Classic Meatloaf with Creamy Mashed Potatoes & Melty Cheese

Description

This comforting, homestyle dish features a juicy, flavorful meatloaf topped with melted cheese, paired with rich, buttery mashed potatoes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, it brings a delicious balance of protein, carbs, and indulgent flavor.

Ingredients for Classic Meatloaf with Creamy Mashed Potatoes & Melty Cheese

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20)

• 1/2 lb ground pork (optional, for extra moisture)

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1 egg

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tbsp ketchup

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning

• Salt & pepper to taste

• 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella (for topping)

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon gold or russet), peeled and cubed

• 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream

• 4 tbsp butter

• Salt to taste

• Optional: 1/4 cup sour cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess

Instructions

🔸 Prepare the Meatloaf:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large bowl, mix breadcrumbs and milk; let sit for 2 minutes.

3. Add beef, pork, egg, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.

4. Form into a loaf shape and place on a lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan.

5. Bake for 40 minutes. Remove, top with shredded cheese, and return to the oven for another 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

6. Let rest 5 minutes before slicing.

🔸 Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

1. Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 15–20 mins).

2. Drain and return to pot. Add butter, milk, and salt. Mash until smooth.

3. Add sour cream or cream cheese if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Notes

• Mixing beef with pork adds tenderness and flavor.

• Don’t overwork the meat mixture; it can make the meatloaf dense.

• Cheese can be swapped with provolone, pepper jack, or Swiss.

• Leftovers make great sandwiches!

Tips

• Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness (160°F internal).

• If meatloaf mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs gradually.

• Line baking pan with foil or parchment for easy cleanup.

• To make ahead: Prepare meatloaf, refrigerate covered up to 1 day, then bake.

Servings

• 4 to 6 servings

Nutritional Info (Per Serving, approx.)

• Calories: 520

• Protein: 30g

• Carbs: 32g

• Fat: 30g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sodium: 580mg

• Calcium: 200mg

Benefits

• High protein for muscle repair and satiety.

• Comfort food classic — great for family meals.

• Customizable — switch cheeses, seasonings, or serve with veggies.

Q&A

Q: Can I use only ground beef?
A: Yes, but using a mix with pork or veal adds extra tenderness and flavor.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure other condiments are GF-certified.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate in airtight container up to 4 days. Reheat in oven or microwave.

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes. Freeze slices or whole loaf (without cheese), then thaw and reheat with cheese added before serving.