texture and pop of color, but you can also use other vegetables like diced carrots or corn.
- Cheese: While cheddar is delicious, feel free to use any melting cheese like mozzarella or a blend of cheeses.
- Mashed Potatoes: For an extra creamy texture, use Yukon Gold potatoes. You can also add roasted garlic or chives to the mashed potatoes for added flavor.
Meatloaf with mashed potatoes and cheese is a classic comfort food dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. The combination of savory meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, and gooey melted cheese creates a deliciously rich and hearty dinner that the whole family will enjoy. This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. Serve it with a side of green beans or a simple salad for a complete and balanced meal. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish, and don’t forget to share the recipe with friends and family
