Meatloaf Mashed Potatoes Cheese (Printable Recipe)

Tender meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and melty cheese in a single dish.

# Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Meatloaf Base

01 - 1½ pounds ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)
02 - ½ cup plain breadcrumbs
03 - ¼ cup whole milk
04 - 1 large egg
05 - 3 tablespoons ketchup
06 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
08 - 1 teaspoon salt
09 - ½ teaspoon black pepper

→ Mashed Potato Layer

10 - 3 cups prepared mashed potatoes
11 - 2 tablespoons sour cream
12 - 2 tablespoons butter
13 - Salt and pepper to taste

→ Cheese Topping

14 - 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
02 - In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined, avoiding overworking the meat.
03 - Press meat mixture evenly into prepared baking dish, creating a flat, compact layer. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until partially cooked through.
04 - While meatloaf bakes, combine mashed potatoes with sour cream and butter. Mix until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
05 - Remove meatloaf from oven and carefully spread prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the surface, creating a smooth layer from edge to edge.
06 - Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over mashed potatoes. Return to oven and bake 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
07 - Allow casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to help layers set. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Use 80/20 ground beef for optimal moisture and flavor balance
02 - Don't overmix the meat mixture to prevent tough, dense texture
03 - Make mashed potatoes slightly thicker than usual so they hold their shape when sliced
04 - Let the casserole rest before cutting to prevent layers from sliding apart
05 - Can be assembled up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated before baking