Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese

Combining the heartiness of meatloaf with the comfort of mashed potatoes and the indulgence of cheese, this recipe for Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese is a delightful twist on classic comfort food. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this dish encapsulates the essence of home-cooked meals that warm the soul. With its savory beef base, creamy potato layer, and crispy cheese topping, it's a complete meal that promises to satisfy even the most voracious appetites.

Ingredients

 

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 ½ pounds Ground Beef (85/15)
• ¼ yellow onion, finely chopped
• ⅔ cup seasoned dry breadcrumbs
• ⅓ cup whole milk
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoons kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper

Toppings:

• ½ cup bacon bits, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

Preparation

 

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Start by preparing the meatloaf mixture. In a large bowl, gently mix together the ground beef, finely chopped onion, seasoned breadcrumbs, whole milk, lightly beaten egg, kosher salt, and coarse ground black pepper. Once combined, press this mixture evenly into a 9×9 baking dish.

Step 2: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15 minutes. After this initial baking, carefully remove the dish from the oven and drain any excess fat that has accumulated.

Step 3: While the meatloaf is in the oven, prepare the mashed potatoes. Place the peeled and chopped potatoes in a pot, covering them with just enough water. Bring this to a boil over high heat, then let cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain the water and add the unsalted butter, whole milk, kosher salt, and coarse ground black pepper to the pot with the potatoes. Mash the mixture until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the partially cooked meatloaf. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes, followed by the crumbled bacon bits for a crispy, flavorful finish.

Step 6: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes. During this final bake, the bacon will become sizzling, the cheese will bubble and start to brown, and the mashed potatoes will form a slightly crispy crust on top.

Step 7: Once baked to perfection, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.

 

Serving Suggestions

Serve this meatloaf with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad to add a touch of freshness to the meal. A dollop of sour cream on top of the mashed potatoes can also enhance the flavors and add a creamy texture.

Tips

• For a lighter version, ground turkey can be used in place of beef.
• Adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the mashed potatoes can infuse them with aromatic flavors.
• Ensure the meatloaf is not overmixed to keep the texture tender and juicy.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 600-700 per serving. Protein: Around 35-40 grams per serving. Sodium: Approximately 700-800 mg per serving.

These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese is a comforting, satisfying dish that combines all the flavors of a homely meal into one. It's a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly delightful. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to bring smiles and warm hearts. Enjoy the process of making it and the joy of sharing it with your loved ones.