Save A comforting, homestyle dish featuring juicy, flavorful meatloaf paired with creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. The perfect family dinner for any night of the week.
I remember making this classic combo for our first Sunday dinner after moving into our new house. The aroma filled the kitchen and instantly made it feel like home. Everyone asked for seconds and it became our go-to family favorite.
Ingredients
- Ground beef (1 ½ lbs 680 g 80/20 blend recommended): Provides rich flavor and juiciness for the meatloaf
- Ground pork (½ lb 225 g): Lends additional tenderness and richness to the loaf
- Breadcrumbs (1 cup 100 g): Helps bind the meatloaf together and adds texture
- Onion (1 medium finely chopped): Adds depth and savoriness
- Garlic (2 cloves minced): Provides robust flavor notes
- Eggs (2 large): Bind the loaf and contribute to moisture
- Whole milk (½ cup 120 ml): Keeps the meatloaf tender
- Ketchup (⅓ cup 80 ml for loaf ½ cup 120 ml for glaze): Adds tang and sweetness
- Worcestershire sauce (2 tbsp): Enhances umami flavor
- Dijon mustard (2 tsp for loaf 1 tbsp for glaze): Provides mild heat and sharpness
- Salt (1 ½ tsp for loaf 1 ½ tsp for potatoes 1 tsp for boiling potatoes): Essential for seasoning
- Black pepper (1 tsp for loaf ½ tsp for potatoes): Adds a subtle punch
- Dried thyme (1 tsp): Delivers earthy herbal flavor
- Brown sugar (2 tbsp for glaze): Balances acidity in glaze
- Apple cider vinegar (1 tbsp for glaze): Brightens glaze with a touch of tang
- Russet potatoes (2 ½ lbs 1.1 kg peeled and cut into chunks): Perfect for creamy mashed potatoes
- Whole milk (½ cup 120 ml warmed for potatoes): Ensures potatoes are silky
- Unsalted butter (¼ cup 60 g): Adds richness to mashed potatoes
- Sour cream (½ cup 120 ml): Makes mashed potatoes extra creamy
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
- Mix Meatloaf:
- In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, pork, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and thyme. Do not overmix.
- Shape & Glaze:
- Form mixture into a loaf on the prepared sheet or press into loaf pan. Mix glaze ingredients (ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon, vinegar), spread half over loaf.
- Bake Meatloaf:
- Bake for 40 minutes. Spread reserved glaze on top, bake another 20 25 minutes until internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Cook Potatoes:
- While meatloaf bakes, place potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water and 1 tsp salt. Boil, then simmer until tender, 18 20 minutes.
- Mash Potatoes:
- Drain well and return to pot. Add warm milk, butter, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
- Rest & Serve:
- Let meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with mashed potatoes.
Save Serving this meal always brings back memories of everyone gathering around the table, swapping stories and laughing together as we enjoyed every bite. Even picky eaters never complained when this was on the menu.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, loaf pan or baking sheet, saucepan or pot, potato masher or ricer, knife and cutting board, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains: Eggs, Dairy, Gluten (breadcrumbs), Mustard. May contain: Soy (in Worcestershire sauce). Check labels for additional allergens in store bought products.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 480 calories, 23 g total fat, 37 g carbohydrates, 29 g protein
Save This classic meal brings warmth and comfort to any table. Perfect for leftovers, and you'll want to make it again and again!
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep meatloaf moist?
Mix gently and use eggs, milk, and breadcrumbs to retain moisture. Avoid overmixing the meat to prevent dryness.
- → Which potatoes are best for mashing?
Use russet potatoes for a fluffy, creamy texture because of their high starch content and easy blending.
- → How do I know when meatloaf is done?
Insert a meat thermometer into the center. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for safe serving.
- → Can I substitute other meats for beef and pork?
Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of beef and pork. Adjust seasonings to taste to enhance flavor.
- → What can I add for extra flavor?
Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, and consider topping mashed potatoes with chopped green onions or chives.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Allow leftovers to cool, then store in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They’re great for sandwiches the next day.