Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing it evenly into the pan. Spread an additional 2 tablespoons of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf for extra flavor.
Step 3: Bake the Meatloaf
Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before proceeding.
Step 4: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
While the meatloaf is baking, place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the milk, butter, sour cream, salt, and black pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the cooked meatloaf. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.
Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
Let the meatloaf cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cook Notes
Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and moisture. Leaner beef may result in a drier meatloaf.
Cheese: For a more pronounced cheesy flavor, you can use a combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
Mashed Potatoes: Make sure to drain the potatoes thoroughly before mashing to avoid watery mashed potatoes.
Variations
1. BBQ Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes
Replace the ketchup with BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy flavor. You can also mix 1/4 cup BBQ sauce into the meat mixture for added depth.
2. Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf
Stir in 1/4 cup cooked, crumbled bacon and 1/4 cup chopped green onions into the mashed potatoes before spreading them on top of the meatloaf.
3. Herb and Garlic Meatloaf
Add 1 teaspoon dried rosemary and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder to the meat mixture for an herby, flavorful twist.
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