Pin A comforting, homestyle dish featuring juicy, flavorful meatloaf paired with creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. The perfect family dinner for any night of the week.
I first made this recipe for my kids on a chilly Sunday evening when we craved something cozy and nostalgic. The aroma of the meatloaf baking always brings everyone into the kitchen with anticipation.
Ingredients
- Ground beef (1 ½ lbs/680 g, 80/20 blend recommended): Provides moisture and rich flavor for the meatloaf
- Ground pork (½ lb/225 g): Adds tenderness and juiciness
- Breadcrumbs (1 cup/100 g): Binds the mixture and improves texture
- Onion (1 medium, finely chopped): Enhances sweetness and savor
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Deepens flavor complexity
- Eggs (2 large): Further binds the loaf
- Whole milk (½ cup/120 ml): Moistens the mixture
- Ketchup (⅓ cup/80 ml): Adds tang and flavor
- Worcestershire sauce (2 tbsp): Adds umami depth
- Dijon mustard (2 tsp): Provides a subtle sharpness
- Salt (1 ½ tsp): Essential for seasoning
- Black pepper (1 tsp): Balances flavors
- Dried thyme (1 tsp): Lends earthy undertones
- Meatloaf Glaze: Ketchup (½ cup/120 ml), brown sugar (2 tbsp), Dijon mustard (1 tbsp), apple cider vinegar (1 tbsp): Tangy-sweet finish
- Russet potatoes (2 ½ lbs/1.1 kg, peeled and cut into chunks): Perfect base for creamy mashed potatoes
- Whole milk (½ cup/120 ml, warmed): Adds richness
- Unsalted butter (¼ cup/60 g): Provides creaminess
- Sour cream (½ cup/120 ml): Adds tang and smoothness
- Salt (1 ½ tsp): Seasons potatoes
- Black pepper (½ tsp): For a touch of spice
Instructions
- Prepare Your Oven:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix gently until just combined (avoid overmixing).
- Shape and Glaze:
- Shape the mixture into a loaf on the baking sheet or press into the loaf pan. Stir together ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar for the glaze. Spread half the glaze over the meatloaf.
- Bake Meatloaf:
- Bake for 40 minutes. Remove, spread remaining glaze on top, and bake another 20–25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Prepare Mashed Potatoes:
- While meatloaf bakes, place potatoes in a pot with cold water and 1 tsp salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until potatoes are very tender (18–20 minutes).
- Mash and Finish:
- Drain potatoes, return to pot, add warm milk, butter, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
- Serve:
- Let meatloaf rest 10 minutes before slicing. Serve hot with mashed potatoes.
Pin There's something special about gathering around the dinner table to enjoy this comforting meal, just like my parents did on busy weeknights years ago. Now, my kids request it on birthdays and cold winter evenings.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, loaf pan or baking sheet, saucepan or pot, potato masher or ricer, knife and cutting board, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains eggs, dairy, gluten (breadcrumbs), mustard. May contain soy if using Worcestershire sauce. Always check store-bought ingredient labels for additional allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 480, Total Fat: 23 g, Carbohydrates: 37 g, Protein: 29 g
Pin Serve your classic meatloaf and mashed potatoes with a side of green beans or carrots for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite and the smiles it brings to your table!
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I keep meatloaf juicy?
Mix ingredients gently and avoid overworking. Milk, eggs, and pork add moisture, while the glaze seals in flavor.
- → Can I substitute the meats?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef and pork for lighter variations. Adjust seasonings as needed.
- → What’s the secret to creamy potatoes?
Use russet potatoes, drain well, and blend with warm milk, butter, and sour cream for smooth, velvety results.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Cool thoroughly, then refrigerate in an airtight container up to 3 days. Meatloaf slices are delicious in sandwiches.
- → Any suggested wine pairings?
Choose a medium-bodied red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, to complement robust meatloaf flavors.
- → Are there gluten-free options?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and check labels on sauces to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.