There’s something truly special about a homemade meal that wraps you in a warm hug. This Classic Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes is exactly that kind of dish. It’s a cherished comfort food that brings families together, creating memories around the dinner table. This recipe makes weeknight cooking easy and rewarding, offering a delicious, satisfying combination that nourishes both body and soul. Prepare for a meal everyone will adore.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes
This beloved duo isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience in simple joy.
- Easy Preparation: Follow straightforward steps for a delicious, comforting dinner.
- Family Favorite: A hearty, satisfying meal that pleases everyone, from little ones to grandparents.
- Flavorful Meatloaf: Enjoy a savory, tender meatloaf packed with delightful flavors.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Achieve fluffy, rich mashed potatoes that perfectly complement the meatloaf.
- Versatile Dish: Ideal for casual weeknights or special Sunday dinners.
- Wonderful Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day, perfect for sandwiches or a quick reheat.
Ingredients
Creating this comforting meatloaf with mashed potatoes starts with quality ingredients, ready to transform into a heartwarming meal.
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/4 cup finely chopped carrots
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1 cup quick cooking oats
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce for outer coat (glaze)
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 baking potatoes
- 2 tablespoons butter or margarine
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (reserved from meatloaf prep)
- 1/2 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup finely shredded asiago or other sharp cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Finely chopped parsley for garnish
Notes & Substitutions
Feel free to personalize this recipe. For the meatloaf, you can use ground beef, a mix of beef, pork, and veal, or even ground chicken instead of turkey. If you don’t have oats, crushed saltine crackers or dry breadcrumbs work well as binders. Sneak in more finely diced vegetables like bell peppers or celery for extra nutrients and flavor.
When making the mashed potatoes, swap out parmesan and asiago for cheddar or a creamy blend. Any milk works, and you can add a splash of cream or sour cream for extra richness. Experiment with dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for different seasoning variations.
Equipment
Gathering your tools before you begin makes cooking a breeze.
- Loaf pan or baking sheet
- Large mixing bowls
- Potato masher or ricer
- Sauté pan
- Large pot for boiling potatoes
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
How To Make Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes
Prepare for a joyful cooking experience as we create this classic Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes. Following these steps will bring a delightful aroma to your kitchen and a satisfying meal to your table.
Part 1: Make the Meatloaf
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking from the start.
- Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped carrots and sauté them gently until they are soft, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the carrots and set them aside in a large mixing bowl.
- In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic. Sauté it until it’s slightly soft and golden, about 1-2 minutes. This step enhances the garlic’s sweetness.
- Carefully remove 1 tablespoon of the sautéed garlic and set it aside in a small bowl; this will be for your mashed potatoes later. Add the remaining garlic from the pan into the large bowl with the sautéed carrots.
- To the large bowl containing the carrots and garlic, add 1 lb lean ground turkey, 1 cup quick cooking oats, 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, 1/2 cup ketchup, 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley, and salt & pepper to taste.
- Mix all ingredients gently with your hands until they are well blended. Be careful not to overmix, which can make the meatloaf tough.
- Once blended, you have two options: either form the mixture into a meatloaf log shape, roughly 4 inches wide, 2 inches high, and 8-9 inches long, and place it on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray; or press the mixture into a loaf pan. Using a loaf mold or a greased loaf pan helps the meatloaf keep its shape.
- Spread a thin, even layer of the reserved 1/4 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce over the top of the formed meatloaf. This creates a delicious outer glaze as it bakes.
- Bake the meatloaf uncovered in your preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. The USDA recommends cooking ground turkey to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety.
- After baking, let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
Part 2: Make the Mashed Potatoes
While the meatloaf rests, prepare your creamy mashed potatoes.
- Wash and peel 4 baking potatoes. Cut them into roughly equal-sized chunks to ensure even cooking. Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender but not mushy, which typically takes about 15 minutes for medium chunks.
- Drain the water thoroughly from the potatoes. Return the hot, drained potatoes to the empty pot.
- Add 2 tablespoons of butter or margarine, 1/2 cup milk, the 1 tablespoon of reserved sautéed garlic, 1/2 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese, and 1/2 cup finely shredded asiago or other sharp cheese to the pot with the potatoes.
- Mash the potatoes and added ingredients to your desired consistency. I enjoy mashed potatoes that are a little chunky for texture, but you can mash them until completely smooth. Stir well to combine all flavors.
- Season the mashed potatoes generously with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust as needed until they are perfect.
- Garnish with fresh, finely chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy scoops of these creamy taters alongside your savory meatloaf.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Achieving the perfect meatloaf with mashed potatoes takes a few insider tricks. To prevent dry meatloaf, opt for a ground meat blend with a little fat or stick with lean ground turkey, as used here. Don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture; gentle handling ensures a tender texture. A good glaze on your meatloaf keeps it moist and adds a layer of flavor. For perfectly textured mashed potatoes, boil potatoes until just tender, not waterlogged.
Drain them well and mash them while hot to avoid a gummy result. Always taste and adjust seasonings for both the meatloaf and mashed potatoes to ensure optimal flavor. Ensure your oven is fully preheated for even cooking of the meatloaf.
Serving, Storage, and Variations
Serve this comforting meatloaf with mashed potatoes with a drizzle of homemade gravy, a side of steamed green beans, or roasted broccoli. A simple garden salad also complements the richness of the main dish. For leftovers, store the meatloaf and mashed potatoes in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or oven until heated through.
For variations, consider an Italian-style meatloaf with oregano and mozzarella, or a Mexican-inspired version with chili powder and a hint of cumin. Your mashed potatoes can also become garlic herb potatoes, or you can stir in caramelized onions or even roasted red peppers for added depth.
Nutrition
This classic Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes offers a hearty meal.
Please note that these values are approximations and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 653 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 82 g |
| Protein | 44 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2 g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 6 g |
| Trans Fat | 0.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 94 mg |
| Sodium | 1298 mg |
| Potassium | 1577 mg |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 24 g |
| Vitamin A | 2133 IU |
| Vitamin C | 17 mg |
| Calcium | 368 mg |
| Iron | 4 mg |
| Serving Size | 1 serving |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the history of meatloaf?
Meatloaf as we know it today, a blend of ground meat and seasonings baked in a loaf shape, gained popularity in America during the Great Depression as an economical way to stretch meat. It has roots in older European meat dishes.
How do you make meatloaf moist?
To keep your meatloaf moist, use ground meat with some fat content, or ensure you include binders like oats or breadcrumbs and moistening ingredients such as ketchup or BBQ sauce. Avoid overmixing the ingredients, which can toughen the meat.
How do you make mashed potatoes from scratch?
Making mashed potatoes from scratch involves boiling peeled and chopped potatoes until tender, then draining them thoroughly. Add butter, milk, and seasonings, then mash to your desired consistency until creamy and smooth.
Can you prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the meatloaf mixture and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also boil and mash the potatoes ahead of time, then gently reheat them with a splash of milk before serving.
Can you freeze meatloaf and mashed potatoes?
Yes, both components freeze well. Store cooked and cooled meatloaf slices and mashed potatoes in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
What kind of potatoes are best for mashing?
Starchy potatoes like Russet (baking potatoes) or Yukon Gold are ideal for mashing. They break down easily and absorb butter and milk beautifully, creating a light and fluffy texture.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes is more than just a meal; it’s a heartwarming tradition waiting to be shared. Its ease of preparation and comforting qualities make it a perfect choice for any family gathering, creating cherished moments around the table. We encourage you to try this recipe, connect with loved ones, and savor the simple joy of home cooking. Share your creations and memories in the comments below!
Classic Meatloaf with Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a sauté pan and lightly sauté carrots until soft; then remove and set aside in a large bowl.
- In the same pan, sauté garlic until slightly soft and golden; reserve 1 tablespoon for mashed potatoes and add the rest to the bowl with carrots.
- To the large bowl, add ground turkey, oats, ketchup, BBQ sauce, parsley, salt, and pepper; mix thoroughly by hand.
- Form the mixture into a meatloaf log or place it into a loaf pan, ensuring the pan is coated with cooking spray if not non-stick.
- Bake uncovered at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, then let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Cook baking potatoes in a pot of boiling water for about 15 minutes until slightly soft.
- Drain the water, return potatoes to the pot, then add milk, cheese, reserved sautéed garlic, salt, and pepper; mash to your desired consistency.
- Sprinkle with parsley and serve scoops alongside the meatloaf.
Notes
Diabetes Nutrition Specialist | Healthy Diet Advocate | Founder of GoldFoodie.
My passion for nutrition began with a deeply personal journey supporting my father through his battle with diabetes. Watching his daily struggles made me realize how powerful the right food choices can be in improving quality of life. That experience drove me to dedicate my career to helping others live healthier, more balanced lives.
- Rocco Fuhrman
- Rocco Fuhrman
- Rocco Fuhrman
- Rocco Fuhrman
