Description
This Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese recipe is a comforting, hearty meal perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Featuring a flavorful ground beef meatloaf base topped with creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheddar cheese, this dish combines classic comfort food elements into one satisfying casserole, baked to perfection for a warm, cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Layer:
- 1 lb ground beef (85/15 preferred)
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Mashed Potato Layer:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared or leftover)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9×9-inch baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently just until combined to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Form Meatloaf Layer: Spread the meat mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place it into the oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until partially cooked.
- Prepare Mashed Potatoes: While the meatloaf bakes, warm the mashed potatoes in a microwave or on the stovetop. Stir in sour cream and butter, then season with salt and pepper to taste for extra creaminess and flavor.
- Layer the Potatoes: Once the meatloaf has baked, carefully spread the creamy mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf layer in the baking dish.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potato layer. Return the dish to the oven and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, slice, and serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Use prepared or leftover mashed potatoes to save time and enhance flavor.
- For a lower-fat version, use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey.
- Adjust seasoning in mashed potatoes to your preference for salt and pepper.
- Fresh parsley garnish adds color and a mild herbal note but can be omitted.
- Make sure not to overmix the meatloaf to keep it tender and moist.
- This recipe can be doubled for larger families or meal prep.
