This meatloaf with mashed potatoes and cheese is one of those meals I always come back to when I want something comforting, filling, and familiar. I love how the savory meatloaf pairs with creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheese to create a dish that feels like a warm family dinner, no matter when I make it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it brings together classic flavors in a simple and reliable way. I enjoy how easy it is to prepare while still feeling special enough for a sit-down meal. I also appreciate how flexible it is, since I can adjust the seasonings, cheese, or even the type of meat depending on what I have on hand. Most of all, I love how it delivers comfort without being complicated.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup ketchup
2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) so it is ready when the meatloaf is shaped. In a large bowl, I combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, diced onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the ketchup. I mix everything gently until just combined, making sure not to overwork the meat.
I transfer the mixture into a loaf pan and smooth the top. I spread the remaining ketchup evenly over the surface to create a flavorful glaze. I bake the meatloaf for about 1 hour, until it is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
While the meatloaf is baking, I boil the potatoes in salted water for about 15–20 minutes, until they are fork-tender. I drain them well, then mash them until smooth. I stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, season with salt and pepper, and mix until creamy.
Once the meatloaf is done, I let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. I serve it warm with a generous portion of cheesy mashed potatoes.
Servings And Timing
I usually get about 4 to 6 servings from this recipe, depending on portion size. Preparation takes around 15 minutes, and cooking takes about 60 minutes, making the total time approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes swap ground beef for ground turkey when I want a lighter option. I also enjoy using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor. For a different cheese profile, I replace cheddar with mozzarella or a blend of cheeses. Adding herbs like thyme or parsley can also change the flavor nicely.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. When reheating, I prefer using the oven at a low temperature to keep the meatloaf moist, but the microwave works well for quick meals. If I freeze it, I wrap individual slices tightly and thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
I often prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. When I am ready to cook, I simply bake it as directed.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
I check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Letting it rest before slicing also helps keep it juicy.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
I replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers, and it works just as well.
What can I do with leftovers?
I like using leftover meatloaf for sandwiches, or crumbling it into pasta or rice dishes for a quick meal.
Can I freeze meatloaf with mashed potatoes?
I freeze the meatloaf separately from the potatoes for best texture. Both reheat well when stored properly.
Conclusion
This meatloaf with mashed potatoes and cheese is a recipe I rely on whenever I want a comforting, satisfying meal. I enjoy how it brings together simple ingredients to create something hearty and memorable, making it perfect for family dinners or relaxed evenings at home.
This meatloaf with mashed potatoes and cheese combines savory, tender meatloaf with creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes for a comforting and filling meal that feels like a classic family dinner.
Total Time:1 hour 15 minutes
Yield:4 to 6 servings
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup ketchup
2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the ketchup. Mix until just combined.
Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan and smooth the top. Spread remaining ketchup on top.
Bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
While baking, boil the potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender.
Drain the potatoes, then mash them until smooth. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with the cheesy mashed potatoes.
Notes
Do not overmix the meat to keep the meatloaf tender.
Use sweet potatoes for a naturally sweet variation of the mash.
Swap cheddar for mozzarella or a cheese blend for different flavors.
Add herbs like thyme or parsley to enhance the flavor profile.
Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to retain juices.
