Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes is a comforting, hearty classic that brings together juicy, flavorful meatloaf with creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. This meal is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or a cozy homemade treat. With a rich glaze on top and a side of fluffy mashed potatoes, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Comfort Food: A nostalgic dish that never goes out of style.
Juicy and Flavorful: A perfectly seasoned meatloaf with a tangy glaze.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Buttery and smooth, the perfect side dish.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for meal prep and reheats well.
Customizable: Adjust the seasonings or add extra toppings to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Meatloaf:

2 lbs (900g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
½ cup milk
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme

For the Glaze:

½ cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Mashed Potatoes:

2 lbs (900g) russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
½ cup whole milk or heavy cream
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

Directions

1. Prepare the Meatloaf

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes to soften.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and oregano. Mix until just combined (do not overmix).
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the loaf pan or on the baking sheet.

2. Make the Glaze and Bake

In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder.
Spread half of the glaze over the meatloaf.
Bake for 45 minutes, then spread the remaining glaze on top and bake for another 15 minutes (total 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C)).
Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

3. Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the meatloaf bakes, place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water.
Add salt and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
Drain the potatoes and return to the pot.
Add butter, milk, salt, pepper, and sour cream (if using). Mash until smooth and creamy.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Slice the meatloaf and serve with a generous portion of mashed potatoes.
Garnish with fresh parsley (optional).
Enjoy with a side of green beans, roasted vegetables, or gravy if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Resting Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

Cheesy Meatloaf: Add ½ cup shredded cheddar inside the meat mixture.
Spicy Glaze: Add hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the glaze for a kick.
Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf: Wrap the loaf with bacon before baking.
Herb-Infused Mashed Potatoes: Add garlic powder or chives for extra flavor.
Vegetable Mix-In: Add shredded carrots or bell peppers to the meat mixture.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration: Store meatloaf and mashed potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze meatloaf slices in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm meatloaf in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes. Reheat mashed potatoes with a splash of milk in the microwave or on the stovetop.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! Try a mix of beef, pork, turkey, or even chicken.

How do I keep my meatloaf from drying out?

Use enough moisture (milk, eggs, breadcrumbs) and avoid overcooking.

What’s the best way to mash potatoes smoothly?

Use a potato masher or a hand mixer—avoid using a blender as it can make them gluey.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the meatloaf mixture and refrigerate overnight before baking.

What side dishes go well with meatloaf and mashed potatoes?

Green beans, roasted carrots, garlic bread, or a fresh salad pair well.

How do I make a gravy to go with this?

Melt 2 tablespoons butter, whisk in 2 tablespoons flour, and slowly add 1 cup beef broth, stirring until thickened.

Can I make this without breadcrumbs?

Yes! Substitute with crushed crackers, oats, or almond flour for a gluten-free option.

How do I prevent my meatloaf from falling apart?

Ensure proper binding with eggs and breadcrumbs, and let it rest before slicing.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

You can, but homemade mashed potatoes give a fresher, richer taste.

Can I cook this meatloaf in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, then broil for a crispy top.

Conclusion

Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food, delivering rich flavors and satisfying textures. With a juicy, tender meatloaf and creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is a timeless favorite. Whether for a family dinner or meal prep, it’s a must-try classic that everyone will love. Try it today and enjoy a homemade meal packed with warmth and flavor!