Description
This Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food. A juicy, tender meatloaf forms the base, topped with creamy mashed potatoes and melted golden cheese. It’s hearty, family-friendly, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef (or turkey/chicken for leaner option)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers/oats)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup ketchup (or tomato paste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup warm milk (or broth)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella/Monterey Jack)
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatloaf Base: Preheat oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined. Shape into a loaf and place in a greased baking dish.
- Bake the Meatloaf: Cook uncovered for 40 minutes until nearly done. While baking, prepare the mashed potatoes.
- Make the Mashed Potatoes: Boil peeled potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain, then mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Layer with Potatoes: Spread mashed potatoes evenly on top of the cooked meatloaf.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Bake for another 15–20 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Rest and Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley or chives and serve warm.
Notes
For lighter mashed potatoes, replace butter with olive oil and milk with broth. To make it ahead, assemble the meatloaf and mashed potatoes, then refrigerate; top with cheese and bake just before serving. Try swapping cheddar for mozzarella or adding cooked bacon bits for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice with potato topping
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 125mg