This cozy baked dish combines creamy mashed potatoes, juicy seasoned meatloaf, rich sauce, and melted cheese. It’s comfort food at its best, easy to prepare, filling, and great for leftovers.
Ingredients
For the mashed potatoes
- 2½ to 3 lb potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 3 tablespoons butter
- ½ to ¾ cup warm milk
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced or garlic powder
For the meatloaf
- 1½ lb ground beef (80/20 works best)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
For the topping
- ¾ cup ketchup or beef gravy
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Cheese layer
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
- Optional: mozzarella or Colby Jack mix
Garnish
- Dried thyme or parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the mashed potatoes
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain well. Mash with butter and warm milk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper. Spread evenly into the bottom of a greased baking dish or foil tray.
Step 2: Make the meatloaf mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 3: Shape and cook the meatloaf
Divide the meat mixture into even oval portions and place them directly on top of the mashed potatoes, gently pressing them in slightly.
Step 4: Add the sauce
Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Spoon generously over each meat portion.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until meat is fully cooked.
Step 6: Add cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the meatloaf. Return to oven uncovered for 8–10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Finish
Sprinkle dried thyme or parsley on top. Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
- Add corn or peas under the mashed potatoes for extra texture
- Swap ketchup topping for brown gravy
- Make ahead and refrigerate, then bake when needed
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- One-pan comfort meal
- Budget-friendly and filling
- Perfect for meal prep
- Kid- and family-approved
- Creamy, juicy, cheesy, and satisfying