Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheddar Topping is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for family dinners.
The tender meatloaf, made from ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, is baked to perfection and topped with a generous layer of melted cheddar cheese.
Paired with creamy mashed potatoes, this dish offers a perfect balance of savory flavors and creamy textures.
The addition of fresh parsley on top adds a burst of color and freshness.
This classic meal is not only delicious but also filling, making it an ideal choice for cozy, home-cooked dinners.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
Amount of Ingredients
Ground beef with 85% lean fat content, 2 pounds.
1 cup of breadcrumbs
1/2 cup of milk
Chopped onion: 1 medium.
Chopped garlic: 2 cloves
2 big eggs
1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
Use half a teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of pepper.
1 teaspoon of dried thyme
Half a cup of ketchup
Two tablespoons of brown sugar.
To make the mashed potatoes:
Amount of Ingredients
2 pounds of peeled and chopped potatoes.
1/2 cup of milk
Butter without salt, 1/4 cup.
Add salt and pepper according to your preference.
Regarding the topping:
Amount of Ingredients
1 1/2 cups of grated cheddar cheese
Chopped fresh parsley to decorate.
Preparation
Heat the oven: Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Put oil in a baking dish that measures 9 by 13 inches.
Soak bread in milk: Mix breadcrumbs and milk in a small bowl. Leave it in the liquid for 5 minutes.
Prepare the meatloaf mixture: In a big bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs soaked in water, onion, garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Stir thoroughly.
Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape in the baking dish.
Prepare the topping by mixing ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl. Put on top of the meatloaf.
Cook in the oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the inside reaches a temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Prepare mashed potatoes: While the meatloaf is cooking, put diced potatoes in a big pot and cover them with cold water.
Sprinkle a little salt and heat until boiling. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until soft. Drain the liquid and put it back in the pot.
Put milk and butter.
Crush until soft and smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Put together and bake: After the meatloaf is finished baking, cover the top with mashed potatoes.
Put some grated cheddar cheese on top.
Cook under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let the meatloaf sit for 10 minutes before cutting and serving. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Here are some variations and tips to enhance your Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheddar Topping:
Variations:
Protein Swap: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of beef and pork for a different flavor profile.
Vegetable Add-ins: Add finely chopped vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the meatloaf for extra nutrition and flavor.
Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even blue cheese for a different taste.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats in place of regular breadcrumbs to make the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
Mashed Potato Variations: Add roasted garlic, sour cream, or cream cheese to your mashed potatoes for added richness and flavor.
Topping Alternatives: For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers mixed with butter over the cheddar before baking.
Tips:
Keep Meatloaf Moist: Avoid over-mixing the meat to ensure the meatloaf stays tender and doesn’t become dense.
Rest Before Slicing: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and make slicing easier.
Season to Taste: Taste your mashed potatoes before serving to adjust salt, pepper, or add herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
Double the Recipe: Meatloaf freezes well. Make extra and freeze individual portions for quick and easy meals later.
Ketchup Glaze Upgrade: Mix ketchup with a bit of mustard or hot sauce for a tangy or spicy twist on the traditional glaze.
Enjoy this tasty meatloaf with mashed potatoes and cheese!