Meatloaf with Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Introduction

Meatloaf with Garlic Mashed Potatoes is a classic, comforting meal that has been loved by families for generations. This combination of savory, hearty meatloaf and creamy mashed potatoes infused with the aromatic goodness of garlic is the epitome of home-cooked comfort food. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or a special occasion, this dish never disappoints.

The meatloaf, made with a blend of ground beef and seasonings, is perfectly balanced in flavor, tender in texture, and topped with a savory glaze that adds a touch of sweetness. Paired with velvety mashed potatoes enriched with roasted garlic, this meal is sure to satisfy your taste buds. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, Meatloaf with Garlic Mashed Potatoes is the perfect recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, satisfying dinner.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making this hearty meal, from preparing the meatloaf and seasoning it just right, to creating the perfect mashed potatoes that complement the richness of the dish. Additionally, we’ll share some tips to help you elevate this meal, explore possible variations, and suggest side dishes that pair wonderfully with this comforting plate.

Why You’ll Love Meatloaf with Garlic Mashed Potatoes

• Comforting and Hearty: The combination of flavorful meatloaf and creamy mashed potatoes makes this dish a satisfying comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s filling, delicious, and comforting, ideal for family dinners.
• Versatile: This recipe is customizable, allowing you to adjust the seasonings, toppings, or even the type of meat used in the meatloaf. You can also modify the mashed potatoes to your preference, whether you prefer them extra creamy or with a hint of tangy sour cream.
• Easy to Prepare: Despite being a hearty meal, this recipe is simple to make. The ingredients are straightforward, and the cooking process is efficient. Both the meatloaf and mashed potatoes can be prepared at the same time, making this a convenient meal for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Meatloaf with Garlic Mashed Potatoes is one of those dishes that always gets rave reviews. It’s loved by kids and adults alike and is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even just a cozy dinner for two.
• Meal Prep-Friendly: This dish is ideal for meal prep. The meatloaf can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for a few days, or you can freeze individual portions for future meals. The mashed potatoes also keep well and can be reheated when needed.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 6 servings
• Calories per Serving: 500-600 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and specific ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 500-600 kcal
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 8g

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (preferably 80/20 for the best balance of flavor and moisture)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use whole wheat or regular, depending on preference)
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking pan)

For the Garlic Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes (or russet potatoes if preferred)
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
• 1/2 cup milk (adjust as needed for desired consistency)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatloaf

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a loaf pan with olive oil. If you don’t have a loaf pan, you can also form the meatloaf on a baking sheet, but using a pan helps it hold its shape while baking.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and paprika. Using your hands or a spoon, mix everything together until the ingredients are just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a denser meatloaf.

Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down gently to ensure an even shape. Once in the pan, spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf to create a glaze. This adds a tangy, slightly sweet flavor to the exterior of the meatloaf as it cooks.

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) on a meat thermometer. The top should be slightly caramelized, and the meatloaf should be firm to the touch. If you prefer a crispier top, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.

2. Make the Garlic Mashed Potatoes

While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the garlic mashed potatoes. Begin by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into evenly sized chunks. This ensures they cook evenly. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.

Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Add the smashed garlic cloves to the pot during the last 5 minutes of cooking to infuse the potatoes with garlic flavor.

Once the potatoes are tender, drain them and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, salt, and pepper, then use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.

For extra flavor, you can garnish the mashed potatoes with freshly chopped parsley or a drizzle of olive oil.

3. Serve and Enjoy

Once the meatloaf is cooked through and the garlic mashed potatoes are ready, it’s time to serve! Slice the meatloaf into individual portions and serve it alongside a generous scoop of the garlic mashed potatoes. For a touch of color and freshness, garnish the dish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or your favorite herbs.

This meal is perfect on its own, but if you want to make it even heartier, consider adding a side of steamed vegetables, a crisp salad, or even some roasted Brussels sprouts for a complete dinner.

Tips for Perfect Meatloaf with Garlic Mashed Potatoes

• Don’t Overmix the Meatloaf: When combining the meatloaf ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can result in a tough, dense texture.
• Use Lean Ground Beef: Choose ground beef with a bit of fat (80/20 or 85/15) to ensure the meatloaf is juicy. However, if you prefer a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken.
• Adjust the Seasonings: The seasoning in the meatloaf is key to achieving great flavor. Taste the mixture before baking, and feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to your liking.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For an extra creamy texture, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the mashed potatoes. You can also add sour cream for extra richness if desired.
• Rest the Meatloaf: Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps it hold its shape when sliced and allows the juices to redistribute.

Variations of Meatloaf with Garlic Mashed Potatoes

• Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf: For a cheesy twist, try stuffing your meatloaf with mozzarella or cheddar cheese. Simply create a small well in the center of the meat mixture and fill it with cheese before baking.
• Vegetable-Infused Meatloaf: Add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to the meatloaf mixture for added texture and flavor. This is a great way to sneak in extra nutrients.
• Sweet Potato Mashed Potatoes: Swap out regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a healthier, naturally sweeter version of mashed potatoes. You can still infuse them with garlic and butter for a rich taste.
• Spicy Meatloaf: If you love heat, add red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free Meatloaf: To make the meatloaf gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute them with crushed rice crackers or oats.

Storage and Shelf Life

Leftovers of Meatloaf with Garlic Mashed Potatoes can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat the meatloaf and mashed potatoes in the oven until warmed through.

Both the meatloaf and mashed potatoes also freeze well. You can freeze individual slices of meatloaf or the entire loaf for later use. Freeze the mashed potatoes in a separate container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Meatloaf with Garlic Mashed Potatoes

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts complement the richness of the meatloaf and mashed potatoes.
• Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the meal.
• Mac and Cheese: For an extra indulgent meal, serve some creamy mac and cheese on the side for a double dose of comfort.
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice makes a bright, fresh side that pairs well with the savory flavors of the meatloaf.

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Conclusion

Meatloaf with Garlic Mashed Potatoes is the perfect dish to enjoy on a cozy evening with family and friends. It’s a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying meal that is easy to make and packed with comforting flavors. The tender, juicy meatloaf paired with creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic makes for a meal everyone will love. Try this recipe today and savor the warmth of a classic home-cooked dinner!