Cheesy Meatloaf on Creamy Mashed Potatoes

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Introduction to Cheesy Meatloaf on Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Cheesy Meatloaf on Creamy Mashed Potatoes is a comforting, hearty dish that combines two all-time favorite comfort foods: meatloaf and mashed potatoes. The rich, cheesy, savory meatloaf is served over a bed of buttery, smooth mashed potatoes, creating the ultimate indulgent meal. The flavors meld beautifully, with the creamy mashed potatoes acting as the perfect backdrop to the flavorful, cheesy meatloaf. It’s a one-pan dish that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or when you’re in the mood for a satisfying comfort food experience.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Meatloaf is a classic American dish that traces its origins back to the 19th century. It’s a way to stretch inexpensive ground meat, and over time, it became a staple in home cooking, often served with mashed potatoes as a side. Mashed potatoes, another comfort food classic, have roots in Europe, with the practice of mashing potatoes becoming common in the 18th century. Both of these dishes became iconic during the 20th century, especially in post-war America, as home cooks sought affordable, filling meals. The combination of cheesy meatloaf served on creamy mashed potatoes takes these nostalgic favorites to new heights, making them even more decadent and satisfying.

Ingredients and Quantity

For the Cheesy Meatloaf:

  • 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 small onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ cup ketchup (for topping)

For the Creamy Mashed Potatoes:

  • 2 lbs russet or Yukon gold potatoes (peeled and cut into chunks)
  • ½ cup butter
  • 1 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
  • 2 cloves garlic (optional, minced for flavor)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Optional Additions:

  • Cheese Variations: Add parmesan cheese to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
  • Vegetables: Finely grated zucchini or carrots can be added to the meatloaf for added moisture and nutrition.
  • Spices: For a spicy kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the meatloaf mixture.
  • Bacon: Add cooked bacon pieces to the meatloaf for an extra smoky flavor.
  • Gravy: A rich brown gravy pairs wonderfully with this dish, adding a savory depth of flavor.

Tips for Success

  1. Meat Mixture: Don’t overwork the meat mixture when forming the meatloaf. Overmixing can make it dense. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
  2. Cheese: Choose a cheese that melts well, like cheddar or mozzarella, for the best gooey texture in the meatloaf.
  3. Moisture: Keep the meatloaf moist by adding milk and egg, and don’t forget to top it with ketchup during baking for an added layer of flavor.
  4. Mashed Potatoes: For extra smooth mashed potatoes, use a potato masher or ricer. Avoid over-mashing to prevent a gummy texture.
  5. Resting Time: Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking before slicing it. This helps it hold its shape and improves the texture.

Instructions

For the Meatloaf:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet or use a loaf pan.
  2. Prepare Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, garlic, shredded cheese, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
  3. Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to a baking sheet or loaf pan and form it into a loaf shape.
  4. Top with Ketchup: Spread the ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  5. Bake: Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

For the Mashed Potatoes:

  1. Cook Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
  2. Mash Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and mash until smooth.
  3. Add Cream and Season: Gradually add the milk (or cream), garlic (if using), salt, and pepper to taste. Continue mashing until creamy and smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more milk if needed.
  4. Serve: Serve the creamy mashed potatoes as a base for the cheesy meatloaf.

Description

Cheesy Meatloaf on Creamy Mashed Potatoes is the epitome of comfort food. The meatloaf is juicy, tender, and bursting with savory flavors, while the cheese adds a rich, gooey element that melts perfectly. The mashed potatoes are creamy and buttery, serving as the ideal base for the meatloaf to rest on. The combination of these two dishes creates a satisfying, indulgent meal that is both filling and comforting. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Based on 6 servings)

  • Calories: 600-700 kcal
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
    • Sugars: 7g
  • Fat: 35g
    • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sodium: 900mg
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

(Note: Nutritional information will vary depending on specific ingredients used, such as types of cheese or the addition of bacon.)

Conclusion

Cheesy Meatloaf on Creamy Mashed Potatoes is a perfect fusion of two iconic comfort foods. The savory, cheesy meatloaf pairs perfectly with the smooth, buttery mashed potatoes, creating a satisfying meal that is sure to warm your heart. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or craving a comforting dinner, this dish delivers on both flavor and texture.

Recommendation

To elevate this dish further, consider adding a side of sautéed vegetables or a crisp green salad for added freshness. You could also experiment with different types of cheese in the meatloaf or mashed potatoes to suit your personal taste. For a lighter version, you can substitute lean ground turkey for beef and use low-fat milk or cream in the potatoes.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While this dish is indulgent, you can make small adjustments to embrace a more health-conscious version. Opt for leaner meats, add more vegetables into the meatloaf for fiber and nutrients, and reduce the amount of butter in the mashed potatoes by using Greek yogurt or a lower-fat option. Regardless of your modifications, this meal is a great way to indulge in the comforting flavors of a hearty, satisfying dish.

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