If you’re in search of the ultimate comfort food, look no further than Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese. Imagine a savory, tender meatloaf layered with creamy, buttery mashed potatoes, then finished with a blanket of gooey, golden cheddar. Every bite is a satisfying hug, blending hearty flavors and dreamy textures, all topped off with a touch of fresh parsley if you fancy. This is the kind of dish that fills the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and draws everyone to the table, making any dinner feel like a special occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese is how it transforms simple, honest ingredients into a show-stopping meal. Each element—meat, potatoes, cheese—pulls its own weight to deliver big, cozy flavors and a beautiful, hearty appearance.
- Ground beef (80/20): The fat content keeps the meatloaf juicy and rich—no one wants a dry meatloaf!
- Breadcrumbs: Acts as the perfect binder to help hold everything together while keeping the loaf tender.
- Onion: Finely diced for savory sweetness and that classic comfort taste in every bite.
- Garlic: Just a couple of cloves for a delicious aromatic background.
- Egg: The magic ingredient that brings the mixture together and ensures a firm slice.
- Milk: Softens up the breadcrumbs for a juicy, melt-in-your-mouth loaf.
- Ketchup: Adds tangy sweetness and gorgeous color to both the meatloaf and the crust.
- Worcestershire sauce: A splash gives that extra depth and savory punch.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Simple seasoning that wakes up all the flavors.
- Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes: Both make fluffy, creamy mashes that sit beautifully atop the loaf.
- Butter: For that luscious, dreamy mouthfeel in your mashed potatoes.
- More Milk (for potatoes): Warms and loosens the mash for perfect spreadability.
- Cheddar cheese: The final touch—sharp, melty, and irresistibly golden when baked.
- Chopped parsley: Optional, but a sprinkle creates that fresh, inviting finish.
How to Make Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese
Step 1: Mix and Shape the Meatloaf
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, bring together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely diced onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until just combined—don’t overwork it, or your meatloaf could turn dense. Once ready, either press the mixture into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan or shape it gently by hand on a lined baking sheet. This sets the stage for a loaf that’s both tender and flavor-packed.
Step 2: Bake the Meatloaf
Slide the loaf into your preheated oven and bake for about 40 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the magic number is an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). While it bakes, your kitchen will start to smell incredible, thanks to the onions, garlic, and savory beef melding together.
Step 3: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
While the meatloaf is in the oven, peel and cube your potatoes, then boil them in a generously salted pot of water. After about 15–20 minutes, they should be fork-tender and ready for mashing. Drain thoroughly, return them to the pot, and add warm milk, butter, and plenty of salt and pepper. Mash until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and absolutely irresistible.
Step 4: Layer and Top with Cheese
Once the meatloaf is cooked through, carefully spread the mashed potatoes over the top of the loaf in an even, inviting layer. Don’t worry about perfection—it’s all part of the rustic charm. Next, scatter a full cloud of shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes. The cheese will melt into a golden, bubbly crust that no one can resist.
Step 5: Final Bake and Rest
Pop the covered loaf back in the oven for one last 10-minute bake, just enough for the cheese to turn gloriously melted and bubbling. When time’s up, remove the loaf and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. This step lets all the layers settle, so it’s easier to slice and serve without the potatoes sliding off.
How to Serve Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese
Garnishes
For that finishing flourish, sprinkle a healthy dose of fresh, chopped parsley over the melted cheese. The green adds a pop of color and a fresh note to every hearty slice. If you want even more pizzazz, consider a few twists of cracked black pepper or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Side Dishes
While Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese is a meal in itself, consider adding a side of crisp green beans or a simple mixed salad for brightness. Roasted carrots or buttered peas also make lovely complements, balancing the creamy, savory richness of the main event.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful with your presentation! A rustic loaf served family-style invites everyone to gather round and dig in together. For special occasions, consider slicing thick portions and arranging them on a platter, topped with a swirl of extra mashed potatoes and a shower of cheese. Leftovers? Try cutting the meatloaf into bite-sized cubes and skewering them for fun party appetizers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese is pure gold—tuck any extras into an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for fabulous next-day lunches. Properly stored in the fridge, your leftovers will be fresh and tasty for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Want to get ahead or save a portion for later? You can absolutely freeze this dish. Slice into individual portions and wrap tightly, or freeze the whole loaf once cooled. If possible, freeze before adding the cheese topping for the very best texture. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
For optimal results, reheat Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil to keep the moisture in. Give it about 20–25 minutes, or until warmed to your liking. Individual slices can be microwaved for a quick meal, though the oven maintains that deliciously crisp cheese layer.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While classic beef brings terrific flavor, you can use ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even a mix. Just keep an eye on moisture—leaner meats may need an extra splash of milk or a touch more breadcrumbs to stay juicy.
What’s the best cheese to use for the topping?
Sharp cheddar is the go-to for its meltability and bold taste, but you can swap in Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a smoky gouda. Just choose something that melts beautifully and enjoys center stage atop the mashed potato layer.
Is it okay to use instant mashed potatoes?
You can! While homemade mashed potatoes take the dish to the next level, a quality store-bought or instant potato will still give good texture and is perfect when time is tight. Just prepare them a little thicker than you might for eating on their own.
Can I make Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese ahead of time?
Definitely. You can assemble the entire loaf (meat and potatoes, skip the cheese), cover, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, add the cheese and place it in the oven. This trick is a lifesaver for busy weeknights or prepping for a gathering.
How do I prevent the mashed potatoes from sliding off when slicing?
Let your Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese rest for at least 5–10 minutes out of the oven. This helps the layers firm up so each slice holds its shape. Use a sharp, thin-bladed knife and a gentle hand for picture-perfect servings!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm embrace, Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese is the recipe to try. It’s comfort food at its most joyful and generous, guaranteed to win over family and friends alike. Give it a whirl—you just might find your new favorite way to bring everyone together around the table.
Print
Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this delicious recipe for Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese. Perfect for a hearty family dinner, this dish combines savory meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, topped with a generous layer of melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients
For the meatloaf:
- 1½ lbs ground beef (80/20)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion (finely diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the mashed potatoes:
- 2 lbs russet or Yukon gold potatoes (peeled and cubed)
- ½ cup milk (warm)
- 4 tbsp butter
- salt and pepper to taste
For the topping:
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine all meatloaf ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased loaf pan and bake for 40–45 minutes.
- Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash with milk, butter, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mashed potatoes over the meatloaf, top with cheddar cheese, and bake for 10 minutes.
- Let rest before slicing and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- For a shortcut, use store-bought mashed potatoes.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or cooked bacon under the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
- This dish reheats well and makes great leftovers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice with potatoes and cheese
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
