Classic Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

Introduction

When it comes to iconic comfort food, few dishes are as beloved as Classic Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes. This timeless combination is hearty, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. The meatloaf is tender and juicy, baked to perfection with a savory glaze, while the creamy mashed potatoes provide the perfect buttery counterpart. Together, they create a meal that feels like home.

This recipe has been passed through generations in many families, often served on Sunday dinners or special gatherings. Its charm lies not just in its taste but also in its ability to bring comfort, warmth, and nostalgia to the table.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the ultimate comfort classic—simple yet delicious. The meatloaf is flavorful with herbs, spices, and a hint of sweetness from the glaze, while the mashed potatoes are creamy and smooth. It’s a combination that always satisfies and feels like a hug in food form.

I also love how versatile it is—you can make it as traditional or creative as you like by experimenting with different meats, spices, or toppings. And best of all, it makes excellent leftovers, which often taste even better the next day.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Comfort on a plate: Classic, filling, and satisfying.
• Family-friendly: Loved by both kids and adults.
• Balanced meal: Protein-packed meatloaf paired with hearty potatoes.
• Customizable: Adapt to your taste with easy variations.
• Perfect for leftovers: Great reheated or in sandwiches.

This dish is a must-try because it embodies homestyle cooking at its finest—simple ingredients turned into a meal that feels indulgent, comforting, and nostalgic.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per Serving: ~520 kcal
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef (or mix of beef and pork)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and cubed
• 4 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup milk (warm)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven: 375°F (190°C).
2. Make meatloaf mixture: Combine beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire, and seasonings. Mix until just combined.
3. Shape loaf: Transfer to a loaf pan or shape freehand on a lined baking sheet.
4. Prepare glaze: Mix ketchup, sugar, and mustard. Spread half over meatloaf.
5. Bake: Bake meatloaf for 45 minutes. Add remaining glaze and bake another 15 minutes.
6. Boil potatoes: While meatloaf bakes, cook potatoes in salted water until tender (15–20 min).
7. Mash potatoes: Drain, add butter, warm milk, salt, and pepper. Mash until creamy.
8. Serve: Slice meatloaf, plate with mashed potatoes, and drizzle with extra glaze if desired.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat oven and prepare loaf pan.
2. Mix all meatloaf ingredients in a bowl, careful not to overmix.
3. Shape mixture into a loaf and place in pan.
4. Brush top with half the glaze.
5. Bake for 45 minutes, then glaze again and bake until cooked through.
6. While baking, peel and boil potatoes until fork-tender.
7. Mash potatoes with butter and milk until creamy.
8. Slice meatloaf and serve hot with mashed potatoes.

How to Serve

• Serve warm slices of meatloaf alongside creamy mashed potatoes.
• Pair with roasted vegetables, green beans, or a crisp garden salad.
• Add a drizzle of gravy or extra glaze for extra indulgence.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t overmix the meat—keeps the meatloaf tender.
• Use a mix of beef and pork for more flavor.
• Let meatloaf rest 10 minutes before slicing.
• Warm the milk before adding to potatoes for smoother texture.

Variations

1. Cheesy Meatloaf: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella inside.
2. Spicy Meatloaf: Mix chili flakes or hot sauce into the glaze.
3. Turkey Meatloaf: Use ground turkey for a leaner option.
4. Stuffed Meatloaf: Add spinach, mushrooms, or boiled eggs inside.
5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Roast garlic and mash into the potatoes for richer flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers for up to 4 days in airtight container.
• Freezer (Meatloaf): Freeze whole or sliced portions for up to 3 months.
• Freezer (Mashed Potatoes): Freeze for up to 2 months (best reheated with a little extra milk).
• Reheating: Warm in oven at 300°F (150°C) or microwave with splash of broth or milk.

Special Equipment Needed

• Loaf pan (or baking sheet)
• Potato masher (or hand mixer)
• Large pot for boiling potatoes
• Mixing bowls

Conclusion

Classic Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes is the definition of comfort food—warm, hearty, and endlessly satisfying. It’s a dish that never goes out of style, loved across generations. With its tender meatloaf, flavorful glaze, and creamy mashed potatoes, this recipe delivers a meal that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or when you just crave something cozy.

Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a regular feature on your dinner table.