Meatloaf with Smooth Mashed Potatoes: A Comforting Classic Meal
There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty meal like meatloaf with smooth mashed potatoes. This dish is a true classic, loved for its simplicity and satisfying flavors. The tender, juicy meatloaf pairs perfectly with rich, creamy mashed potatoes, creating a combination that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner for two, this meal brings a sense of tradition and comfort that never goes out of style.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and affordability. With ingredients like ground beef, breadcrumbs, and basic seasonings, you can create a moist, flavorful meatloaf. The mashed potatoes are the perfect side, offering a creamy, luxurious texture that balances the heartiness of the meatloaf. It’s a dish that appeals to all ages, evoking nostalgic memories of home-cooked meals and family dinners.
For the perfect dining experience, serve this meatloaf alongside a crisp green salad or some lightly steamed vegetables to add a refreshing crunch. You can also top the mashed potatoes with gravy to bring out even more rich, savory flavors. To finish the meal, pair it with a glass of red wine or perhaps a sweet fruit compote for a well-rounded dinner that will leave everyone feeling satisfied.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 pounds ground beef (85% lean fat content)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of oil, setting it aside for the meatloaf.
2. Soak the Bread in Milk:
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to soak up the milk. This will help create a tender, moist meatloaf.
3. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, the soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring the ingredients are well combined.
4. Form the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture into the greased baking dish, shaping it into a loaf form.
5. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and a bit of Dijon mustard (optional for extra flavor). Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
6. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). This ensures the meat is cooked through and the loaf is perfectly tender.
7. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
While the meatloaf is baking, bring a large pot of cold water to a boil and add the peeled and chopped potatoes. Sprinkle with a little salt and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are soft when pierced with a fork.
8. Mash the Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are tender, drain them and return them to the pot. Add milk, butter, and salt and pepper to taste. Mash the potatoes until they’re smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Assemble the Casserole:
When the meatloaf is finished baking, spread the creamy mashed potatoes over the top. Sprinkle with the grated cheddar cheese, and return the dish to the oven. Broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Let the meatloaf sit for about 10 minutes before slicing it. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips for Perfection:
- For extra flavor: Try adding finely chopped herbs like rosemary or parsley to the meatloaf mixture.
- Make ahead: This dish is great for meal prep. You can assemble the meatloaf and mashed potatoes ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
- Gravy: For an added richness, serve with a simple homemade brown gravy or your favorite store-bought version.
Why You’ll Love This Dish:
Meatloaf with mashed potatoes is the ultimate comfort food—filling, hearty, and incredibly flavorful. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together around the table, evoking memories of family dinners, holiday meals, and home-cooked goodness. With its rich, savory flavor and creamy mashed potatoes, this meal is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Enjoy this satisfying meatloaf with smooth mashed potatoes and savor the classic comfort it brings to your dining table.