Introduction
Meatloaf with mashed potatoes and cheese is a classic comfort food combination that brings together savory flavors in the best way possible.
The rich, hearty meatloaf pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes, topped with melty cheddar cheese for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or feeding a crowd, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
Olive oil for sautéing
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 large onion, finely chopped
1.5 lbs ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 cup tomato sauce
1 egg
1/4 cup BBQ sauce
1/2 cup frozen peas
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes:
4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
4 tbsp butter
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
To start, heat a bit of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking them until soft and fragrant.
about 3-4 minutes. This will help bring out the natural sweetness of the onions and enhance the flavors of the meatloaf. Set aside to cool.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, tomato sauce, egg, BBQ sauce, and the sautéed garlic and onion mixture.
Mix well until everything is evenly distributed. Add the frozen peas and fresh parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste. The peas add a nice texture and subtle sweetness to the meatloaf.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the meat mixture into a greased loaf pan, pressing it down to form an even shape.
Bake the meatloaf for about 45-50 minutes or until fully cooked and the top is nicely browned.
While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the mashed potatoes. Place the peeled and chopped potatoes into a large pot of salted water.
Bring it to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot.
Add the butter and heavy cream to the cooked potatoes, mashing them until smooth and creamy.
Stir in the grated cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt and blend into the potatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The cheese adds an extra layer of flavor that perfectly complements the meatloaf.
Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
This helps the juices redistribute and ensures the meatloaf stays moist. Serve the meatloaf slices with a generous scoop of the creamy mashed potatoes on the side.
Garnish the dish with extra fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness of this classic meal. The combination of flavors and textures will have everyone coming back for seconds.
How to Make
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet, then sauté the garlic and onions until they become soft and fragrant. This step adds depth to the meatloaf’s flavor profile.
The garlic should be minced finely so it mixes evenly throughout the meatloaf, and the onions should be chopped small enough to blend seamlessly into the meat mixture. Set aside to cool after cooking.
Once the sautéed ingredients have cooled, combine them with the ground beef, breadcrumbs.
tomato sauce, BBQ sauce, egg, frozen peas, and parsley in a large mixing bowl. The frozen peas offer a burst of color and a subtle crunch that complements the tender beef.
Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan, making sure it’s spread evenly for uniform cooking.
Bake the meatloaf at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes, until it’s cooked through. This high heat ensures a golden-brown crust on the outside, while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
For the mashed potatoes, cook them in boiling salted water until they’re soft, then mash them with butter and heavy cream.
The cream gives the mashed potatoes their smooth, velvety texture, and the butter adds richness.
Adding cheese to the potatoes elevates them further, making them a flavorful pairing for the savory meatloaf.
Once the mashed potatoes are ready, serve them alongside the meatloaf slices. The cheddar cheese should be fully melted into the potatoes, offering a gooey, cheesy bite that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Allow the meatloaf to rest after baking before slicing. This ensures the juices redistribute and prevents the meatloaf from falling apart.
This resting time also allows you to prepare any extra garnishes, like additional parsley or a drizzle of BBQ sauce.
The final presentation should include a generous serving of mashed potatoes, topped with a slice of moist meatloaf.
garnished with fresh parsley or cheese if desired. This meal is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Variations
For a twist on this classic recipe, try adding different vegetables to the meatloaf. Carrots, bell peppers, or even spinach can be finely chopped and added to the mixture for an extra dose of nutrition and flavor.
These vegetables also contribute to a burst of color, making the dish even more visually appetizing.
If you prefer a different protein, you can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb.
Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to complement the new protein. Turkey and chicken, for instance, would pair well with a bit of sage or thyme.
For a low-carb version of mashed potatoes, try using cauliflower instead of regular potatoes. Steam the cauliflower until tender, then mash it with butter, cream, and cheese. This provides a similar creamy texture while keeping the dish lighter.
To make the meatloaf spicier, incorporate chili flakes, jalapeños, or hot sauce into the mixture. For a more savory version, swap the BBQ sauce for a tangy mustard sauce or Worcestershire sauce for a deeper flavor.
If you’re a fan of different cheeses, feel free to experiment. Gouda, mozzarella, or even a bit of blue cheese can be added to the mashed potatoes.
for a unique twist on the traditional cheddar flavor. Mixing cheeses also creates a more complex taste.
For a more indulgent side dish, consider topping the mashed potatoes with crispy bacon bits or sautéed onions. These add texture and a salty contrast to the creamy potatoes. You can also add a drizzle of sour cream for added richness.
Lastly, if you’re pressed for time, consider using store-bought mashed potatoes or meatloaf mix. While homemade versions offer more flavor, these shortcuts can still provide a satisfying meal with less effort.
Tips
To ensure your meatloaf stays moist, avoid overmixing the ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture. Stir everything gently until combined for a light and airy meatloaf.
For an extra burst of flavor, brush the top of the meatloaf with BBQ sauce before baking. This creates a caramelized glaze that enhances the overall taste of the meatloaf.
If you’re not a fan of peas, feel free to leave them out or substitute them with other vegetables, like corn or green beans.
The key is to keep the texture balanced while adding flavors that complement the beef.
When making mashed potatoes, ensure they are cooked until fork-tender but not mushy. If overcooked.
they can become waterlogged and lose their creamy consistency. Drain the potatoes well to avoid excess moisture.
For a richer flavor, use a combination of half-and-half and butter in the mashed potatoes. This provides a smooth, velvety texture without being too heavy.
If you want to get ahead, prepare the mashed potatoes a day before and refrigerate them. Reheat with a bit of extra cream or butter for an easy side dish when it’s time to serve.
Finally, let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, preventing the meatloaf from becoming dry.
Conclusion
Meatloaf with mashed potatoes and cheese is the perfect comfort food combination, offering hearty, savory flavors that please the palate.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal.
Whether you stick with the classic recipe or add your own twist, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Enjoy the delicious balance of tender meatloaf and creamy mashed potatoes with melted cheese in every bite.