Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic comfort food – A hearty, nostalgic meal that never goes out of style.
Simple ingredients – Made with pantry staples and easy-to-find ingredients.
Family-friendly – A crowd-pleaser that kids and adults will enjoy.
Great for meal prep – Leftovers store well and reheat beautifully.
Customizable – Easily adaptable to different dietary preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Meatloaf:

Ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
Breadcrumbs
Egg
Milk
Onion, finely chopped
Garlic, minced
Ketchup
Worcestershire sauce
Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper
Italian seasoning
Brown sugar (for glaze)

For the Mashed Potatoes:

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
Butter
Heavy cream or milk
Garlic (optional)
Salt and pepper

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the meatloaf mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until just combined.
Shape and bake: Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
Make the glaze: Mix ketchup and brown sugar, then spread it over the meatloaf.
Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Prepare the mashed potatoes: While the meatloaf is baking, peel and chop the potatoes. Boil them in salted water until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
Mash the potatoes: Drain and mash the potatoes, then mix in butter, cream, garlic (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Serve: Slice the meatloaf and serve with a generous portion of mashed potatoes.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Turkey Meatloaf – Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option.
Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Cheesy Mashed Potatoes – Add shredded cheddar or Parmesan for extra flavor.
Spicy Kick – Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the meatloaf.
BBQ Twist – Use BBQ sauce instead of ketchup in the glaze.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Wrap the meatloaf tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Mashed potatoes can also be frozen, though they may need extra cream when reheating.
Reheating: Warm meatloaf slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave in short bursts. Reheat mashed potatoes on the stovetop with a little milk or butter to restore creaminess.

FAQs

How do I keep meatloaf from falling apart?

Use the right ratio of breadcrumbs, egg, and meat. These ingredients act as binders to keep the loaf together.

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

What’s the best type of potato for mashed potatoes?

Russet potatoes yield a fluffier mash, while Yukon Golds create a creamier texture.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well, though it may require a bit more seasoning for extra flavor.

How do I make the meatloaf juicier?

Avoid overmixing the meat and add a splash of milk for moisture.

Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?

Yes! Finely diced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms add flavor and texture.

How do I prevent mashed potatoes from being gluey?

Overmixing or using a blender/food processor can make them gluey. Mash by hand or with a ricer for the best texture.

What can I serve with meatloaf and mashed potatoes?

Try roasted vegetables, green beans, or a fresh salad to balance the meal.

How do I make the mashed potatoes even creamier?

Use heavy cream instead of milk and add extra butter for a richer taste.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just adjust the baking time accordingly and use a larger pan.

Conclusion

Meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes is a timeless, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or as leftovers the next day, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Try different variations to make it your own and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic recipe!