Cheesy Meatloaf on Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs (900g) ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup heavy cream or milk (adjust for desired creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- Boil the diced potatoes in salted water for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Drain the water and return the potatoes to the pot.
- Add butter, cream, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly in a large, foil-lined baking dish. Set aside.
2. Make the Meatloaf Mixture:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, parsley, and paprika.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Shape and Bake:
- Form the meatloaf mixture into individual mini loaves or one large loaf. Place them directly on top of the mashed potatoes in the baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
4. Add the Cheese Topping:
- Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the meatloaf.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Ingredients with Details
For the Meatloaf
- 2 lbs (900g) Ground Meat: Use beef for a classic flavor, or a blend of beef and pork for added richness. Ground turkey or chicken can also work for a leaner version.
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs or panko for extra texture.
- 1 medium Onion: Finely diced for flavor without overpowering.
- 2 Garlic Cloves: Minced for an aromatic punch.
- 1 large Egg: Helps bind the meatloaf together.
- 1/3 cup Ketchup: Adds moisture and a tangy sweetness. BBQ sauce or tomato paste can be used for a different flavor profile.
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce: For depth and a slightly smoky, umami flavor.
- 1 tsp Salt: Balances and enhances the flavors.
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper: Freshly ground for a subtle heat.
- 1 tsp Dried Parsley: Adds a light herbaceous touch.
- 1 tsp Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a hint of smokiness, or regular paprika works for mild sweetness.
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor. You can substitute Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend.
- Fresh Thyme or Parsley (Optional): For garnishing, adding a fresh, vibrant look and taste.
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 6 Medium Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture.
- 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter: Adjust based on taste; butter adds richness.
- 1/3 cup Heavy Cream or Milk: Adjust for desired creaminess. For extra decadence, use half-and-half.
- Salt and Pepper to Taste: Essential for flavoring the potatoes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Boil the Potatoes: Place peeled and diced potatoes into a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Tip: Start with cold water to ensure even cooking.
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain the water and return the potatoes to the pot. While still hot, add butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
- Tip: For a silkier texture, use a potato ricer or a hand mixer. Avoid overmixing to prevent a gummy consistency.
- Spread in the Baking Dish: Grease a large baking dish with butter or non-stick spray, then spread the mashed potatoes evenly across the bottom. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, parsley, and paprika.
- Tip: Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix gently. Overmixing can result in a dense meatloaf.
- Divide the mixture into individual portions or shape it into a single large loaf, depending on your preference.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Arrange the Meatloaf: Place the mini meatloaves (or the large loaf) directly on top of the mashed potatoes in the baking dish.
- Tip: Create slight indents on the loaves to catch more melted cheese during baking.
- Bake the Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Cheesy Topping
- Cheese Time: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the meatloaf.
- Optional: Add a sprinkle of parmesan or a dash of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Final Bake: Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes to let the flavors settle.
- Garnish with fresh thyme, parsley, or even a sprinkle of chives for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve warm and enjoy! This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Prevent Soggy Potatoes: Make sure to drain the potatoes completely before mashing to avoid watery mashed potatoes.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety.
- Line with Foil: For easier cleanup, line the baking dish with foil or parchment paper before adding the mashed potatoes.
- Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a kick.
Variations
1. Italian-Style Meatloaf and Potatoes
- Add Italian seasoning to the meatloaf mixture.
- Use marinara sauce instead of ketchup and mozzarella instead of cheddar.
2. BBQ Cheesy Meatloaf
- Replace ketchup with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor.
- Mix smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese with cheddar for the topping.
3. Loaded Mashed Potatoes
- Mix bacon bits, shredded cheese, and chives into the mashed potatoes for an indulgent twist.
4. Spicy Kick
- Add chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper to the meat mixture.
- Top with pepper jack cheese for extra heat.
Serving Suggestions
- Make It a Meal: Serve with roasted vegetables, coleslaw, or garlic bread.
- Party-Ready: Bake the dish in a disposable foil tray for easy serving at potlucks or gatherings.
- Kids’ Favorite: Turn the meatloaf into mini muffin-shaped portions for fun, kid-friendly servings.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for Later: Place individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave until heated through.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Meatloaf on Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender, flavorful meatloaf with creamy, buttery potatoes. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a holiday meal, or meal prep, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Customize it to suit your taste, and enjoy the perfect blend of hearty and cheesy goodness!