Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter.
2. Prepare Meatloaf:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until just combined.
   • Transfer to loaf pan, press evenly, and spread 2 tbsp ketchup on top.
3. Bake Meatloaf:
   • Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let rest for 10 minutes.
4. Prepare Mashed Potatoes:
   • While meatloaf bakes, place potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water. Boil for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
   • Drain and return to pot. Add milk, butter, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
5. Assemble and Bake:
   • Spread mashed potatoes over cooked meatloaf. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
   • Return to oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve:
   • Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cook Notes:

• Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for best flavor and moisture.
• Cheese: For extra cheesy flavor, combine cheddar and mozzarella.
• Mashed Potatoes: Drain thoroughly to avoid watery mashed potatoes.

Variations:

• BBQ Meatloaf: Replace ketchup with BBQ sauce for smoky flavor.
• Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf: Add cooked bacon and green onions to mashed potatoes.
• Herb and Garlic Meatloaf: Add dried rosemary and garlic powder to meat mixture.

Serving Suggestions:

• Green Beans: Serve with steamed green beans or roasted asparagus.
• Dinner Rolls: Pair with buttery dinner rolls or garlic bread.
• Side Salad: A garden salad with light vinaigrette balances the richness.

FAQs:

• Make Ahead: Assemble meatloaf and mashed potatoes, refrigerate for up to 1 day before baking. Add 5-10 minutes to baking time.
• Store Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven or microwave.
• Freeze Meatloaf: Freeze before or after baking for up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator overnight before baking or reheating.

Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese is a comforting and hearty dish that brings all the flavors of a classic family dinner to your table. With tender meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, and gooey melted cheese, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience! 🍽️😊

Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out!