Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Simple steps make this recipe accessible, even for beginners.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: The combination of juicy meatloaf, fluffy mashed potatoes, and velvety gravy is the ultimate in comfort food.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the seasoning or add your favorite herbs to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This dish tastes just as good the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Gravy:

• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 tbsp butter

Directions

1. Make the Meatloaf:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, ketchup, salt, and pepper.
   • Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
   • Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked.
2. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
   • Boil potatoes in a large pot of water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
   • Drain and mash with milk, butter, salt, and pepper to your desired consistency.
3. Make the Gravy:
   • In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and stir in flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
   • Gradually whisk in beef broth, stirring continuously, and simmer until thickened.
4. Serve:
   • Slice the meatloaf and plate with a generous serving of mashed potatoes. Top with warm gravy and enjoy.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Add shredded cheddar cheese to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
• Herbed Meatloaf: Incorporate dried thyme, parsley, or rosemary into the meatloaf mixture.
• Vegetable Gravy: Add sautéed mushrooms or onions to the gravy for more depth.
• Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Meatloaf can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap slices individually for easy thawing.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers in the microwave or oven until heated through. Add a splash of milk to mashed potatoes to restore creaminess.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat for the meatloaf?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the ground beef.

2. How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

4. What are good side dishes for this meal?

Steamed vegetables, a green salad, or roasted carrots pair beautifully with this dish.

5. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, if you’re short on time, instant mashed potatoes can be a convenient alternative.

6. How can I make the gravy gluten-free?

Replace the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

7. Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?

Certainly! Finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or celery can be mixed into the meatloaf.

8. What’s the best way to mash potatoes?

A potato masher or ricer works well. Avoid using a blender or food processor, as it can make the potatoes gummy.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients to serve a larger group. Adjust the baking time as needed.

10. What type of potatoes work best for mashing?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for creamy mashed potatoes.

Conclusion

Meatloaf with mashed potatoes and gravy is a timeless recipe that’s both comforting and delicious. With its easy preparation and classic flavors, this dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or a cozy night at home. Give this recipe a try, and it’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.