This Cheesy Meatloaf and Mashed Potato Bake is a comforting and hearty dish that combines savory meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, all topped with melted cheese. The meatloaf, typically made from ground meat (beef, pork, or a mixture), breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings, is baked until cooked through. It’s then often topped with a simple tomato-based sauce or ketchup before being layered over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes and finished with a generous layer of melted cheese. This bake transforms two classic comfort foods into a convenient and satisfying one-pan meal. The cheesy topping adds an extra layer of flavor and gooeyness, making it a family-friendly dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (or a mixture of beef and pork)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup ketchup or tomato sauce, plus more for topping
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs potatoes (such as Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and quartered
- 1/2 cup milk or cream (or more, to desired consistency)
- 2-4 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Topping:
- 1-2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, or a blend
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley or dried herbs
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling potatoes
- Potato masher or ricer
- Small bowl for meatloaf topping
Instructions:
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold, salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or ricer until smooth. Stir in the milk or cream, butter, salt, and pepper until the mashed potatoes are creamy and reach your desired consistency. Set aside.
- Make the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or meat mixture), breadcrumbs, beaten egg, milk, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, 1/4 cup ketchup or tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce (if using), Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Gently mix all the ingredients together with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Shape the meatloaf mixture into several individual loaves or one large loaf to fit in your baking dish.
- Assemble the Bake: Spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly in the bottom of the 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the shaped meatloaf (individual or one large) over the bed of mashed potatoes.
- Top the Meatloaf: Spread a thin layer of ketchup or tomato sauce over the top of the meatloaf(ves).
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, or cheese blend generously over the meatloaf and the edges of the mashed potatoes.
- Bake the Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 160°F/71°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The mashed potatoes will also be heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or dried herbs, if desired. Serve hot.
Enjoy this comforting and satisfying Cheesy Meatloaf and Mashed Potato Bake!