BEST MEATLOAF WITH CHEESE MASH

Imagine slicing into a perfectly browned Meatloaf, revealing a moist and flavorful center, paired with a creamy, cheesy mashed potato side that’s just begging to be devoured. This isn’t your grandma’s dry, bland meatloaf; this is a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to create the ultimate comfort food experience – I promise it will become a family favorite!

Ingredients

Meatloaf Ingredients:

• 2 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend is ideal)
• 1 lb Ground Pork (optional, but adds great flavor)
• 1 cup Bread Crumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
• 1/2 cup Milk
• 1 large Onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 Green Bell Pepper, finely chopped (optional)
• 2 Eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup Ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
• 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper

Cheese Mash Ingredients:

• 3 lbs Russet Potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1/2 cup Milk
• 4 tablespoons Butter
• 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
• 1/2 cup Sour Cream (optional, but adds richness)
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Meatloaf Glaze Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup Ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar
• 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar

Let’s Talk Meatloaf Mastery: Tips and Tricks

Okay, friend, let’s dive into the secrets of crafting a meatloaf that’s anything but boring. We’re aiming for juicy, flavorful perfection here, and I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve to help you get there. Forget dry, crumbly meatloaf – we’re on a mission for moist and delicious!

Choosing the Right Meat:

The key to a great meatloaf starts with the meat itself. I highly recommend using a blend of ground beef and ground pork. The beef provides that classic meatloaf flavor, while the pork adds moisture and richness. Aim for an 80/20 blend of ground beef – that little bit of fat is your friend! If you prefer to stick with just beef, that’s totally fine too. Just make sure it’s not too lean, or your meatloaf might end up dry.

Breadcrumbs: The Binder That Binds

Breadcrumbs are essential for holding the meatloaf together. You can use plain breadcrumbs or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, depending on your preference. If you’re using plain breadcrumbs, feel free to add a little extra dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil to boost the flavor. A little milk helps to moisten the breadcrumbs and keeps the meatloaf tender. Don’t skip this step!

Flavor Powerhouse: Onions, Garlic, and More!

Don’t be shy with the aromatics! Finely chopped onion and minced garlic are a must for adding depth of flavor to your meatloaf. I also like to add finely chopped green bell pepper for a little extra sweetness and texture. Feel free to experiment with other veggies like grated carrots or celery. Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and ketchup add tanginess and umami that take the flavor to the next level. And don’t forget those dried herbs – they make all the difference!

The Glaze: The Crowning Glory

The glaze is what takes your meatloaf from good to *amazing*. A simple glaze of ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar creates a sweet and tangy crust that’s absolutely irresistible. The brown sugar caramelizes in the oven, adding a beautiful shine and intense flavor. Trust me, you don’t want to skip the glaze!

Step-by-Step Instructions: Meatloaf Magic

Getting Started:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a loaf pan (9×5 inch) or a baking sheet. I prefer the loaf pan for a more traditional meatloaf shape, but a baking sheet works great too.

Mixing the Meatloaf:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork (if using), breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, bell pepper (if using), beaten eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Gently mix all the ingredients together with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.

Shaping and Glazing:

1. Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar for the glaze.
3. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Baking to Perfection:

1. Bake the meatloaf for 60-75 minutes, or until it is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
2. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful meatloaf.

Crafting the Cheesy Dream Mash

While the meatloaf is baking, let’s whip up the cheesy mashed potatoes! This is where things get seriously delicious. Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting, these mashed potatoes are the perfect complement to the meatloaf.

Prepping the Potatoes:

1. Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water.
2. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Mashing and Mixing:

1. Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot.
2. Add the milk, butter, cheddar cheese, and sour cream (if using).
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving Suggestions and Delicious Pairings

Your Meatloaf with Cheese Mash is ready to be served! But let’s think about taking this meal to the next level. Here are some ideas for sides and serving suggestions that will make this a truly memorable dinner.

Perfect Side Dishes:

• Green Beans: A simple side of steamed or roasted green beans adds a touch of freshness and color to the plate.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These are surprisingly delicious when roasted with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory, glazed carrots are a classic pairing with meatloaf.
• A simple side salad: Sometimes all you need is a fresh salad!

Beyond the Plate: More Potato Perfection

If you are a potato lover like myself, consider trying similar recipes! Why not try a delightful Potatoes Au Gratin. Or how about a Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes? If you are looking for something a little more simple, try the Crock Pot Potato Soup or even a Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup.

Storage and Reheating: Meatloaf for Days

Lucky you, meatloaf is fantastic leftover! Here’s how to store and reheat it to maintain that delicious flavor and texture.

Storing Leftovers:

Allow the meatloaf to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating Like a Pro:

There are a few ways to reheat meatloaf, depending on your preference. You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, checking frequently to prevent it from drying out. For the best results, add a little bit of beef broth or gravy to the meatloaf before reheating to keep it moist.

Variations and Twists: Make It Your Own

This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to get creative and customize it to your liking! Here are a few ideas to get you started.

Spice It Up:

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture for a little heat. You can also use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground pork.

Cheese Lover’s Dream:

Add shredded mozzarella cheese or provolone cheese to the meatloaf mixture for a cheesy surprise. You can also top the meatloaf with cheese during the last 15 minutes of baking.

Veggie Packed:

Add grated zucchini, carrots, or spinach to the meatloaf mixture for extra nutrients and flavor.

Different Glazes:

Experiment with different glazes like BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or a balsamic glaze.

Conclusion

There you have it – the ultimate Meatloaf recipe with a cheesy mashed potato twist! I hope you enjoy making and devouring this comforting and delicious meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how it turns out!

Best Meatloaf with Cheese Mash

This recipe delivers a moist and flavorful meatloaf paired with creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for a family dinner. The meatloaf features a delicious glaze, and the mashed potatoes are rich and decadent.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Main Course

Calories: 650

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 lbs Ground Beef 80/20 blend
• 1 lb Ground Pork optional
• 1 cup Bread Crumbs
• 1/2 cup Milk
• 1 large Onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 Green Bell Pepper, finely chopped optional
• 2 Eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup Ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
• 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
• 3 lbs Russet Potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1/2 cup Milk for mash
• 4 tablespoons Butter
• 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
• 1/2 cup Sour Cream optional
• Salt and Pepper to taste for mash
• 1/2 cup Ketchup for glaze
• 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar
• 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar

Equipment

• Large bowl
• Loaf pan (9×5 inch) or baking sheet
• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Large pot
• Potato masher or electric mixer
• Meat thermometer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a loaf pan (9×5 inch) or a baking sheet.
3. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork (if using), breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, bell pepper (if using), beaten eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Gently mix all the ingredients together with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar for the glaze.
7. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
8. Bake the meatloaf for 60-75 minutes, or until it is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
9. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
10. Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water.
11. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
12. Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot.
13. Add the milk, butter, cheddar cheese, and sour cream (if using).
14. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
15. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
16. Serve the meatloaf with the cheesy mashed potatoes.

Notes

For a spicier meatloaf, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef or pork. Experiment with different glazes like BBQ sauce or honey mustard. Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave. Add beef broth or gravy when reheating to keep it moist.