Cooking can often feel like an endless cycle of searching for the perfect family-friendly meal, but let me introduce you to a dish that is both comforting and soul-satisfying: Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese. Juicy, flavorful, and topped with gooey cheese, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that brings the family together at the dinner table. A fun fact about meatloaf is that its origins date back to the 5th century, showcasing how long this dish has been a staple in many households. What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and quick preparation time, allowing you to create a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies for the little ones!
If you’ve enjoyed recipes like my creamy chicken casserole, you’ll love this meatloaf dish as it offers similar comfort and ease. With that said, why not gather your ingredients and discover the joy of stepping into your kitchen to whip up this delightful meal? Let’s dig in!
What is Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese?
You might be wondering, what’s the story behind such an intriguing name? Well, meatloaf is essentially a loaf-shaped mixture of meat, which might beg the question: why in the world do we call a ground meat mixture a ‘loaf’? Isn’t that more known for bread? Perhaps it stems from the idea that it ‘loafs around’ in the pan until it’s done! It’s been said that “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this meatloaf might just be the dish to win over anyone; it’s hard to resist a slice of perfectly baked, cheesy goodness! So, if you’re looking for a satisfying meal, put on your apron and give this recipe a try.
Why You’ll Love This Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese
Why is this recipe so beloved? First and foremost, the main highlight is undoubtedly the combination of juicy meatloaf with rich, creamy mashed potatoes, all topped off with melted cheese — a guaranteed hit for any dinner table! Plus, making meatloaf from scratch is cost-effective; you can easily feed a family without breaking the bank. The flavorful blend of spices and herbs elevates this dish, ensuring every bite explodes with deliciousness.
If you enjoy classic casseroles, you might appreciate the familiarity of this meatloaf recipe, which provides comfort while inviting you to explore new flavors. So grab your mixing bowls and get ready to create a dish that is sure to delight your taste buds!
How to Make Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese
Quick Overview
This Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese is a satisfying dish that is not only easy to make but also delivers on taste and texture. With a prep time of about 20 minutes and a cooking time of 50 minutes, you can have a scrumptious meal ready in no time. The creamy mashed potatoes serve as the perfect compliment to the savory meatloaf, creating a well-rounded plate that needs no further embellishment.
Key Ingredients for Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese
To whip up this delicious meal, you will need the following ingredients:
- For the Meatloaf:
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup of milk
- 1 tablespoon of ketchup
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1/4 cup of butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the meatloaf mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, milk, ketchup, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Bake in the oven for about 50 minutes or until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F or 70°C).
- While the meatloaf bakes, prepare the mashed potatoes: Boil the peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper, and mash until smooth and creamy.
- Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven, top it with the shredded cheese, and return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
- Serve slices of meatloaf alongside a generous scoop of mashed potatoes, and enjoy!
Top Tips for Perfecting Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese
- Balance the flavors: Feel free to add sautéed veggies like bell peppers or carrots into your meatloaf mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Choose your cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite flavor combination.
- Don’t overmix: When combining the meatloaf ingredients, mix just until everything is combined to avoid a dense texture.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! Meatloaf and mashed potatoes store beautifully. Let the dish cool completely, then slice the meatloaf and transfer both the meatloaf and mashed potatoes to airtight containers. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or oven until heated through.
By now, you should be itching to try this amazing Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese. It’s not just a meal; it’s a recipe that fills not only your stomach but also your heart. The combination of flavors and aromas will have your family asking for seconds in no time! Happy cooking!
Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 1 pound ground beef Use lean ground beef for better texture.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs For binding the meat mixture.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped Adds flavor to the meatloaf.
- 1 large egg Helps bind the ingredients together.
- 1/4 cup milk To keep the meatloaf moist.
- 1 tablespoon ketchup Adds a touch of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder For extra flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Adds herbs flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste Season to preference.
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed Use starchy potatoes for fluffy mashed potatoes.
- 1/2 cup milk Adjust for desired creaminess.
- 1/4 cup butter For richness in flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste Season to taste.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) For topping the meatloaf.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, milk, ketchup, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
Baking
- Bake in the oven for about 50 minutes or until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F or 70°C).
Mashed Potatoes Preparation
- While the meatloaf bakes, boil the peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper, and mash until smooth and creamy.
Finishing Touch
- Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven, top it with the shredded cheese, and return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
- Serve slices of meatloaf alongside a generous scoop of mashed potatoes, and enjoy!
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