If you’re craving pure comfort in a single bite, look no further than this incredible Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese Recipe. Imagine layers of juicy, flavorful meatloaf, silky mashed potatoes, and a crown of golden gooey cheddar, all baked together to perfection. It’s the kind of meal that’s perfect for bringing everyone to the table, whether for a weeknight family dinner or a cozy Sunday treat. This recipe is easy to prepare, crowd-pleasing, and destined to become your new go-to for hearty, homey goodness.

Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about this Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese Recipe is how easily it comes together with simple ingredients you probably already have. Each component works in harmony to create layers of flavor, creamy comfort, and irresistible color.

Ground beef (85/15 preferred): This blend has just the right balance of richness and tenderness for a savory meatloaf base.
Plain breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs soak up moisture and help hold the meatloaf together without making it dense.
Milk: Adds tenderness and keeps the meatloaf juicy.
Egg: Binds everything perfectly so your loaf slices beautifully.
Ketchup: Lends a tangy sweetness and classic flavor to the meat mixture.
Garlic powder: Infuses the loaf with bold, aromatic flavor without any chopping.
Onion powder: Provides savory depth and rounds out the taste profile.
Salt: Enhances all the other flavors and seasons both meat and potatoes.
Black pepper: A gentle kick to balance the richness of the meat and potatoes.
Mashed potatoes (leftovers or fresh): The ultimate creamy comfort blanket layered atop the meatloaf.
Sour cream: Makes your potatoes extra luscious and tangy.
Butter: Adds richness and helps the potatoes spread easily.
Salt & pepper, to taste: Essential for perfectly seasoned potatoes.
Shredded cheddar cheese: The final gooey, golden topping that makes this dish irresistible.
Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle of green for finishing flair and freshness.

How to Make Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Baking Dish

Start off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and get your 9×9-inch baking dish ready. Grease it well or line it with parchment paper. This makes serving a breeze and guarantees nothing sticks, so you get those perfect, neat layers when slicing.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Layer

In a large bowl, combine your ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Be gentle as you mix—stopping as soon as everything is incorporated helps keep your meatloaf tender. Overmixing can make things dense, and what we want here is juicy, fork-tender perfection!

Step 3: Bake the Meatloaf Layer

Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared dish. Pop it in the oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for the meat to be mostly set and just starting to pull away from the sides—this creates a sturdy base for all the creamy toppings to come.

Step 4: Prepare the Mashed Potato Layer

While the meatloaf is baking, warm your mashed potatoes if you’re using leftovers (they spread more smoothly when warm). Stir in the sour cream and butter until everything is melty and creamy. Taste for seasoning—you want those spuds to be as flavorful as the meat underneath!

Step 5: Layer on the Mashed Potatoes

Carefully spread the fluffy mashed potatoes over the meatloaf base. An offset spatula or the back of a spoon is great for getting those pillowy potatoes all the way to the edges, sealing in the savory goodness beneath.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Return to Bake

Shower the entire pan with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese. Back into the oven it goes for 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is gloriously melted and bubbly with just a hint of golden brown color.

Step 7: Rest, Garnish, and Serve

Once it’s out of the oven, give the Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese Recipe about 5 to 10 minutes to rest. This short wait helps everything set up for perfect slices. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness, then gather everyone around for a truly special meal.

How to Serve Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

A handful of chopped fresh parsley adds pop and brightness to this cozy dish, but feel free to experiment—a shower of thinly sliced green onions, a sprinkle of paprika, or even a drizzle of extra ketchup can also elevate your Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese Recipe.

Side Dishes

This hearty bake goes perfectly with something crisp and fresh on the side: think steamed green beans, a simple tossed salad, buttered peas, or roasted broccoli. The contrast of flavors and textures makes your dinner plate even more inviting.

Creative Ways to Present

Try using a large spoon or spatula to scoop out generous squares, revealing all those gorgeous layers. For an extra-special occasion, let the dish cool a bit and cut it into neat squares, then carefully transfer to plates and garnish with parsley or chives. Individual ramekins work well for a dinner party spin on this home-style classic!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extra Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese Recipe, simply let it cool to room temperature before covering tightly and refrigerating. It will stay delicious and fresh for up to three days, making leftovers a treat!

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. Cool completely, cut into portions, and wrap each piece in foil or plastic wrap before placing in an airtight container or freezer bag. It’ll keep for up to three months—perfect for meal-prepping or those nights when comfort is calling.

Reheating

Reheat single portions in the microwave, or cover your baking dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through. If you like, add a little extra cheese before reheating for even more melty goodness. The flavors are just as fabulous the second (or third!) time around.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat for the meatloaf layer?

Absolutely! While ground beef is classic for this Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese Recipe, you can swap in ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based crumble. Just be aware that leaner meats may be slightly less juicy, so monitor for doneness and seasoning.

Is it okay to use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, instant potatoes are a great shortcut in a pinch! Prepare them according to package directions, then stir in the butter and sour cream as you would with regular mashed potatoes. Just make sure they’re fluffy and well-seasoned for the best flavor.

Can I add vegetables into the meatloaf?

Definitely! Try finely grated carrots, chopped spinach, or tiny bell pepper cubes in the meatloaf mixture. Not only does it sneak in extra veggies, but it also adds color and texture to your Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese Recipe.

What’s the best way to get neat slices?

Letting your bake rest for 5 to 10 minutes after it comes out of the oven is key. Use a sharp knife and a spatula to lift out portions, and don’t forget to wipe your knife between cuts for the cleanest layers.

Can I assemble Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese Recipe ahead of time?

You sure can! Assemble everything through the cheese step, cover tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure the middle is piping hot and the cheese fully melted.

Final Thoughts

Few dishes deliver the soul-satisfying joy of the Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese Recipe. It’s rich, warming, and impossibly creamy, with every layer begging for just one more bite. Gather your loved ones, grab your favorite spatula, and dive into a meal that feels like home—trust me, you’ll want to make this part of your regular rotation!

Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 26 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A comforting and hearty meal combining layers of juicy meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, topped with a generous amount of melted cheddar cheese. This Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese recipe is a family favorite that’s easy to make and sure to please.

Instructions

Preheat oven and prepare baking dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Mix the meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
Press meat into the dish: Spread the meat mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes.
Prepare the mashed potatoes: Warm the mashed potatoes and stir in sour cream and butter. Season with salt and pepper.
Layer the mashed potatoes: Carefully spread the mashed potatoes over the baked meatloaf layer.
Add cheese and bake again: Sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly over the top. Bake an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Rest, garnish, and serve: Let cool for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Slice and enjoy!

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American