Cheesy Meatloaf with Creamy Mashed Potatoes
🕒 Total Time: 1 hr 30 min
🍽️ Servings: 6-8
💰 Cost: Moderate
This classic comfort dish combines savory meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, and a melty cheddar topping for a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and chopped
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation
- Make the Meatloaf:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme until well combined.
- Shape mixture into a loaf and place in the prepared pan.
- Combine ketchup and brown sugar in a small bowl, then spread over the meatloaf.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- While meatloaf bakes, boil potatoes in salted water until tender (15-20 minutes).
- Drain and return potatoes to the pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Add the Cheese Topping:
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the cooked meatloaf and return to the oven for 5-7 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Slice meatloaf and serve with mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Tips: Pair with a side of oven-roasted potatoes (like the WW recipe you mentioned) or a green salad for a complete meal. For a lighter version, use leaner ground beef or turkey and reduce cheese.
Enjoy this comforting, cheesy classic! 🍽️
