Introduction

Classic Beef Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food — a hearty, flavorful dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to any meal. Tender, seasoned ground beef is mixed with breadcrumbs, onions, and aromatic herbs, then baked to perfection with a rich, tangy tomato glaze. Served alongside creamy, buttery mashed potatoes, this meal is both satisfying and timeless.

Meatloaf is more than just a dinner; it’s a family tradition in many households. Its simplicity allows the flavors of quality beef and fresh ingredients to shine, while the mashed potatoes create a perfect canvas for the savory sauce. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight or a special Sunday dinner, this dish never fails to please.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s classic comfort on a plate. Each slice of meatloaf is perfectly moist, packed with flavor, and topped with a tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. The mashed potatoes are buttery, creamy, and smooth — the ideal side to soak up the savory juices.

It’s a recipe that feels both homemade and hearty, evoking memories of family dinners while being simple enough to recreate any night of the week. Every bite is a satisfying combination of texture, flavor, and nostalgia.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it’s a timeless classic that’s universally loved. Unlike complicated recipes, it’s straightforward but delivers maximum flavor. The combination of beef, aromatic vegetables, and a lightly sweet glaze creates a balance of savory and sweet that appeals to all ages.

It’s also versatile — perfect for feeding a family, preparing for leftovers, or even freezing for busy nights. Once you try this recipe, it becomes a reliable go-to for comfort food cravings.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: ~560 kcal per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs (900 g) ground beef (80/20 for flavor)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
• ½ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 lbs (900 g) potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and cubed
• 4 tbsp butter
• ½ cup whole milk (or cream for extra richness)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil or butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley.
2. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until evenly combined. Avoid overmixing, which can make the meatloaf dense.

Step 3: Shape and Glaze

1. Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape into a loaf.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Reserve the rest for serving or brushing halfway through baking.

Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf

1. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes.
2. Optional: Brush remaining glaze over the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of baking for extra shine and flavor.
3. Check doneness with a meat thermometer — the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
4. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Step 5: Prepare Mashed Potatoes

1. Boil potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes until tender.
2. Drain and return to the pot.
3. Add butter and milk, then mash until smooth and creamy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

1. Slice the meatloaf into even portions.
2. Serve alongside a generous scoop of mashed potatoes.
3. Drizzle remaining glaze or pan juices over the meatloaf for extra flavor.

Recipe Tips

• Use a meat thermometer: Ensures perfectly cooked meatloaf without drying out.
• Don’t overmix: Overworking the beef can make the loaf dense.
• Rest before slicing: This helps keep the slices intact and juicy.
• Optional vegetables: Add grated carrots or diced bell peppers for extra nutrition and moisture.
• Make ahead: Meatloaf mixture can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated before baking.

Recipe Variations

1. Turkey or Chicken Meatloaf: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
2. Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf: Add a layer of shredded mozzarella or cheddar in the center.
3. Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf: Wrap the loaf in bacon slices for added flavor and moisture.
4. Spicy Meatloaf: Add 1–2 tsp of chili powder or cayenne to the mixture for a kick.
5. Vegetable-Loaded: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra texture and flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store cooked meatloaf in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap cooked meatloaf tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes.
• Mashed Potatoes: Can be refrigerated for 2–3 days or frozen separately for up to 2 months. Reheat with a splash of milk or cream.

Special Equipment Needed

• Loaf pan (8×4 or 9×5-inch)
• Large mixing bowl
• Potato masher or ricer
• Whisk for glaze
• Meat thermometer

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make meatloaf without a loaf pan?
Yes — shape the mixture into a freeform loaf on a lined baking sheet. Cooking time may be slightly reduced.

Q2: Can I prepare meatloaf in advance?
Yes — assemble the mixture and refrigerate overnight. Bake the next day for maximum flavor.

Q3: How can I keep meatloaf moist?
Use a mixture of ground beef with some fat content (80/20), add milk and egg, and avoid overmixing.

Q4: What’s the best topping for meatloaf?
Classic ketchup glaze works best, but barbecue sauce, tomato sauce, or honey-mustard can also be delicious.

Q5: Can I freeze meatloaf before baking?
Yes — wrap the raw loaf tightly in plastic and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

Conclusion

Classic Beef Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes is the epitome of comfort food — hearty, flavorful, and nostalgic. Each slice is tender, juicy, and topped with a tangy, caramelized glaze, perfectly complemented by creamy mashed potatoes.

It’s a versatile, family-friendly dish that works for weeknight dinners, Sunday gatherings, or meal prep. Simple, satisfying, and timeless, this recipe proves that classic comfort food will always have a place at the table.