Nothing brings people together quite like a hearty, home-cooked meal—and this Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese is the very definition of comfort food. Tender, savory meatloaf forms the base, topped with creamy mashed potatoes and a generous layer of melted cheese. It’s a complete, all-in-one dish that satisfies every craving for warmth, richness, and nostalgia.
Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or Sunday gatherings, this baked casserole-style dish transforms a few humble ingredients into something absolutely soul-satisfying.
Why This Recipe Works
This dish combines three classic elements—meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and cheese—into one irresistible bake. Each component complements the others beautifully:
- The meatloaf is juicy and savory.
- The mashed potatoes are buttery and smooth.
- The cheese brings the final melty finish that ties everything together.
Plus, it’s easy to make ahead and adapts well to variations, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights or when hosting guests.
Ingredients List
For the Meatloaf
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend is ideal)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly prepared)
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup milk (add more if needed for texture)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Topping
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Meatloaf
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix the meatloaf ingredients in a large bowl: ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it into the baking dish.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Make the Mashed Potatoes
- In a separate bowl, combine mashed potatoes, melted butter, sour cream, and milk.
- Stir until creamy and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
- If potatoes are too thick, add a splash more milk for spreadability.
Assemble and Finish
- Remove the baked meatloaf from the oven.
- Carefully spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the mashed potato layer.
- Return to the oven for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Allow the dish to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired, and serve warm.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Avoid overmixing the meatloaf ingredients; this can lead to a dense or rubbery texture.
- Use room-temperature mashed potatoes to make spreading easier.
- Add a layer of aluminum foil during baking if you want to prevent the cheese from browning too much.
- For extra flavor, use sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses such as mozzarella and gouda.
Flavor Variations
BBQ-Twist
Swap the ketchup for barbecue sauce in the meat mixture and drizzle some on top before the final bake.
Bacon Lovers’ Version
Stir cooked, crumbled bacon into the mashed potatoes before layering them on the meatloaf.
Turkey Alternative
Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner version, adjusting baking time slightly if needed.
Veggie Boost
Add finely diced mushrooms, carrots, or bell peppers into the meatloaf for extra nutrition and texture.
Serving Ideas
This dish is filling on its own, but you can round out your plate with simple and fresh sides:
- Steamed green beans or broccoli
- A crisp garden salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts
- Garlic bread or a warm dinner roll
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the meatloaf and mashed potato layers the day before. Refrigerate covered. Add cheese just before baking, and increase the baking time by 5–10 minutes if cold from the fridge.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Absolutely. While homemade mashed potatoes offer more flavor, instant mashed potatoes will work in a pinch.
How long do leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave until heated through.
Can I freeze it?
Yes. Cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What type of cheese is best?
Sharp cheddar is the most popular, but you can use Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend for different flavors and textures.
Final Thoughts
Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese is the ultimate combination of rich, comforting flavors layered in one easy-to-make dish. It’s warm, filling, and full of everything we love about classic American comfort food. The best part? It’s incredibly adaptable—whether you want to swap the meat, add extra toppings, or change the cheese, the result will still be delicious.