Meatloaf and mashed potatoes

Here’s a classic, hearty recipe for Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes—comfort food at its finest.

Meatloaf

Ingredients (serves 4–6)

• 1 ½ lb (700 g) ground beef (or half beef, half pork for more flavor)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• ½ cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp ketchup (plus extra for topping)
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven: 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix gently—don’t overwork the meat.
3. Shape loaf: Form mixture into a loaf shape and place in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan (or on a baking sheet lined with parchment).
4. Top with ketchup: Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top for a classic glaze.
5. Bake: 55–65 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing.

Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients

• 2 lbs (900 g) potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tbsp butter
• ½ cup milk (adjust for desired creaminess)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: 2 tbsp sour cream or cream cheese for extra richness

Instructions

1. Boil potatoes: Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Cook 15–20 minutes until fork-tender.
2. Drain and mash: Drain well, then mash with butter and milk (and sour cream if using) until smooth.
3. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm until serving.

Serving Tip

• Slice the meatloaf and serve alongside a generous scoop of mashed potatoes.
• Optional: Pour a simple gravy over the potatoes (made from pan drippings, a little flour, and stock) for extra comfort.

If you want, I can also give a faster, one-pan meatloaf and mashed potato bake version where everything cooks together in the oven. It’s a weeknight-friendly shortcut.

Do you want me to do that?