Description
Craving a hearty, satisfying dinner that’s rich in flavor and easy to prepare? This Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, layering juicy, seasoned beef with buttery mashed potatoes and golden, bubbling cheddar cheese. Topped with crispy bacon and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, it’s a show-stopping main dish perfect for busy nights, weekend feasts, or make-ahead meal prep. Whether you’re browsing for dinner ideas, easy recipes, or just food ideas that everyone will love—this dish is a winner for all seasons.
Ingredients
2 lbs ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup whole milk
2 large eggs
1 small onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
3 large russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
1/2 cup whole milk (warm)
1/4 cup sour cream
4 tbsp unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
1 tbsp chopped parsley or chives (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire, mustard, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until just combined.
3. Press mixture into the baking dish and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
4. Meanwhile, boil chopped potatoes in salted water until tender, then drain.
5. Mash potatoes with butter, warm milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper until smooth.
6. Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the baked meat layer.
7. Top with shredded cheese and crumbled bacon.
8. Bake again for 15–20 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden. Broil for 2–3 minutes if a crispy top is desired.
9. Let the dish rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
10. Garnish with parsley or chives and serve warm.
Notes
Make it ahead by preparing the meat and mashed potato layers the night before, refrigerating, and baking when ready.
Mix different cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a twist on the classic cheddar topping.
Let the dish rest before slicing to ensure clean, firm layers that hold together well.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 140mg