Cheesy Mashed Potato Meatloaf Bake
This comforting baked dish combines a flavorful ground beef meatloaf base with creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheddar cheese, all in one pan.
6 Servings
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1½ pounds ground beef
- ¾ cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup frozen peas
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup tomato sauce
- ¼ cup barbecue sauce
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 1½ pounds potatoes peeled and cubed
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Prepare the aromatics by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened and translucent, approximately 5–6 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Assemble the meatloaf mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, frozen peas, egg, tomato sauce, barbecue sauce, parsley, salt, pepper, and the cooled onion-garlic mixture. Mix thoroughly by hand until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape and bake the meatloaf. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking dish and form it into a loaf shape. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
- While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the mashed potatoes. Place the cubed potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, about 12–15 minutes. Drain the potatoes thoroughly.
- Mash the potatoes with the butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning to taste.
- Assemble the final bake. Remove the meatloaf from the oven after 30 minutes. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and slightly golden.
- Rest and serve. Allow the dish to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
To prepare this dish gluten-free, substitute regular breadcrumbs with a certified gluten-free variety. Additionally, ensure that the tomato sauce, barbecue sauce, and shredded cheese are labeled gluten-free, as some brands may contain additives or thickeners derived from wheat. Always verify product labels for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.