Classic Meatloaf with Creamy Mashed Potatoes & Melty Cheese

 Classic Meatloaf with Creamy Mashed Potatoes & Melty Cheese – The Ultimate Comfort Food Dinner

 Intro:

Few meals satisfy quite like a thick slice of tender, juicy meatloaf served over a bed of buttery mashed potatoes, all crowned with gooey melted cheese. This comforting classic brings back nostalgic flavors with a modern cheesy twist, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a Sunday meal that feels like home. Whether you’re serving a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this dish checks all the boxes: easy, filling, budget-friendly, and downright delicious.

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup milk
• ¾ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons ketchup (or BBQ sauce)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder or cayenne (optional for a little heat)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning

For the Topping:

• ¼ cup ketchup or BBQ sauce
• 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 4–5 medium russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup warm milk (add more for creamier texture)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar (optional but recommended for extra flavor)

 Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatloaf:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, breadcrumbs, ketchup, salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, and herbs.
3. Mix everything together using clean hands or a spoon until fully combined, but don’t overmix.
4. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on a greased baking dish or loaf pan.
5. In a small bowl, mix ketchup and honey (or brown sugar) and spread it evenly over the top of the loaf.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 45–55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Remove from oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

2. Make the Mashed Potatoes:

1. While the meatloaf bakes, boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until fork-tender, about 20 minutes.
2. Drain well and return the potatoes to the pot.
3. Add butter and warm milk, then mash until smooth and fluffy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assemble & Add Cheese:

1. In an oven-safe serving dish or individual plates, spread a thick layer of mashed potatoes.
2. Place slices of meatloaf on top.
3. Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese generously over everything.
4. Broil in the oven for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

 Tips for Success:

• Don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture—it can make it tough.
• Add grated carrots or zucchini for extra moisture and nutrition.
• Want more flavor? Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mix.
• For extra crispy edges, bake the meatloaf freeform on a sheet pan instead of a loaf pan.

 Storage & Reheating:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• This meal also freezes beautifully—wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

 Nutrition Estimate (per serving):

• Calories: ~550
• Protein: ~30g
• Carbs: ~35g
• Fat: ~28g