Cheesy Meatloaf Over Mashed Potatoes: Comfort Food at Its Best

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make it tough.
3. Gently fold in the shredded cheese, making sure it’s evenly distributed through the meat mixture.
4. Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf shape. Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top for a glossy finish.
5. Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 2: Make the Mashed Potatoes

1. While the meatloaf is baking, peel and chop the potatoes into evenly sized chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with water.
2. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or hand mixer until smooth.
4. Add the butter and milk, then continue mashing until the potatoes are creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If you want cheesy mashed potatoes, stir in half of the shredded cheese until it’s fully melted and incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

1. Spoon a generous amount of mashed potatoes onto each plate.
2. Slice the meatloaf and place it on top of the mashed potatoes.
3. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Best Cheesy Meatloaf Over Mashed Potatoes

• Use Ground Meat Combinations: If you prefer a more flavorful meatloaf, try using a combination of ground beef and pork. The pork adds moisture and richness to the meatloaf, while beef provides structure and flavor.
• Add More Cheese: For an extra cheesy flavor, try mixing shredded cheese into the mashed potatoes as well. It’s a cheesy combo that will make your taste buds sing.
• Customize Your Meatloaf: Feel free to get creative with the meatloaf by adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to tailor the flavors to your liking.
• Make It Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf and mashed potatoes in advance. Simply refrigerate the meatloaf (uncooked or cooked) and the mashed potatoes, then bake and reheat when ready to serve.

Variations and Substitutions

• Meatloaf Variations: If you’re looking to make a healthier version, use lean ground turkey or chicken in place of beef. You can also try adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture for extra depth of flavor.
• Mashed Potato Variations: For a healthier twist, use cauliflower in place of potatoes for a low-carb version of mashed “potatoes.” You can also swap the butter and cream for olive oil and vegetable broth for a lighter option.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses in the meatloaf and mashed potatoes. Sharp cheddar, Parmesan, or even a smoky Gouda can bring new flavors to this dish.

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them separately to maintain their freshness:

• Meatloaf: Wrap the leftover meatloaf tightly in foil or plastic wrap, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze cooked meatloaf for up to 3 months.
• Mashed Potatoes: Store any leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream and heat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until smooth and creamy again.