Sometimes, the simplest meals hold the most warmth and bring back the fondest memories. This recipe for Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese is a true classic comfort dish, bringing together a savory meatloaf with a generous topping of creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes.
It’s a perfect combination of familiar flavors and textures that satisfies the soul. This all-in-one wonder offers ease of preparation, making it an ideal choice for a comforting weeknight dinner, especially when you crave that cozy feeling around the family table.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese
This delightful Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese quickly becomes a family favorite. It promises more than just a meal; it’s an experience that nourishes both body and spirit.
- All-in-one hearty meal: Everything you need for a complete, satisfying dinner is baked right in one pan.
- Family-friendly deliciousness: Both kids and adults adore the classic flavors of savory meat and creamy potatoes.
- Customizable ingredients: Easily adapt this recipe with your preferred meats, cheeses, and vegetables.
- Simple, comforting flavors: This dish embodies the genuine taste of home cooking, creating a sense of joy and nostalgia.
- Great for meal prep: Prepare a larger batch and enjoy tasty leftovers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Ingredients
Preparing a homemade Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese begins with simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have. Fresh, quality components truly make this dish shine and bring out those beloved comfort food flavors.
- For the Meatloaf:
- ¾ cup Seasoned Breadcrumbs
- 1 ½ pounds Lean Ground Beef
- 1 Yellow Onion, diced
- 3 tsp Garlic, freshly minced
- 1 Egg
- ¼ cup BBQ Sauce
- ¼ cup Tomato Sauce
- ½ cup Peas, frozen
- 1 tsp Salt
- ½ tsp Black Pepper
- ¼ cup Parsley, chopped
- For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 1 ½ pounds Red Potatoes, peeled and quartered
- ¼ cup Heavy Whipping Cream
- 4 tbsp Butter
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded
Notes & Substitutions
You can easily adapt this recipe for Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese to suit your pantry or preferences. Feel free to explore different options and make it uniquely yours.
- Ground Meat Alternatives: If you prefer, swap the ground beef for ground turkey, pork, or a beef-pork blend for a slightly different texture and flavor in your meatloaf.
- Cheese Varieties: While cheddar is classic, try Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican cheese blend for the topping. A touch of Parmesan in the potatoes also adds depth.
- Vegetable Additions: If peas aren’t a favorite, substitute them with finely diced carrots, corn, or even spinach for extra greens.
- Potato Varieties: Russet potatoes offer a fluffier mash, while Yukon Golds provide a naturally buttery flavor. Any starchy or all-purpose potato works wonderfully.
- Breadcrumb Alternatives: Crushed crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even gluten-free breadcrumbs are great substitutes for seasoned breadcrumbs.
- Sauce Swaps: Experiment with different BBQ sauce flavors, or use ketchup in place of the tomato sauce for a sweeter glaze.
Equipment
You’ll only need a few basic kitchen tools to create this delightful Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese. These items make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet
- Baking pan (a 9×13 inch pan works perfectly)
- Large pot
- Potato masher or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
How To Make Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese
Creating this comforting Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese is a straightforward process. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a heartwarming meal ready for your family in no time. The key to a delicious meatloaf is careful mixing and proper baking.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare your baking pan by lightly greasing it.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add a touch of oil and sauté the diced yellow onion until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside to allow the cooked onions and garlic to cool completely. This cooling step prevents the egg from cooking when mixed with the meat.
- While the onion cools, place the peeled and quartered red potatoes into a large pot. Cover them with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, then thoroughly drain them.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, seasoned breadcrumbs, BBQ sauce, tomato sauce, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Add the cooled sautéed onions and garlic to the mixture.
- Knead the ingredients with your hands until everything is just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to a dense or tough meatloaf. Gently mix until no streaks of raw meat remain.
- Gently fold in the frozen peas. Distribute them evenly throughout the meat mixture without breaking them too much.
- Form the meat mixture into a loaf-shaped log in the prepared baking pan. Ensure it’s evenly thick for consistent cooking.
- Bake the meatloaf for 30 minutes in the preheated oven. This par-baking step allows the meatloaf to firm up before adding the potato topping.
- While the meatloaf bakes, mash the drained potatoes in their pot. Add the butter and heavy whipping cream, mashing until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the partially baked meatloaf from the oven.
- Spread the creamy mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meatloaf, covering it completely like a blanket.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the mashed potatoes.
- Return the baking pan to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown. This final bake finishes the Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a more tender and flavorful result.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Making a truly exceptional Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese is simple with a few helpful pointers. These tips will ensure your meal is a resounding success every time.
- Do not overmix: Overworking the meatloaf mixture can make it dense and dry. Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
- Achieve perfectly creamy mashed potatoes: For the smoothest mash, make sure potatoes are hot when mashing. Use warmed cream and softened butter for easy incorporation.
- Ensure meatloaf is cooked through: Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). This ensures safety and perfect doneness. According to the USDA, ground beef should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
- Brown the cheesy potato topping: For a beautiful golden crust, consider a quick broil for the last minute or two after the cheese has melted, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Troubleshoot dry meatloaf solutions: If your meatloaf seems dry, it might be overcooked or under-moisturized. Next time, add an extra tablespoon of BBQ or tomato sauce to the mix, or ensure you’re using lean but not extra-lean ground beef.
Serving Suggestions, Storage, and Variations
This Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese is a complete meal on its own, but these ideas can enhance your dining experience. Thoughtful storage ensures you can savor every last bite.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to add freshness.
- Serve alongside steamed green beans or roasted asparagus for a healthy side.
- Offer extra gravy, warm ketchup, or a dollop of sour cream on the side for dipping.
Storage Instructions
- Cool the leftover Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese completely before storing.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully.
- For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then placed in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
- Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if reheating in the oven to prevent drying.
Flavor Variations
- Cheese Blends: Try smoked gouda or Gruyere mixed with the cheddar for a more complex topping.
- Herbs: Stir fresh chives or dill into your mashed potatoes for an aromatic twist.
- BBQ Sauces: Experiment with a spicy chipotle BBQ sauce or a sweet honey mustard BBQ sauce in the meatloaf mixture.
- Veggies: Add finely chopped mushrooms or bell peppers to the meatloaf mix for extra flavor and nutrients.
Nutrition Information
Enjoying a hearty meal like this Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese means understanding its nourishing qualities. We’re providing the nutritional breakdown to help you make informed choices.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 658 calories |
| Carbohydrate Content | 45 grams |
| Cholesterol Content | 182 milligrams |
| Fat Content | 33 grams |
| Fiber Content | 5 grams |
| Protein Content | 44 grams |
| Saturated Fat Content | 17 grams |
| Sodium Content | 1068 milligrams |
| Sugar Content | 8 grams |
| Trans Fat Content | 1 grams |
| Unsaturated Fat Content | 13 grams |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods. This information is for general guidance and should not replace professional dietary advice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
You might have a few questions about making the perfect Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese. Here are some common inquiries and their answers to help you along the way.
What’s the best ground meat to use?
Lean ground beef (80/20) is ideal for flavor and moisture, offering enough fat to keep it tender without being greasy.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
For the best flavor and texture, fresh potatoes are highly recommended over instant for this recipe.
How do I prevent my meatloaf from being dry?
Ensure you don’t overcook it, use lean but not extra-lean meat, and don’t overmix the ingredients.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and form it in the pan up to a day in advance before baking.
What cheese melts best on top?
Medium cheddar melts beautifully, but Monterey Jack or Colby are also excellent choices for a creamy, bubbly topping.
Final Thoughts
This Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese recipe truly embodies the essence of comfort food and family connection. It’s a dish that fills your home with inviting aromas and your loved ones with warmth and satisfaction. Simple to prepare yet profoundly rewarding, it brings together timeless flavors in one delicious pan.
We encourage you to gather your ingredients, take your time with each step, and create this memorable Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese for your own family. It’s more than just food; it’s an invitation to make cherished memories around the table.
Ultimate Comfort: Savory Meatloaf with Creamy Mashed Potatoes and Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion until soft and translucent, then stir in minced garlic for 30 seconds before removing from heat to cool.
- Meanwhile, boil the peeled and quartered potatoes until they are fork-tender, then drain them well.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, tomato sauce, BBQ sauce, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley; knead with your hands until thoroughly mixed.
- Gently fold in the frozen peas, then form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it into a baking pan.
- Bake the meatloaf for 30 minutes.
- While the meatloaf is baking, blend the boiled potatoes with the butter and heavy whipping cream until smooth and creamy.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven, evenly spread the mashed potatoes over the top, and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
Hi there, I’m chef living in New York City. Every morning, I wake up to the sounds of my little one’s laughter and the comforting routine of preparing breakfast for my family my husband, our child, and my beloved mother, who’s become both my rock and my inspiration since my father passed away. As the only daughter left in our family, I feel a deep responsibility to carry on his memory whenever I step into the kitchen.
- Dominiquehttps://goldfoodie.com/author/empirecipegmail-com/
- Dominiquehttps://goldfoodie.com/author/empirecipegmail-com/
- Dominiquehttps://goldfoodie.com/author/empirecipegmail-com/
- Dominiquehttps://goldfoodie.com/author/empirecipegmail-com/
