Fall Comfort Food: Classic Meatloaf & Mashed Potatoes

There’s something about the aroma of a classic meatloaf baking in the oven that wraps around you like a warm blanket on a chilly fall evening. The rich, savory scent of ground beef mingling with herbs and spices fills the air, making your mouth water in anticipation. creamy parmesan smashed potatoes As you stir the mixture, it’s like a comforting hug from your grandma—nostalgic and irresistibly delicious. savory ground beef lettuce wraps Paired with buttery, creamy mashed potatoes, this fall comfort food is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you back to cozy family dinners. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe.

Now, picture this: it’s a crisp autumn day, leaves are falling like confetti, and your family gathers around the dinner table. You serve up slices of meatloaf alongside fluffy mashed potatoes that practically beg for gravy. As everyone digs in, you can’t help but smile at their wide-eyed approval—because nothing says “I love you” quite like a hearty plate of classic meatloaf and mashed potatoes.

I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends; they all asked for seconds and even thirds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture.
• Breadcrumbs: I prefer using plain breadcrumbs for better flavor absorption. For more inspiration, check out this cinnamon sugar donut bread recipe.
• Eggs: Two eggs help bind everything together; fresh eggs work best.
• Onion: Finely chop one medium onion to add sweetness and moisture.
• Ketchup: A classic ingredient that adds both flavor and moisture to the meatloaf.
• Seasonings: Use salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning for an aromatic punch.
• Potatoes: For creamy mashed potatoes, choose Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes.
• Butter and Cream: These enhance texture in the mashed potatoes; use generously!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking as you prepare the meatloaf mixture.

Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, ketchup, eggs, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until just combined—don’t overdo it!

Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or shape it into a loaf on a lined baking sheet. Form it gently so it stays tender.

Add Topping: Spread some extra ketchup over the top of your meatloaf before placing it in the oven. It caramelizes beautifully while baking!

Bake Until Done: Bake in your preheated oven for about 1 hour or until an internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). A delicious aroma will fill your kitchen!

Prepare Mashed Potatoes While Baking: While waiting for your meatloaf to bake, peel and chop potatoes into even chunks. Boil them until fork-tender before mashing with butter and cream.

This classic meatloaf recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with laughter and joy as families come together to enjoy rich flavors on a cozy fall night. Enjoy every bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by prepping your ingredients, then mix the meat with seasonings before forming your loaf. Bake until juicy perfection at 350°F for about an hour, ensuring even cooking for delightful results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken, add veggies like bell peppers, or experiment with different sauces for topping! Your creativity can elevate this classic dish to new heights. family-friendly chicken pizza crust flavorful blackened chicken.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven to enjoy warm, comforting meals all week long.

Sometimes I catch my grandma eyeing my meatloaf suspiciously, but when she finally takes a bite, her smile says it all—she’s impressed!

FAQ

Can I use different meats for meatloaf?

Yes, you can use turkey, pork, or even plant-based alternatives for a unique twist.

How long should I bake the meatloaf?

Bake your meatloaf at 350°F for around one hour or until fully cooked through.

Can I freeze leftover meatloaf?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly and store in the freezer for up to three months.

Print

Classic Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

---

• Author: Ava Mack
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the comforting warmth of classic meatloaf paired with creamy mashed potatoes. This timeless dish features a savory blend of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and aromatic spices, all baked to perfection. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this recipe promises to transport you back to cherished moments around the dinner table. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s an experience that everyone will love.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes
• 4 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup cream

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped onion, ketchup, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until just combined.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish or lined baking sheet. Spread extra ketchup on top.
4. Bake for about 60 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
5. While baking, peel and chop potatoes; boil until fork-tender. Drain and mash with butter and cream until smooth.
6. Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving with mashed potatoes.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing in diced bell peppers or swapping ground beef for turkey or chicken. Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or frozen for up to three months.