Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

This meatloaf with mashed potatoes and cheese is a comforting, layered dinner that brings together savory ground beef and creamy potatoes topped with melted cheddar. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a hearty family meal any night of the week.

A close-up of a layered dish with three main layers: the bottom layer is crumbly brown meat with bits of crispy bacon scattered around, the middle layer is creamy white mashed potatoes, and the top layer is a shiny, golden-brown baked cheese crust sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs. The dish is served on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface, with small pieces of crispy bacon and herbs around the slice. The textures include the smooth mashed potato, the crumbly meat, and the glossy melted cheese on top. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (85/15 preferred)
  • ½ cup plain breadcrumbs
  • ⅓ cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared or leftover)
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • 1 ½ 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 to prevent sticking.
  2. Step 2: In a large bowl, gently mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until just combined—avoid overmixing.
  3. Step 3: Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until it begins to set.
  4. Step 4: While the meatloaf bakes, warm your mashed potatoes in a saucepan or microwave. Stir in the sour cream and butter, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Step 5: Carefully spread the mashed potato mixture over the partially baked meatloaf layer, smoothing it out evenly.
  6. Step 6: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Step 7: Let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes to set before garnishing with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Slice and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

  • Use leftover mashed potatoes to save time and add extra flavor from previous meals.
  • For a twist, mix cooked vegetables like peas or carrots into the mashed potato layer.
  • Try swapping cheddar for mozzarella or a sharp gouda for a different cheesy flavor.
  • If you prefer turkey or chicken, you can substitute ground beef with ground poultry for a lighter version.

Storage

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain texture, or microwave covered for shorter reheating. Avoid freezing to preserve the quality of the mashed potato layer.

How to Serve

A white rectangular dish holds a layered shepherd's pie with one corner scooped out to reveal the inside. The bottom layer is a rich, dark brown ground meat mixed with small bits of onion or seasoning. Above that is a thick layer of creamy, smooth mashed potatoes in light beige. The top layer is golden melted cheese, browned in spots with crispy dark reddish-brown bits of bacon scattered all over. Small green herb pieces are sprinkled across the surface for color. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with a wooden spoon and a striped cloth nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the meatloaf and mashed potato layers in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add extra baking time if baking from chilled.

What can I use instead of sour cream in the mashed potatoes?

You can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor.

Print

Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese Recipe

This comforting Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese recipe layers seasoned ground beef meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and a bubbly cheddar cheese topping. Baked to perfection, it makes a hearty, family-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare and full of classic flavors.

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

Ingredients

Scale

Meatloaf Layer:

  • 1 lb ground beef (85/15 preferred)
  • ½ cup plain breadcrumbs
  • ⅓ cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Mashed Potato Layer:

  • 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared or leftover)
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Topping:

  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal and prevent sticking.
  2. Mix the Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix just until all ingredients are combined to keep the meatloaf tender.
  3. Press Meat into the Dish: Spread the meat mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a flat layer. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, allowing the meat to cook through partially.
  4. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: While the meat is baking, warm the mashed potatoes. Stir in sour cream and butter to make them creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
  5. Layer the Mashed Potatoes: Once the meatloaf layer is partially cooked, carefully spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the meat layer in the baking dish.
  6. Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese has melted and become bubbly and golden.
  7. Rest, Garnish, and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Slice into portions and serve warm for a satisfying meal.

Notes

  • For best results, use freshly prepared mashed potatoes or good quality leftovers.
  • You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • Adjust seasoning in mashed potatoes according to your preference.
  • Using parchment paper makes cleanup easier and helps prevent sticking.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.

Keywords: meatloaf, mashed potatoes, baked meatloaf, cheesy topping, ground beef recipe, comfort food, family dinner

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