The Ultimate Comfort Meal: Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Melted Cheese

 



Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf

  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the meatloaf cooks evenly and stays juicy.

  2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, bread crumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, and optional dried thyme and oregano. Use your hands or a large spoon to mix everything until well combined, but avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatloaf dense.

  3. Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Press it down gently to ensure even thickness.

  4. Top with Ketchup: Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top of the meatloaf. This gives it a slight tang and helps create a caramelized glaze as it bakes.

  5. Bake: Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 2: Make the Mashed Potatoes

  1. Cook the Potatoes: While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the mashed potatoes. Place the peeled and chopped potatoes in a large pot of cold, salted water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

  2. Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes well, then return them to the pot. Add the butter and milk (or cream) and use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  3. Keep Warm: Cover the pot to keep the mashed potatoes warm until the meatloaf is ready. If they cool down, you can reheat them briefly before assembling the dish.

Step 3: Assemble and Add the Cheese

  1. Layer the Mashed Potatoes on the Meatloaf: Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven but keep the oven on. Carefully spread an even layer of mashed potatoes on top of the meatloaf. You can use a spatula to make sure the potatoes are smooth and cover the meatloaf entirely.

  2. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the mashed potatoes layer. The cheese will melt and create a deliciously gooey topping, so don’t be shy!

  3. Bake to Melt the Cheese: Return the meatloaf with mashed potatoes and cheese topping to the oven. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden brown finish, you can broil the top for 2-3 minutes, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Let It Rest: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set, making it easier to serve.

  2. Slice and Serve: Use a sharp knife to cut thick slices and serve each portion with a side of vegetables, such as steamed green beans, carrots, or a simple salad.

Tips for Perfect Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes with Cheese

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onion, and high-quality ground meat will elevate the flavor of the meatloaf.
  • Don’t Overwork the Meat: Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough, so mix just until the ingredients are combined.
  • Choose the Right Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but mozzarella or a blend of cheeses works well, too. If you like a stronger flavor, try a mix with Parmesan.
  • Customize Your Meatloaf: You can add other seasonings, like parsley or paprika, or even mix in shredded veggies, such as carrots or bell peppers, to add moisture and nutrients.
  • Creamier Mashed Potatoes: For extra creamy potatoes, increase the butter or add a splash of cream. Sour cream can also add a tangy twist.