Cheesy Meatloaf with Creamy Mashed Potatoes

This Cheesy Meatloaf with Creamy Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food combo  juicy beef meatloaf packed with melted cheese and served alongside buttery, smooth mashed potatoes. Perfect for family dinners and cozy nights in.

Cheesy Meatloaf with Creamy Mashed Potatoes

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm slice of cheesy meatloaf paired with a mound of creamy mashed potatoes. This classic dinner combination brings together hearty flavors, rich textures, and a melt-in-your-mouth experience that feels like home.

Our Cheesy Meatloaf with Creamy Mashed Potatoes takes the traditional meatloaf to the next level — loaded with gooey melted cheese inside and topped with a tangy glaze. Every bite is a perfect mix of savory beef, smoky seasoning, and creamy, buttery potatoes.

Whether you’re cooking for Sunday dinner, meal prep, or a cozy night in, this dish delivers pure comfort and satisfaction every single time.

Ingredients

For the Cheesy Meatloaf:

  • 1 ½ lbs (700g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian)

  • 1 small onion, finely diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 large eggs

  • ½ cup milk

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)

  • 2 tablespoons ketchup

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For the Meatloaf Glaze:

  • ¼ cup ketchup

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon or yellow mustard

  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

For the Creamy Mashed Potatoes:

  • 2 lbs (900g) russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed

  • 4 tablespoons butter

  • ½ cup milk (or heavy cream for richer texture)

  • ¼ cup sour cream or cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparation Steps

This meal comes together easily in under an hour. You’ll prepare the meatloaf first, then make the mashed potatoes while it bakes.

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.

  3. Mix gently using your hands or a spoon until just combined — don’t overmix or the meatloaf will become dense.

  4. Add shredded cheese and gently fold it into the mixture.

Tip: Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged — it melts better and gives a creamier texture.

Step 2: Shape and Fill the Meatloaf

  1. Place half of the meat mixture into the loaf pan and press it down evenly.

  2. Sprinkle a layer of cheese in the center (about ½ cup).

  3. Top with the remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges so the cheese stays inside.

  4. Smooth the top and set aside while you make the glaze.

Optional: Add a few slices of cooked bacon on top before baking for extra smoky flavor.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

  1. In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.

  2. Brush half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Reserve the rest for later.

This glaze gives your meatloaf that irresistible glossy, sweet, and tangy finish.

Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf

  1. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

  2. Halfway through baking, brush with the remaining glaze.

  3. During the last 5 minutes, sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top for a bubbly, melted finish.

  4. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing — this keeps it juicy and flavorful.

Place a baking sheet under your loaf pan to catch any drips while baking.

Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Mashed Potatoes

  1. While the meatloaf bakes, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

  2. Add the cubed potatoes and cook for 15–20 minutes or until fork-tender.

  3. Drain well and return to the pot.

  4. Add butter, milk, sour cream (or cream cheese), and mash until smooth and creamy.

  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Extra Creamy Trick: Warm the milk before adding — it blends better and keeps the potatoes fluffy.

Step 6: Serve

Slice the cheesy meatloaf into thick pieces and serve it alongside a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes.
Drizzle a bit of glaze or pan juices over the top, sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives, and serve warm.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Cheesy Meatloaf with Creamy Mashed Potatoes with one or more of these sides for a complete comfort dinner:

  • Roasted green beans with garlic

  • Buttered corn or peas

  • Steamed broccoli

  • A crisp garden salad

  • Homemade dinner rolls

For a special touch, drizzle extra cheese sauce or gravy over the mashed potatoes.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To Store:

  • Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

To Reheat:

  • Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave for 1–2 minutes.

  • For best texture, cover with foil or a damp paper towel while reheating.

To Freeze:

  • Wrap cooked meatloaf tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.

  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as directed above.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Meatloaf

  1. Use a mix of beef and pork for richer flavor. (50/50 ratio works great.)

  2. Don’t overmix the meat — this makes it tough.

  3. Let it rest after baking so juices redistribute evenly.

  4. Add veggies like grated carrots or zucchini for moisture and nutrition.

  5. For extra indulgence: Add a layer of mashed potatoes on top of the baked meatloaf and broil for 2–3 minutes until golden — a “Shepherd’s Pie-style” twist!

Variations

  • Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf: Use sharp cheddar for a bold, tangy flavor.

  • BBQ Meatloaf: Replace ketchup with BBQ sauce in the glaze for a smoky sweetness.

  • Italian Style: Add shredded mozzarella and marinara sauce instead of ketchup and cheddar.

  • Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.

  • Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or chili flakes for a little heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make the meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it up to the baking stage, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake the next day when ready to serve.

Q2: How do I keep my meatloaf from falling apart?
Make sure to include enough binders like eggs and breadcrumbs, and let it rest before slicing.

Q3: What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend — all melt beautifully.

Q4: Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, but for the best flavor and texture, homemade mashed potatoes make a big difference.

Q5: My meatloaf seems dry — what went wrong?
Overbaking is the most common reason. Use a meat thermometer and remove at 160°F to keep it juicy.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per Serving)

  • Calories: 540

  • Protein: 32g

  • Carbohydrates: 28g

  • Fat: 33g

  • Sodium: 710mg

  • Fiber: 2g

(Values vary based on ingredients and portion size.)

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Meatloaf with Creamy Mashed Potatoes is the perfect combination of classic comfort and cheesy indulgence. The meatloaf is tender, flavorful, and full of melty cheese, while the mashed potatoes are buttery smooth — together they create the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table.

It’s hearty enough for a weekend dinner yet simple enough for weeknights. Whether you serve it with vegetables, gravy, or just by itself, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.

Once you try it, you’ll never go back to plain meatloaf again — this cheesy version is simply irresistible.