Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes Cheese

This Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese is everything I crave in a comfort meal. Imagine a sliceable casserole layered with savory meatloaf, fluffy mashed potatoes, and a gooey cheddar top. It is perfect for a Sunday dinner or for prepping a week’s worth of feel-good lunches. The whole family digs in with smiles every time.

I first made this after a chilly soccer game when everyone needed something hearty. Now it’s always requested on cold evenings or when someone needs a food hug.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Choose 85 percent lean for both a tender and flavorful base Look for fresh pink meat without too much excess fat
• Plain breadcrumbs: Help hold the loaf together and give a soft texture Go for unseasoned so the spice blend can shine
• Milk: Softens the breadcrumbs for a juicy meatloaf Whole milk adds richness but any type works
• Egg: Binds everything without making it dense Choose a large egg for best results
• Ketchup: Classic tangy sweetness that keeps the loaf moist Opt for a good quality ketchup for clean tomato flavor
• Garlic powder and onion powder: Add depth and savvy flavor with every bite Choose fresh spices
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing the flavors Freshly ground pepper can make a big difference
• Mashed potatoes: The ultimate comfort topping Use leftovers for ease or make fresh and fluffy
• Sour cream: Makes potatoes super creamy and tangy Use full fat for richness if you can
• Butter: Adds that buttery flavor people expect in mashed potatoes Unsalted lets you control seasoning
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into a bubbly golden crust Go for sharp cheddar for the most punch
• Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of green and freshness at the end Pick vibrant leaves for best color

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare the Pan:

Set your oven to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit and ready a nine by nine inch baking dish by greasing or lining with parchment. This keeps everything from sticking and makes clean up easy

Mix the Meatloaf Layer:

In a large bowl gently stir together ground beef breadcrumbs milk egg ketchup garlic powder onion powder salt and pepper. Keep mixing gentle so the loaf stays tender and not tough

Press and Bake the Meat Layer:

Evenly press the meat mixture into your prepared dish Use your hands or a spatula for an even layer Bake for about twenty to twenty five minutes until the meat is mostly cooked through and the edges start to brown

Prepare the Mashed Potato Layer:

While the meat is baking warm up your mashed potatoes in a bowl Blend in the sour cream and butter and season with salt and pepper to taste Stir until everything is creamy and smoothly combined

Layer the Mashed Potatoes:

After the meatloaf has baked gently spread the mashed potatoes all over the top Make sure you cover edge to edge for that perfect layered bite

Add Cheese and Bake Again:

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar over the potatoes Place back in the oven for another ten to fifteen minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden

Rest Garnish Serve:

Let the casserole cool for five to ten minutes Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley Slice into squares and serve warm Enjoy every cozy bite

Pin

I always look forward to that cheesy melted topping The aroma as it comes out of the oven brings everyone to the table in a hurry It reminds me of the way my mom would layer cheese on everything when I was a kid making regular dinners feel special

Storage Tips

Wrap leftovers tightly and store in the fridge for up to four days For longer storage freeze individual slices on a baking sheet then transfer to a freezer bag Microwave or reheat covered in the oven until hot Cheese will remelt perfectly after a stir or a quick broil

Ingredient Substitutions

You can easily swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken Try using Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for the topping If you do not have sour cream in the potatoes greek yogurt or even a splash of cream will work

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Serving Suggestions

Serve with a green veggie like steamed broccoli or a simple side salad I always add a dash of extra ketchup or gravy on top for my kids This dish pairs well with pickles for a tangy contrast

Cultural and Historical Context

Meatloaf has roots in recipes of stretching modest cuts of meat with grains and moisture sources like crumbs and milk Topping it all with mashed potatoes and cheese was a favorite invention in the Midwest It became a popular bring along for community potlucks and made regular appearances at my grandmother’s table on Sunday

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?

Yes, leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly and make assembling the layers even quicker.

→ How do I prevent the meatloaf layer from drying out?

Avoid overmixing the beef, and bake until just cooked through to keep it moist and tender.

→ What type of cheese is best for the topping?

Sharp cheddar melts well and offers a bold flavor, but you can try mozzarella or Monterey Jack for variety.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the layers and refrigerate before baking. Bake when ready to serve for best results.

→ Are there flavor variations I can try?

Enhance with sautéed onions, add herbs like thyme or parsley, or swap beef for turkey or pork if desired.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced, comforting meal.