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In the realm of comfort food, few dishes evoke the same warmth and nostalgia as a classic meatloaf paired with creamy mashed potatoes. This iconic combination has graced dining tables across America for generations, serving as a reliable staple that brings families together. The allure of meatloaf lies not only in its heartiness but also in its ability to evoke memories of home-cooked meals, often enjoyed on rainy nights or festive family gatherings. The blend of flavors and textures—from the savory, tender meatloaf to the velvety mashed potatoes—creates a satisfying experience that comforts the soul.

Classic Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Discover the ultimate comfort food with a classic meatloaf paired with creamy mashed potatoes. This hearty dish, rich in history, brings families together and evokes memories of home-cooked meals. Learn how to make a flavorful meatloaf using quality ingredients and enjoy velvety mashed potatoes that complement it perfectly. This timeless meal is not just satisfying; it’s about sharing warmth and love with those you cherish. Perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf:

1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably plain or Italian-seasoned)

1 large onion, finely chopped

1 cup milk

2 large eggs

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried oregano

½ cup ketchup (plus additional for topping)

For the Mashed Potatoes:

2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and diced

½ cup butter, at room temperature

½ cup milk (or cream for extra richness)

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: 2-3 cloves of roasted garlic for added flavor

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, eggs, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, and ½ cup ketchup. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until all ingredients are well combined, being careful not to overmix.

      Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan or form into a free-standing loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Smooth the top and brush additional ketchup on top for a nice glaze.

        Bake the Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil.

          Cook the Potatoes: While the meatloaf is baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.

            Mash the Potatoes: Using a potato masher, mash the potatoes until smooth. Add the softened butter and milk (or cream), and mix until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re using roasted garlic, add it now for an extra depth of flavor.

              Finish and Serve: Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve generous slices of the meatloaf with a side of creamy mashed potatoes, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 1 hr 30 min | 6 servings