Description
A comforting classic American recipe featuring a savory baked meatloaf topped with creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the meatloaf.
- Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are just combined to avoid overworking the meat, ensuring a tender texture.
- Shape and Bake the Meatloaf: Press the mixture into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan or form it into a loaf shape on a lined baking sheet. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), indicating it is fully cooked through.
- Cook the Mashed Potatoes: While the meatloaf bakes, boil the peeled and cubed russet potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes or until they are fork-tender. Drain well and return potatoes to the pot.
- Mash the Potatoes: Add butter, milk, salt, and black pepper to the drained potatoes. Mash until the mixture is smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning to taste.
- Assemble and Finish Baking: Once the meatloaf is done baking, remove it from the oven and carefully spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices and make serving easier.
Notes
- You can prepare the mashed potatoes a day in advance to save time during assembly.
- Swap cheddar cheese with mozzarella or Colby Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Allow the meatloaf to rest longer before slicing for a firmer texture and easier slicing.
