You'll love this classic comfort food duo of meatloaf with mashed potatoes! It's a hearty, satisfying meal that's perfect for family dinners. To make it, preheat your oven to 350°F. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings in a bowl. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking pan. Bake for about an hour until it's cooked through. While it's baking, whip up some creamy mashed potatoes. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve it alongside the fluffy potatoes for a comforting meal that'll warm your heart. There's so much more to discover about this delicious dish!
Key Takeaways
- Meatloaf and mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food pairing, popular for family dinners and potlucks.
- The meatloaf is made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings, baked for 60 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
- Mashed potatoes are prepared by boiling peeled, cubed potatoes and mashing them with butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to ensure easy slicing and retain juiciness.
- This meal is protein-rich, with approximately 250 calories and 20g of protein per slice of meatloaf.
History
Meatloaf's origins can be traced back to ancient Rome, where cooks combined minced meat with spices and bread to create a dish called pastum. You'd be amazed to know that this humble dish has been evolving for centuries!
As people moved across Europe, they brought their meatloaf recipes with them, each region adding its own special touch.
In America, meatloaf became popular during the Great Depression. It was a perfect way to stretch expensive meat by mixing it with cheaper ingredients like breadcrumbs. You might've heard your grandparents talk about how meatloaf was a staple during tough times.
Mashed potatoes, meatloaf's best friend, have their own fascinating history. They've been around since the 1600s when potatoes were first brought to Europe from South America. Can you imagine a time without mashed potatoes?
Together, meatloaf and mashed potatoes became the ultimate comfort food duo. They've graced dinner tables for generations, bringing families together with their warm, hearty goodness.
It's amazing how these simple dishes have stood the test of time, isn't it?
Cooking Steps
To kick off the cooking process, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
While it's heating up, grab a large bowl and mix your ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. Use your hands to combine everything well. It's fun and messy!
Next, shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish. Pop it in the oven for about an hour. Once the loaf is golden brown and cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. In the meantime, you can prepare the delicious bread pudding recipe by tearing the loaf into chunks and layering them in a baking dish. Pour the custard mixture over the bread and let it soak for at least 30 minutes before baking it in the oven.
While your meatloaf is cooking, let's make those creamy mashed potatoes. Peel and chop your potatoes, then boil them until they're nice and soft.
When the potatoes are ready, drain them and mash them up. Add butter, milk, and salt to taste. Keep them warm while you wait for the meatloaf.
Once your meatloaf is done, take it out and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep all those yummy juices inside.
Slice it up and serve with a generous scoop of mashed potatoes on the side. You've just made a delicious, comforting meal that's sure to make everyone at the table happy!
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 350°F
Preheating your oven is a crucial first step in preparing meatloaf with mashed potatoes. Before you start mixing ingredients or shaping your meatloaf, you'll want to get your oven ready.
Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up. This process usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes, depending on your oven.
While you're waiting, it's the perfect time to gather your ingredients and prepare your baking dish. You'll be glad you did this step first because once your meatloaf is ready to go in, your oven will be at the right temperature.
This ensures even cooking and helps your meatloaf develop that delicious golden-brown crust.
Step 2. Mix Ingredients in Bowl
With your oven preheating, it's time to assemble your meatloaf mixture. Grab a large mixing bowl and get ready to combine all your ingredients. First, crack two eggs into the bowl and give them a quick whisk.
Now, add your ground beef – about 2 pounds should do the trick. Don't forget to sprinkle in some salt and pepper for flavor!
Next, it's time for the fun stuff. Toss in some finely chopped onions and minced garlic. These will give your meatloaf a delicious aroma and taste. Add a cup of breadcrumbs to help bind everything together.
For extra flavor, mix in some ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and your favorite herbs like parsley or thyme.
Now, roll up your sleeves and use your hands to mix everything thoroughly. Don't be afraid to get messy – it's the best way to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Keep mixing until everything is well combined and the mixture looks uniform. You'll know it's ready when it feels like a cohesive mass that holds its shape when you form it into a loaf.
Step 3. Form Loaf in Baking Pan
Once you've thoroughly mixed your meatloaf ingredients, it's time to shape the loaf. Grab your baking pan and give it a light coat of cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Now, scoop all the meat mixture into the pan. Don't be shy – get your hands in there and start molding!
Press the mixture firmly into the pan, making sure it's evenly distributed. You'll want to create a loaf shape that's about 2 inches thick. As you form the loaf, pat the top and sides to smooth them out. This will help your meatloaf cook evenly and look great when it's done.
If you like, you can add a fun touch by rounding the corners or giving the top a slight dome shape. Some people even like to create a small indentation along the top for sauce later.
Once you're happy with the shape, wash your hands well.
Your meatloaf is now ready for the oven! But before you pop it in, take a moment to admire your handiwork. You've just created a beautiful loaf that's sure to be delicious!
Step 4. Bake for 60 Minutes
Now that your meatloaf is shaped and ready, it's time to bake it to perfection. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and make sure the rack is in the center position. This temperature will cook your meatloaf evenly without drying it out.
Place the baking pan with your meatloaf into the preheated oven. Set your timer for 60 minutes, but don't forget to check on it occasionally. You'll know it's done when the top is nicely browned and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
If you don't have a meat thermometer, don't worry! You can tell it's cooked when the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink in the center.
While it's baking, your kitchen will fill with the mouthwatering aroma of herbs and spices. It's the perfect time to prepare your mashed potatoes or any other side dishes.
Step 5. Let Rest Before Serving
After you've baked your meatloaf to perfection, it's crucial to let it rest before serving. This step is just as important as the cooking itself!
When you take the meatloaf out of the oven, it's still sizzling and full of hot juices. If you cut into it right away, all those tasty juices will spill out, leaving you with a dry meatloaf. Nobody wants that!
Instead, let your meatloaf rest for about 10 to 15 minutes. During this time, the juices will redistribute throughout the meat, making every bite moist and delicious.
While you're waiting, you can finish up your mashed potatoes or other side dishes. It's the perfect time to set the table, too!
Cover your meatloaf loosely with foil to keep it warm. This resting period also allows the meatloaf to firm up a bit, making it easier to slice.
When it's time to serve, you'll be amazed at how easily your knife glides through the meat. Each slice will hold its shape beautifully on the plate, ready to be paired with your creamy mashed potatoes. Your patience will be rewarded with a mouthwatering meal!
Final Thoughts
This classic comfort food combo of meatloaf and mashed potatoes is sure to become a family favorite.
It's a hearty meal that'll warm your heart and fill your belly. You've learned how to create a juicy, flavorful meatloaf and creamy, smooth mashed potatoes that complement each other perfectly.
Remember, the key to a great meatloaf is using the right mix of ingredients and not overmixing.
For the potatoes, don't forget to season well and add butter for that rich taste. The gravy ties everything together, so take your time to make it just right.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs or spices to make this dish your own. You might want to try adding cheese to the mashed potatoes or using a mix of meats in the meatloaf. The possibilities are endless!
This meal is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you're craving some comfort food.
With a little practice, you'll be making meatloaf and mashed potatoes like a pro. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Freeze Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes Together?
You can freeze meatloaf and mashed potatoes together, but it's not ideal. They'll freeze at different rates, affecting texture. It's better to freeze them separately. If you do combine them, use an airtight container and consume within 2-3 months.
What Are Good Side Dishes to Serve With This Meal?
You'll love pairing your meal with roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, or a fresh garden salad. Don't forget classics like green beans, corn on the cob, or glazed carrots. For variety, try coleslaw or garlic bread too.
How Long Can Leftover Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes Be Stored?
You can store leftover meatloaf and mashed potatoes in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure you refrigerate them within two hours of cooking. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.
Is It Possible to Make a Vegetarian Version of This Dish?
Yes, you can create a delicious vegetarian version. Use plant-based meat substitutes or lentils for the "meatloaf," and keep the mashed potatoes as-is. You'll get a similar texture and flavor without any animal products.
What Wine Pairs Well With Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes?
You'll want a medium-bodied red wine to complement your meal. Try a Merlot, Zinfandel, or Syrah. They'll balance the savory flavors without overpowering them. If you prefer white, a Chardonnay can work well too.
Rachel is all about nostalgic comfort food with a modern twist. She brings the flavors of classic American diners to Cook if Ya, with her takes on burgers, fries, and milkshakes. Rachel’s love for simple, hearty meals brings a bit of retro flair to the table, reminding us all of the joys of classic diner dishes.
