Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese – Comforting & Cheesy

Comforting Cheesy Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

Hey there, friend! If you’re looking for a cozy meal that just wraps you in warmth and comfort, you’ve come to the right place. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for cheesy meatloaf paired with creamy mashed potatoes. It’s a dish that takes me back to my childhood, and trust me, it’s easier to whip up than you think! Plus, who can resist that melted cheese on top? Let’s dive in!

Nutritional Benefits

Meatloaf might not always get the credit it deserves in the health department, but it can be quite nutritious! Ground beef is a fabulous source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12, which are essential for keeping your energy levels high and your immune system working well. And when you add mashed potatoes, you’re packing in some carbs that provide energy for your day. If you want a little extra health boost, consider adding some finely chopped veggies like carrots or bell peppers into the meat mixture. You won’t even notice them, but it’ll be a sneaky way to add fiber!

Yummy Variations to Try

• Swap the Meat: If you’re not a fan of beef, try ground turkey or chicken—they both work great and are lower in fat.
• Make it Veggie: For a vegetarian twist, use lentils or chickpeas blended with your favorite spices and binders instead of meat!
• Mix Up the Cheese: Don’t limit yourself to cheddar! Try mozzarella for that melty goodness or even a mix of your favorites for a cheesy explosion.
• Add Some Heat: If you like a little kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to your meatloaf mixture.
• Different Toppings: Instead of ketchup, think about using barbecue sauce or even homemade salsa to top it off for different flavors!

Cheesy Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• ¾ cup ketchup (plus more for topping)
• 3 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed
• ½ cup milk
• 3 tablespoons butter
• Additional cheese for topping (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Let’s get that oven heated! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: Grab a large bowl and mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Make sure to mix until everything is nicely combined.
3. Shape the Meatloaf: Now, form that mixture into a loaf shape with your hands and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. You’ve got this!
4. Add Cheese: Pour ¾ cup of ketchup on top of the meatloaf, spreading it around evenly. Then, sprinkle that glorious cheddar cheese on top. It’s going to be so cheesy and delicious!
5. Bake the Meatloaf: Pop it into your preheated oven for about 1 hour. You’ll know it’s done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). If you’re feeling a little extra cheesy, add more cheese for the last 10 minutes of baking!
6. Cook the Mashed Potatoes: While the magic happens in the oven, let’s get those potatoes cooking. Add the cubed potatoes to a pot of salted boiling water and cook for about 15-20 minutes until they’re super tender.
7. Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and toss them back into the pot. Stir in the milk and butter, and mash them until they’re smooth and creamy. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve: Once your meatloaf is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Slice it up and serve alongside a generous scoop of mashed potatoes!
9. Garnish: For a little pop of color, sprinkle fresh parsley on the mashed potatoes. It adds a nice touch!
10. Enjoy: And don’t forget, serve it warm with extra ketchup on the side if you’re feeling saucy!

Practical & Valuable Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven for optimal texture!
• If you have extra meat mixture, you can make mini meatloaves in muffin tins—perfect for lunchboxes!
• Want to make it ahead? You can prepare the meatloaf and refrigerate it before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat!

Equipment Needed

Here’s a handy list of what you’ll need:

• Large mixing bowl
• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Pot for boiling potatoes
• Colander for draining
• Potato masher or hand mixer
• Spatula for mixing

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I freeze meatloaf? Absolutely! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
2. Can I use different breadcrumbs? Yes! You can use homemade breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers in a pinch!
3. How do I know when the meatloaf is done? A meat thermometer is your best friend here! It should read 160°F (70°C).
4. Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf? Sure! Chopped bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach can add flavor and nutrition!
5. What sides go well with meatloaf? Besides mashed potatoes, think of steamed veggies, a light salad, or even macaroni and cheese!

Now, it’s your turn! I’d love to hear how your cheesy meatloaf turns out. Did you try any fun variations? Share your experiences or your family’s favorite comfort meals! And hey, don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest for more recipes that warm the heart and fill the belly!