This Meatloaf Recipe Will Change Your Dinner Game Forever!

Ever dreamt of a meatloaf so moist and flavorful it’s like getting a warm hug from your grandma? Well, dream no more! This Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese recipe stands out from the rest with its cheesy, creamy top that gets everyone at the table doing a happy food dance. It’s a quirky take on tradition that brings nostalgia and comfort to any dinner table. 🤤

Why Make This Recipe

This meal is an absolute crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First off, it’s family-friendly; everyone from picky eaters to adventurous palates will love it. Plus, it’s an easy cleanup because it all bakes in one dish—who doesn’t love less washing up? And let’s be honest, it’s affordable too, so you can keep your wallet happy while satisfying those hungry tummies. Oh, did I mention it smells divine while baking?

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

For the 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

For the 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)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease that 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Mix the meatloaf. In a large bowl, toss together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until everything’s just combined.
Press meat into the dish. Spread the meat mixture evenly at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes.
Prepare the mashed potatoes. Warm up your mashed potatoes, then mix in the sour cream and butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Layer the mashed potatoes. Carefully spread those creamy mashed potatoes over that delectable meatloaf layer.
Add cheese and bake again. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top and bake for another 10–15 minutes until it’s all melty and bubbly.
Rest, garnish, and serve. Let it cool for 5–10 minutes. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with chopped parsley. Slice, serve, and watch it disappear!

How to Make Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese Recipe (Overview)

Making this dish is as simple as 1-2-3! First, combine everything for the meatloaf into one big bowl. Don’t worry too much about overmixing; we’re not making bread here! Next, bake it until it’s perfectly cooked, then spread those mashed potatoes like icing on a cake. 🥔 Top it off with gooey cheese and bake again. Pro tip: Timing is key—don’t rush the cooling time; it makes slicing a breeze!

How to Serve Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese Recipe

This comforting dish shines on its own, but you can serve it in style! Pair it with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad for a pop of color and crunch. The inviting aroma of the melted cheese and savory meatloaf fills your kitchen, promising a delightful eating experience. Imagine diving in with a fork, the layers melding perfectly together—pure bliss!

How to Store Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese Recipe

Leftovers? Yes, please! This masterpiece keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to stash it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When it’s time to eat, just reheat it in the oven until it’s warm all the way through. Perfect for busy days when you want a homemade meal without much fuss!

Tips to Make Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese Recipe

Don’t skip the breadcrumbs—they help with the texture and keep the meatloaf from being too dense.
If you’re using leftovers for the mashed potatoes, add a splash of milk to fluff them up before layering!
Want a kick? Experiment with spices or add some diced jalapeños into the mixture for extra flavor.

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Try making it vegan by swapping ground beef for lentils or chickpeas and using a flax egg instead of a regular egg. You can even play with flavors by adding in sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the meat mixture. The options are as limitless as your imagination!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work well if you want a leaner option.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Sure can! Assemble it the night before and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.

How do I reheat leftovers?
Pop it back in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual slices for a quick meal.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!