Indulge in a timeless, hearty meal with Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes, the ultimate in comfort cooking. This guide takes you through making a moist, flavorful meatloaf and pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for family dinners, leftovers, or when you crave a homestyle classic, these step-by-step instructions ensure a satisfying dish every time.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes/Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef (80–85% lean) | 1.5 lbs | Can mix with ground pork or turkey |
| Breadcrumbs | 3/4 cup | Whole wheat or panko for extra texture |
| Egg | 1 large | Room temperature |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 small | Sauté beforehand for milder flavor (optional) |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | Adds depth |
| Ketchup (for mixture) | 2 tablespoons | Tomato paste or sauce can substitute |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tablespoon | Adds savory richness |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Adjust as needed |
| Optional: Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon | Or dried thyme, oregano, basil mix |
For the Mashed Potatoes:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes/Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet) | 2 lbs (about 4–5 medium) | Peeled if preferred, cut into chunks |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons | Unsalted recommended |
| Milk or cream | 1/2 cup (approx.) | Adjust to reach desired creaminess |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Season to preference |
Step 2: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease or Line a Loaf Pan:
-
- Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or use parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, gently mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and optional seasoning.
- Shape or Press:
-
- Press the mixture into the loaf pan, leveling the top. Avoid overmixing or pressing too firmly, which can make the loaf dense.
Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf
- Bake Time:
- Place the loaf pan on the middle rack; bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Optional Glaze:
- Halfway through baking, brush the top with extra ketchup for a sweet crust.
- Rest:
-
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to lock in the juices.
Step 5: Prepare Mashed Potatoes
- Boil the Potatoes:
- In a large pot, cover potato chunks with cold water. Add a pinch of salt; bring to a boil. Cook 15–20 minutes until fork-tender.
- Drain and Mash:
-
- Drain the potatoes thoroughly; return them to the pot or a large bowl.
- Add butter, and about 1/2 cup warm milk (adjust as needed). Mash until smooth, seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Serving Suggestions
- Plate Together:
- Slice the meatloaf and serve alongside a generous dollop of mashed potatoes.
- Optional Sides:
- Pair with steamed vegetables, roasted carrots, or a simple salad.
Step 7: Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
- Dry Meatloaf:
- Use adequate breadcrumbs and do not overbake. Adding some sautéed onions or extra ketchup can help retain moisture.
- Dense Texture:
- Mix gently to avoid compacting the meat. Overhandling can lead to a tough loaf.
- Mashed Potato Consistency:
- Add more milk or butter if too thick. Mash less for a chunkier texture.
Step 8: Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
A1: Yes, but monitor the internal temperature (165°F / 74°C) and adjust seasoning for a lighter flavor.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A2: Keep slices in airtight containers up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat gently to maintain moisture.
Q3: Can I freeze cooked meatloaf?
A3: Absolutely—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
Conclusion
Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes is a comforting dish that brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia to the table. By following these steps—mixing the meat carefully, baking to perfection, and pairing with creamy mashed potatoes—you’ll create a homestyle dinner that’s both satisfying and timeless.
