Description
This classic Meatloaf with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes recipe combines a savory, tender meatloaf baked to perfection with creamy, rich mashed potatoes infused with cheddar cheese. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, this hearty dish features ground beef mixed with aromatic onions, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce, topped with optional ketchup for a sweet and tangy glaze. The mashed potatoes are prepared with butter, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese for an indulgent side that pairs beautifully with the meatloaf.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (optional, for topping)
Mashed Potatoes
- 8 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
- ½ cup butter
- ½ cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the meatloaf to a perfect golden brown.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape and Prepare Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan, pressing it down evenly to form the loaf shape. Optionally, spread ketchup over the top for additional flavor and a glossy finish.
- Bake the Meatloaf: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked and the top is nicely browned.
- Boil Potatoes: While the meatloaf bakes, place the chopped potatoes in a large pot of salted water and boil until tender, about 20 minutes.
- Drain and Mash Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter and milk, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Cheese to Mashed Potatoes: Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until it melts completely, creating a creamy and cheesy texture.
- Rest the Meatloaf: Once baked, allow the meatloaf to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
- Serve: Slice the meatloaf and serve it alongside a generous scoop of cheesy mashed potatoes. Enjoy your comforting meal!
Notes
- For a moister meatloaf, avoid overmixing the meat mixture which can make it dense.
- Using freshly grated cheese enhances the flavor and melting texture in the mashed potatoes.
- Ketchup topping is optional but adds a nice tangy sweetness and aesthetic gloss to the meatloaf.
- Let the meatloaf rest after baking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring juiciness.
- To save time, prepare the mashed potatoes while the meatloaf bakes.
