Classic Meatloaf & Mashed Potatoes

Featured in: Fried Classics

This traditional homestyle dish features a savory blend of ground beef and pork, seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, then glazed for a flavorful finish. Paired with velvety mashed potatoes made rich with butter and sour cream, it's an ideal comfort meal. Simple preparation and baking yield a satisfying main dish perfect for any weeknight dinner, offering nourishing flavors and hearty satisfaction.

Updated on Thu, 13 Nov 2025 15:57:00 GMT
Juicy Classic Meatloaf & Mashed Potatoes, steaming hot and ready for a satisfying family dinner. Save
Juicy Classic Meatloaf & Mashed Potatoes, steaming hot and ready for a satisfying family dinner. | fryzia.com

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 still remember the first time I served this meatloaf and mashed potatoes combination for Sunday dinner: everyone went back for seconds and the table was filled with laughter. It quickly became a staple comfort meal in our home.

Ingredients

  • Ground beef (1 ½ lbs/680 g, 80/20 blend recommended): Provides a juicy, flavorful base for the meatloaf.
  • Ground pork (½ lb/225 g): Adds richness and tender texture.
  • Breadcrumbs (1 cup/100 g): Binds the ingredients and helps keep meatloaf moist.
  • Onion (1 medium, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and flavor.
  • Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings aromatic depth.
  • Eggs (2 large): Bind the mixture together.
  • Whole milk (½ cup/120 ml): Moistens the loaf.
  • Ketchup (⅓ cup/80 ml for meatloaf + ½ cup/120 ml for glaze): Adds tangy flavor and a shiny glaze.
  • Worcestershire sauce (2 tbsp): Gives savory, umami notes.
  • Dijon mustard (2 tsp for meatloaf + 1 tbsp for glaze): Adds a bit of zing.
  • Salt (1 ½ tsp for meatloaf + 1 ½ tsp for mashed potatoes + 1 tsp for boiling potatoes): Essential for balancing flavors.
  • Black pepper (1 tsp for meatloaf + ½ tsp for mashed potatoes): For subtle heat.
  • Dried thyme (1 tsp): Offers herbal aroma.
  • Brown sugar (2 tbsp for glaze): Sweetens the glaze.
  • Apple cider vinegar (1 tbsp): Balances sweetness in the glaze.
  • Russet potatoes (2 ½ lbs/1.1 kg, peeled and cut into chunks): Ideal for creamy mashed potatoes.
  • Whole milk (½ cup/120 ml, warmed for mashed potatoes): Adds creaminess.
  • Unsalted butter (¼ cup/60 g): Provides richness in mashed potatoes.
  • Sour cream (½ cup/120 ml): Makes mashed potatoes extra smooth and tangy.

Instructions

Prepare for baking:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
Mix the meatloaf:
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix gently until just combined (do not overmix).
Shape and glaze:
Form the mixture into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet or press into loaf pan.
Mix the glaze:
In a small bowl, stir together ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar for the glaze. Spread half the glaze over meatloaf.
Bake meatloaf:
Bake for 40 minutes. Remove from oven, spread remaining glaze over top, and bake an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) is reached.
Prepare potatoes:
While meatloaf bakes, place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add 1 tsp salt. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook until potatoes are very tender, about 18 to 20 minutes.
Mash potatoes:
Drain potatoes well and return to pot. Add warm milk, butter, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
Serve:
Let meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with mashed potatoes.
Golden-glazed Classic Meatloaf next to fluffy mashed potatoes, perfect for a cozy American meal. Save
Golden-glazed Classic Meatloaf next to fluffy mashed potatoes, perfect for a cozy American meal. | fryzia.com

This meal has turned into a family favorite whenever we gather for birthdays or holidays. There's a certain joy in sharing comfort food that brings everyone together at the table.

Storage & Leftovers

Store leftover meatloaf and mashed potatoes in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

Round out the meal with steamed green beans or roasted carrots for a colorful plate. Pair with a medium-bodied red wine for an extra special touch.

Customization Ideas

Try adding chopped fresh parsley to the potatoes or substitute ground turkey for a lighter version. You can also experiment with different herbs in the meatloaf mixture for unique flavors.

A generous slice of flavorful Classic Meatloaf atop creamy, homemade mashed potatoes, a comforting classic. Save
A generous slice of flavorful Classic Meatloaf atop creamy, homemade mashed potatoes, a comforting classic. | fryzia.com

Classic meatloaf with mashed potatoes is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Enjoy every bite and feel free to personalize this recipe to make it your own!

Recipe FAQ Section

What type of meat is used in the meatloaf?

Ground beef and ground pork are combined to create a juicy and flavorful meat base.

How is the meatloaf glaze prepared?

The glaze is a mix of ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar for a balanced tangy sweetness.

What makes mashed potatoes creamy in this dish?

Warm whole milk, unsalted butter, and sour cream are incorporated to achieve a smooth, creamy texture.

Can I substitute the meats used in the loaf?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can replace beef and pork for a lighter alternative.

How should the meatloaf be cooked for best results?

Bake at 350°F, applying glaze halfway through cooking, until internal temperature reaches 160°F, ensuring moistness.

Are there suggested additions for enhanced flavor?

Fresh chopped parsley added to the mashed potatoes adds brightness and depth.

Classic Meatloaf & Mashed Potatoes

Juicy meatloaf paired with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting family meal.

Prep duration
25 min
Cook duration
75 min
Complete duration
100 min
Created by Samantha Rivera

Classification Fried Classics

Complexity Level Easy

Heritage American

Output 6 Portion Count

Dietary considerations None specified

Components

Meatloaf

01 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend preferred)
02 0.5 lbs ground pork
03 1 cup breadcrumbs
04 1 medium onion, finely chopped
05 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 2 large eggs
07 0.5 cup whole milk
08 0.33 cup ketchup
09 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
10 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
11 1.5 teaspoons salt
12 1 teaspoon black pepper
13 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Meatloaf Glaze

01 0.5 cup ketchup
02 2 tablespoons brown sugar
03 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
04 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Mashed Potatoes

01 2.5 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and chunked
02 0.5 cup whole milk, warmed
03 0.25 cup unsalted butter
04 0.5 cup sour cream
05 1.5 teaspoons salt
06 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

Preparation Steps

Phase 01

Prepare oven and pan: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease a loaf pan.

Phase 02

Combine meatloaf ingredients: Mix ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and thyme in a large bowl. Stir gently until just combined to avoid toughening.

Phase 03

Shape and apply glaze: Form mixture into a loaf on the prepared pan. Combine glaze ingredients in a small bowl and spread half over the shaped meatloaf.

Phase 04

Bake meatloaf with initial glaze: Bake 40 minutes at 350°F. Remove from oven, apply remaining glaze, then continue baking 20 to 25 minutes more until internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Phase 05

Cook potatoes: While meatloaf bakes, place potatoes in a pot with cold water and 1 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 18 to 20 minutes until tender.

Phase 06

Mash potatoes: Drain potatoes and return to pot. Add warm milk, butter, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.

Phase 07

Rest and serve: Allow meatloaf to rest 10 minutes before slicing. Serve alongside mashed potatoes.

Necessary tools

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Loaf pan or baking sheet
  • Saucepan or pot
  • Potato masher or ricer
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergy information

Review all ingredients for potential allergens and consult with healthcare providers if you're uncertain about any item.
  • Contains eggs, dairy, gluten (breadcrumbs), and mustard
  • May contain soy from Worcestershire sauce

Nutrient breakdown (per portion)

These values are approximate and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy Value: 480
  • Fat: 23 g
  • Carbohydrates: 37 g
  • Protein Content: 29 g