Few meals bring the same sense of warmth and nostalgia as cheesy meatloaf served with creamy mashed potatoes. This timeless comfort dish has graced dinner tables for generations, offering hearty flavors, simple ingredients, and soul-satisfying goodness. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or simply craving a cozy homemade meal, this cheesy meatloaf with mashed potatoes delivers on every level.
What sets this version apart is the gooey melted cheese tucked inside the meatloaf, creating a savory surprise in every slice. Paired with fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes, it’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug on a plate.
Why This Cheesy Meatloaf Recipe Works
Traditional meatloaf can sometimes be dry or bland, but this recipe solves both problems. The combination of ground meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, and cheese keeps the loaf moist and tender. A flavorful glaze caramelizes on top while baking, adding a slightly sweet and tangy finish that perfectly balances the savory interior.
The mashed potatoes are smooth, rich, and creamy—ideal for soaking up every drop of sauce and melted cheese. Together, these two classics form a complete, satisfying meal that never goes out of style.
Ingredients for Cheesy Meatloaf
For the Meatloaf:
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1½ pounds ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
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1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
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2 large eggs
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1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
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½ cup milk
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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½ cup ketchup
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2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Glaze:
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½ cup ketchup
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2 tablespoons brown sugar
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1 tablespoon mustard
Ingredients for Mashed Potatoes
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2 pounds potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
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½ cup milk or cream
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4 tablespoons butter
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Salt to taste
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Optional: garlic, sour cream, or cream cheese for extra richness
How to Make Cheesy Meatloaf
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently until just combined—overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.
Fold in half of the shredded cheese, saving the rest for the center or topping.
Step 2: Shape and Fill
Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Press half of the meat mixture into the pan, creating a small indentation down the center. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the middle, then cover with the rest of the meat mixture, sealing the edges.
Step 3: Add the Glaze
Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl. Spread generously over the top of the meatloaf.
Step 4: Bake
Bake uncovered for 55–65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing—this helps it hold together and keeps it juicy.
How to Make Perfect Mashed Potatoes
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Peel and cut potatoes into even chunks. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold salted water, and bring to a boil. Cook for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender.
Step 2: Mash and Season
Drain well and return potatoes to the hot pot. Add butter and let it melt. Mash until smooth, then gradually add warm milk or cream. Season with salt to taste.
For extra flavor, mix in roasted garlic, sour cream, or cream cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve thick slices of cheesy meatloaf over a bed of mashed potatoes, spooning extra glaze or pan juices on top. Add a simple green vegetable like steamed broccoli, green beans, or a fresh salad to balance the richness.
This dish is perfect for:
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Family dinners
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Meal prep and leftovers
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Sunday comfort meals
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Cold weather cravings
Storage and Leftovers
Cheesy meatloaf stores beautifully. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Mashed potatoes can be reheated with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. The meatloaf also freezes well—wrap slices individually for easy future meals.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes is more than just a recipe—it’s a reminder of home-cooked comfort and simple pleasures. With its juicy, cheese-filled center and velvety mashed potatoes, this dish satisfies both the stomach and the soul. Easy to prepare and endlessly comforting, it’s a meal you’ll come back to again and again.
