Classic meatloaf with mashed potatoes is a hearty comfort food that warms your dinner table. This easy recipe turns traditional meatloaf into a casserole by topping it with mashed potatoes. You can use 80% lean ground beef or a mix of beef, pork, and veal. Panko breadcrumbs help bind the meat, and you can use pre-made mashed potatoes for convenience.
Key Takeaways
- Classic homestyle meatloaf with mashed potatoes is a comforting family dinner
- Recipe uses 80% lean ground beef or meatloaf mix for best texture
- Panko breadcrumbs provide optimal binding and structure
- Mashed potatoes are used to “frost” the meatloaf for a unique presentation
- Easy to prepare with simple, wholesome ingredients
Introduction to Homestyle Meatloaf and Potatoes
Homestyle meatloaf and mashed potatoes are true comfort food classics in American cuisine. This dish pairs tender, hearty homemade meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes. It’s like a shepherd’s pie but with meatloaf on top. This mix satisfies meatloaf lovers and newcomers alike.
Meatloaf and mashed potatoes are a favorite in many homes. In fact, 55% of customers prefer it over other menu items. Restaurants sell over 200 servings of meatloaf per week. And 78% of households include it in their weekly meal plan.
The dish’s lasting appeal lies in its flavors and textures. The meatloaf is hearty, while the mashed potatoes are creamy. Together, they offer a comforting balance that warms the soul.
Whether you’re a meatloaf fan or new to it, this recipe will win your heart. Prepare to enjoy the comforting flavors and textures of homestyle meatloaf and mashed potatoes. It’s a timeless dish that brings people together and satisfies the senses.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Meatloaf
Making the perfect meatloaf starts with choosing the right ingredients. You need the best ground beef, binding agents, and seasonings. Each one is key to a moist, tasty, and satisfying dish.
Ground Beef Options and Meat Selection
The heart of a great meatloaf is the meat. The recipe suggests mixing ground beef, pork, and veal. This mix gives the meatloaf its tenderness, juiciness, and flavor. Or, you can use 2 pounds of this mix instead of separate cuts.
For the ground beef, look for an 80/20 or 85/15 lean-to-fat ratio. This keeps the meatloaf moist and tender while it bakes.
Breadcrumbs and Binding Components
Binding agents are crucial for a meatloaf that holds together. The recipe uses 16 crushed saltine crackers for this. They add a light, crispy texture. You can also use 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs as a substitute.
The recipe also includes 1/4 cup of milk to keep the meatloaf moist. You can swap the milk with 1/2 cup of plain yogurt if you prefer.
Seasonings and Aromatics
The seasonings and aromatics make a meatloaf truly special. The recipe adds salt, pepper, and parsley for flavor. It also includes chopped mushrooms, onions, shallots, bell peppers, and garlic for extra taste.
To finish, the meatloaf is glazed with a mix of ketchup, maple syrup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. This glaze caramelizes beautifully as it bakes.
Making the Perfect Mashed Potatoes
Homemade mashed potatoes are a must with classic meatloaf. They offer a creamy, comforting side dish. Using cream cheese can make them even better.
This creamy mashed potatoes recipe serves 6 people. It uses 3 pounds of red potatoes. It’s quick, taking only 20 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Red Potatoes | 3 pounds |
| Cream Cheese | 4 ounces |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Butter | 4 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
To make creamy mashed potatoes, boil the potatoes until tender. Then mash them with cream cheese, milk, butter, salt, and pepper. This makes a rich, potato recipe that’s perfect with meatloaf.
“Mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food – creamy, rich, and simply irresistible.”
For an even creamier texture, use a food mill. Pass the cooked potatoes through the smallest disk, especially if they’re peeled. This helps achieve a smooth, lump-free consistency.
Follow these simple steps for a potato recipe that will complement your classic meatloaf. It creates a harmonious, satisfying homestyle meal.
Step-by-Step Meatloaf Preparation
Making the perfect meatloaf is an art that needs simple ingredients and careful steps. The secret to a tasty meatloaf recipe is in the detailed meatloaf preparation process. Let’s explore how to make a flavorful and satisfying meatloaf glaze step by step.
Mixing and Forming the Meatloaf
Begin by mixing breadcrumbs and milk in a big bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. Then, add ground beef, salt, pepper, chopped parsley, and beaten eggs.
Use your hands to mix everything gently. Make sure to mix well but avoid overmixing. Shape the mix into a tight loaf and put it in a greased loaf pan.
Creating the Perfect Glaze
In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of ketchup and 1/4 cup of brown sugar. This makes a delicious glaze. Brush this glaze all over the meatloaf, making sure it’s evenly coated.
Proper Baking Techniques
Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Put the meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 1 hour. It should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve it with your favorite sides.
By following these steps, you’ll make a classic meatloaf that everyone will love. Try different glazes or add-ins to make your meatloaf recipe unique.
Classic Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes
Enjoy the ultimate comfort food with this classic meatloaf and mashed potatoes casserole. It combines savory meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes. This dish is perfect for any occasion.
The meatloaf layer uses ground beef and pork, panko breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, and seasonings. It’s topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. The glaze is made from ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder.
After baking the meatloaf, it’s time for the mashed potato topping. You’ll need 4 cups of mashed potatoes. They’re spread over the meatloaf, creating a unique casserole. A quick broil makes the potatoes crispy and golden.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 minutes | 55 minutes | 1 hour 15 minutes | 8 |
This meatloaf casserole is comforting and nutritious. Each serving has carbs, protein, and healthy fats. It’s a nourishing potato-topped meatloaf for comfort food lovers.
“This classic meatloaf casserole is a true crowd-pleaser that brings the ultimate in comfort food satisfaction.”
The Art of Potato “Frosting” Technique
The potato “frosting” technique takes the classic meatloaf to new levels. It involves spreading creamy mashed potatoes over the meatloaf. This adds texture and taste, making it a casserole topping.
Application Methods
Mastering the potato “frosting” technique starts with how you apply it. After the meatloaf cools for 10 minutes, it’s time to add the potatoes. Scoop out some mashed potatoes and spread them evenly over the meatloaf.
To make it look great, also spread the potatoes down the sides. This creates a smooth finish.
Achieving the Perfect Texture
The secret to a great potato “frosting” is in the potatoes’ temperature. They should be room temperature or slightly warm. This makes them easy to spread.
Don’t use cold mashed potatoes. They’re hard to spread and might look lumpy. Focus on the right texture for a perfect topping.
The mix of juicy meatloaf and creamy potato topping is amazing. It balances flavors and textures, making the dish even better. Try the potato “frosting” technique for a culinary delight.
Temperature and Timing Guidelines
To make the perfect meatloaf, you need to get the temperature and timing right. First, preheat your oven to 350°F. Then, bake the meatloaf for about one hour. After that, let it rest for 10 minutes to let the juices settle.
Next, turn the oven up to 450°F. Broil the meatloaf with the mashed potato topping for 5-10 minutes. This will make the potatoes brown. The whole process, including resting and broiling, should take about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
It’s crucial to use a meat thermometer to check the meatloaf’s internal temperature. It should be 160°F before you serve it. This rule applies to meatloaf made from ground beef, pork, veal, or lamb. If your meatloaf is made from poultry, it needs to be 165°F.
| Cooking Step | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat Oven | 350°F | – |
| Bake Meatloaf | 350°F | 1 hour |
| Rest Meatloaf | – | 10 minutes |
| Broil with Potato Topping | 450°F | 5-10 minutes |
| Total Cooking Time | – | Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes |
Following these guidelines will help you make a delicious meatloaf that’s also safe to eat.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Crispy Potato Top
Turning a simple meatloaf and mashed potato dish into something special is all about the finishing touches. The key is a crispy potato topping that adds a golden-brown crunch. With a few easy steps, you can make your meatloaf topping both crispy and delicious.
Butter Drizzling Technique
To get a crispy potato topping, start by preparing your mashed potatoes right. Spread them over the meatloaf, then drizzle 2 tablespoons of melted butter over the top. This step is crucial for achieving those crispy edges and golden spots.
Final Broiling Instructions
- Preheat your oven’s broiler to 450°F (230°C).
- Place the meatloaf with the buttered mashed potato topping under the broiler.
- Broil for 5-10 minutes, watching the topping to avoid burning.
- The topping should turn golden-brown and crispy.
- After broiling, let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before serving.
By using these tips for a crispy potato topping, broiling techniques, and meatloaf finishing, your dish will be a hit. You’ll enjoy tender meatloaf, fluffy potatoes, and a crispy topping in every bite.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftover meatloaf with mashed potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in the microwave or oven. For oven reheating, cover with foil to keep it moist, then remove for a few minutes to crisp the topping.
Meatloaf can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Oven reheating takes 30-45 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Microwave reheating is done in 1-2 minute intervals, depending on the slice’s thickness.
Keeping the meatloaf moist while reheating is key. Adding water in the oven or drizzling sauces like gravy or ketchup helps. Reheating at lower temperatures and in shorter intervals also preserves flavor and texture.