Meatloaf Mashed Potatoes Cheese

This meatloaf with mashed potatoes and cheese is perfect comfort food for both busy weeknights and special gatherings. The recipe layers juicy ground beef with ultra-creamy mashed potatoes and a blanket of melted cheddar cheese. It is simple, hearty, and always gets rave reviews at my dinner table.

When I first made this for my in-laws, everyone cleaned their plates and my daughter asked for seconds. Now it is my go-to for potlucks and cozy Sunday dinners.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Ground beef: rich flavor and tenderness pick 85 percent lean for best texture and juiciness
• Plain breadcrumbs: hold the loaf together and soak up flavor choose fresh for better taste
• Milk: keeps the loaf moist any whole or two percent milk works
• Egg: binds all ingredients together use the freshest you have
• Ketchup: adds a sweet tang and great color look for one without added corn syrup
• Garlic powder: gives a warm, savory note try a fresh clove in place for more kick
• Onion powder: brings depth and aroma fresh grated onion also works
• Salt and black pepper: the basics for bringing out all flavors use freshly cracked pepper if possible
• Mashed potatoes: creamy top layer use leftover potatoes or make fresh for smoother texture
• Sour cream: amps up the creaminess and tang in the potatoes full fat works best
• Butter: gives mashed potatoes a silky finish use real butter for better results
• Shredded cheddar cheese: brings gooey melt and sharp flavor choose aged cheddar and shred it yourself for best melting
• Salt and pepper for the potatoes: taste and season before assembling for balance

How to Make It

Prepare the Meatloaf Base:

In a large bowl combine ground beef plain breadcrumbs milk egg ketchup garlic powder onion powder salt and pepper Use your hands to mix gently just until combined Over mixing can make the loaf tough

Shape and Bake:

On a foil-lined or greased baking dish shape the mixture into a loaf about eight inches long Make a gentle well or indentation down the top center This helps hold the potatoes later Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for twenty minutes

Mash the Potatoes:

If using fresh potatoes peel and boil until tender then drain and mash with butter and sour cream Add salt and pepper to taste Stir until smooth and fluffy If your potatoes were chilled warm them first before mashing for best spreadability

Top the Meatloaf:

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and carefully spread the mashed potatoes over the top and sides Smooth with a spatula or spoon for a thick even layer

Add the Cheese:

Generously cover the mashed potato layer with shredded cheddar cheese pressing lightly Bake for an additional fifteen to twenty minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly and the loaf is cooked through with an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit

Let Rest and Serve:

Rest the meatloaf for at least five to ten minutes before slicing This keeps the layers neat and juicy Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if you like and serve slices warm

The real star for me is the cheddar cheese I love how the sharpness cuts through the creamy potatoes and the savory beef just right Every birthday in our house includes this dish by special request

Flavor Boosters

For extra flavor, mix in sautéed veggies like carrots or spinach to the base. Try a tangy ketchup glaze before adding potatoes, or a dash of country gravy or hot sauce for a southern spin. Fresh chives or crispy onions make festive garnishes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve meatloaf slices with steamed broccoli, a crisp green salad, or roasted carrots for a home style meal. This layered dish is perfect for Sunday suppers, birthdays, or to bring warmth to chilly evenings.

Creative Twists

Swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter loaf, or use non dairy milk and plant based butter for a dairy-free version. Try sweet potato or cauliflower mash in place of classic potatoes for a nutrient boost. Assemble ahead and freeze for a future meal.

This dish is a true family favorite that brings everyone together with every slice. Try the freezer method for make ahead convenience, and enjoy comfort food all year round.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ What type of beef works best for this dish?

An 85/15 ground beef blend offers balanced flavor and moisture, keeping the layers juicy and tender.

→ Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?

Absolutely. Leftover mashed potatoes fit perfectly and help save preparation time while maintaining texture.

→ What cheese is recommended?

Shredded cheddar cheese is ideal, but you may substitute Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different taste.

→ Is it possible to prepare ahead of time?

You can assemble the dish ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready. Add a few minutes to the baking time if chilled.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store cooled portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.