Cheesy Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Introduction

This Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for any weeknight dinner. Combining savory meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and a cheesy topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (85/15 preferred)
• 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared or leftover)
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid a dense texture.
3. Step 3: Spread the meat mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until it begins to set.
4. Step 4: While the meatloaf is baking, warm the mashed potatoes. Stir in the sour cream and butter, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Step 5: Carefully spread the mashed potatoes over the baked meatloaf layer, creating an even layer.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes. Return to the oven and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Step 7: Let the dish cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, then slice and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, mix finely chopped onions or bell peppers into the meatloaf mixture before baking.
• If you prefer a saucier topping, add a layer of tomato sauce or ketchup over the meat before spreading the mashed potatoes.
• Use sweet potatoes instead of regular mashed potatoes for a twist with a hint of sweetness.
• Leftover meatloaf and mashed potatoes work perfectly in this recipe, making it a great way to use up dinner scraps.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to keep the cheese melty and the layers intact. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but the texture may be less crisp on top.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative. Keep in mind that they are leaner, so the meatloaf may be less moist. Adding a bit of olive oil or an extra egg can help retain moisture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Replace the plain breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets.

Cheesy Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 72 reviews

This hearty Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese recipe combines a flavorful ground beef meatloaf base topped with creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheddar cheese. It’s a comforting, all-in-one dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, featuring layers of savory meat, rich mashed potatoes, and gooey cheesy goodness.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meatloaf Layer:

• 1 lb ground beef (85/15 preferred)
• 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Mashed Potato Layer:

• 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared or leftover)
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt & pepper, to taste

Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the meatloaf layer.
2. Mix the Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid a dense meatloaf.
3. Press Meat into Dish: Spread the meatloaf mixture evenly in the bottom of a greased or parchment-lined 9×9-inch baking dish. Place it in the oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes to partially cook the meat layer.
4. Prepare Mashed Potatoes: Meanwhile, warm the mashed potatoes in a saucepan or microwave. Stir in sour cream and butter until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
5. Layer the Mashed Potatoes: Carefully spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the baked meatloaf layer in the dish.
6. Add Cheese and Bake Again: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potato layer. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
7. Rest, Garnish, and Serve: Remove from oven and let the dish cool for 5–10 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Slice into squares and serve warm for a comforting meal.

Notes

• For extra flavor, you can add chopped onions or bell peppers to the meat mixture.
• Use leftover mashed potatoes to save time or prepare fresh mashed potatoes with cream and butter for best texture.
• If you prefer, swap cheddar cheese with mozzarella or a cheese blend for a different cheesy flavor.
• This dish can be prepared a day ahead; just bake as instructed and refrigerate, then reheat covered in the oven before serving.
• Make sure not to overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.

Keywords: Meatloaf, Mashed Potatoes, Cheddar Cheese, Comfort Food, Baked Meatloaf, Layered Meatloaf