🥩 Classic Meatloaf with Smooth Mashed Potatoes

📝 Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

  • 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 is ideal)
  • ½ lb ground pork (optional, for more flavor & moisture)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¾ cup breadcrumbs
  • ⅓ cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (optional)
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For the Meatloaf Glaze:

  • ⅓ cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)

For the Mashed Potatoes:

  • 2 lbs russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick), room temp
  • ½ to ¾ cup whole milk or heavy cream, warm
  • Salt, to taste
  • White pepper or black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 2 tbsp sour cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess

🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine:
    • Ground beef & pork
    • Onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg
    • Ketchup, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, herbs, parsley
  3. Mix gently with your hands or a fork until just combined. Don’t overmix — it can make the loaf tough.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a parchment-lined baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape into a loaf.
  5. In a small bowl, mix together the glaze ingredients and spread over the top.
  6. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temp hits 160°F (71°C).
  7. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 2: Make the Smooth Mashed Potatoes

  1. While the meatloaf bakes, add potatoes to a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt.
  2. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15–20 minutes until very fork-tender.
  3. Drain well and return to the hot pot for 1 minute to remove excess moisture.
  4. Mash using a potato ricer or hand masher.
  5. Add butter first, then slowly stir in warm milk/cream until you reach your desired consistency.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in sour cream or cream cheese if using.

🥄 Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve a thick slice of meatloaf with a generous scoop of mashed potatoes.
  • Add green beans, peas, or roasted carrots on the side for color and balance.
  • Drizzle with extra glaze or beef gravy if desired.