Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese
Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese is a classic comfort food that wraps you in a warm embrace with every bite. This dish combines the heartiness of a savory meatloaf with the creamy richness of mashed potatoes, topped with melted cheddar cheese that creates a delightful fusion of flavors. The aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes is enough to make anyone’s mouth water! This recipe is perfect for family dinners, easy meal prep, or simply a cozy night in. Let’s dive into this satisfying and straightforward step-by-step meatloaf masterpiece!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese is an absolute crowd-pleaser with numerous benefits. It features easy prep that allows even novice cooks to shine! With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a meal that the whole family will enjoy. This dish embraces traditional comfort food while ensuring minimal clean-up, perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends alike. Plus, the combination of textures—from the moist meatloaf to the creamy mashed potatoes and gooey cheese—creates a symphony of flavors that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients for Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20): Rich and juicy, providing the perfect base for our meatloaf.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meat mixture and contributes to the meat’s texture.
- 2 eggs: Adds moisture and richness, ensuring a tender loaf.
- 1 onion, diced: Imparts a lovely sweetness when cooked.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant kick that enhances flavor.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Offers depth and a savory umami essence.
- ½ cup ketchup or BBQ sauce: Sweet and tangy, it balances the flavors beautifully.
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed: The base for our creamy, comforting mashed potatoes.
- 4 tbsp butter: Adds richness and enhances the taste of the potatoes.
- ½ cup cream or milk: For a silky-smooth consistency.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts to a bubbling, gooey topping that completes the dish.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Essential seasoning that elevates the overall flavor.
Step-by-Step Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a perfectly cooked meatloaf.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Knead gently with your hands until just combined.
Press the mixture into a greased baking dish, forming a uniform loaf. This helps the meatloaf hold its shape during cooking.
Spread ketchup over the top. This sweet glaze adds a deliciously sticky finish.
Bake for 30 minutes. The meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add cubed potatoes. Cook until tender, approximately 15-20 minutes.
Drain potatoes, return to the pot, and add butter, cream or milk, salt, and pepper. Mash until creamy and smooth for the perfect potato side.
Spread mashed potatoes over the top of the meatloaf and sprinkle with cheddar cheese. This toppings layer is what makes our dish truly special.
Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell absolutely divine!
Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period ensures juicy slices without falling apart.
Tips & Tricks
To take your Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese to the next level, consider these chef’s secrets:
Use a mix of ground meats: Combining beef with ground turkey or chicken can lend a unique flavor and texture.
Experiment with seasonings: Add herbs like thyme or oregano to the meat mixture for an extra pop of flavor.
Make ahead: You can assemble the meatloaf in advance and store it in the fridge for a day before baking.
Add veggies: Finely chopped bell peppers or carrots can be added for a nutritious twist.
Try alternate cheeses: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or even a pungent blue cheese for different flavor profiles.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Present your Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese with flair by garnishing it with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Pair it with a side of sautéed green beans or a simple garden salad for a refreshing contrast. A warm crusty bread can round out the meal perfectly. For those who enjoy a bit of a kick, consider serving it with a side of spicy pickles to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
Nutritional Information
While enjoying Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese, you can indulge with the knowledge that this dish can support a balanced meal. Each serving offers a satisfying amount of protein from the beef, essential carbohydrates from the potatoes, and calcium from the cheese. Though it may be rich, it can fit comfortably into an occasionally indulgent diet.
Storing Tips & Variations for Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese
Leftovers? No problem! You can store Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven until heated through.
For a healthier twist, consider using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes or lean ground turkey for the meatloaf. Vegetarian alternatives can also be explored using lentils or black beans as the protein base.
Conclusion for Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese
Are you ready to make this delicious Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese? Cook up this comforting classic today and create a memorable meal that your family will request time and time again!
FAQs
1. Can I make this meatloaf recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking.
2. What type of ground beef should I use?
For the best flavor and texture, use ground beef with a fat content of around 80/20. This balance ensures a juicy meatloaf without excess grease.
3. Can I use different kinds of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Mozzarella, pepper jack, or colby jack cheese would all work excellently.
4. Is there a vegetarian alternative for this dish?
Certainly! You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or a mixture of lentils, beans, and finely chopped vegetables.
5. How can I ensure the meatloaf stays moist?
Using breadcrumbs and eggs as binders helps maintain moisture. It’s also important not to overmix the meat to prevent a dense texture.
Print
Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A classic comfort food combining savory meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, topped with melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup ketchup or BBQ sauce
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tbsp butter
- ½ cup cream or milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Knead gently with your hands until just combined.
- Press the mixture into a greased baking dish, forming a uniform loaf.
- Spread ketchup over the top.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add cubed potatoes. Cook until tender, approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Drain potatoes, return to the pot, and add butter, cream or milk, salt, and pepper. Mash until creamy and smooth.
- Spread mashed potatoes over the top of the meatloaf and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
- Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Consider using a mix of ground meats or adding chopped vegetables for added flavor. Serve with fresh herbs and a side salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
