Juicy, savory meatloaf layered with creamy mashed potatoes and bubbling melted cheese—this is pure comfort food on a plate. This Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Each bite delivers tender beef seasoned to perfection, the silkiness of buttery potatoes, and a golden cheese crust that pulls it all together like a warm hug.

This dish is perfect for cozy weeknights or holiday potlucks, but it’s also the kind of meal that earns you compliments at Sunday dinner. It bakes up beautifully as a layered casserole, making it ideal for serving a crowd or meal prepping for a busy week. Whether you’re craving hearty and wholesome or creamy and cheesy, this meatloaf mash-up checks every box.

What Kind of Meat Should I Use for Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese?

You’ll get the juiciest, most flavorful results using a mix of ground beef with at least 15% fat. Lean beef works, but the extra fat adds that rich flavor and moisture that makes meatloaf irresistible. You can also mix in a bit of ground pork or veal for an even more tender bite.

Ingredients for the Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese

Ground Beef: The heart of the meatloaf, it delivers protein and savory depth.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the loaf while keeping it tender.
Milk: Moistens the breadcrumbs and adds richness.
Eggs: Essential for binding everything together.
Onion and Garlic: Aromatics that add a deep flavor foundation.
Worcestershire Sauce: Adds that irresistible umami punch.
Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and creamy, they form the perfect layer over the meat.
Cheddar Cheese: Melts to a golden crust and gives every bite a gooey, sharp finish.
Ketchup or BBQ Sauce (optional topping): Sweet and tangy glaze to finish things off.
Salt & Pepper: Because no dish is complete without them!

How To Make the Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined—don’t overmix or the meatloaf can turn dense.

Step 3: Shape and Bake

Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, shaping it into a flat rectangle. Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 4: Add the Mashed Potatoes

While the meatloaf bakes, prepare your mashed potatoes. You can use homemade or store-bought—just make sure they’re creamy and smooth. Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and carefully spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top.

Step 5: Layer with Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the mashed potato layer. For extra color and flavor, drizzle a bit of ketchup or BBQ sauce on top.

Step 6: Broil Until Golden

Place the dish back into the oven and broil on high for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps everything hold together when serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped chives if desired.

How to Serve and Store Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese

This dish is best served warm, straight out of the oven while the cheese is still melty and golden. For a complete meal, pair it with a crisp green salad, roasted green beans, or glazed carrots. A drizzle of brown gravy over the top is also a great addition for those who love extra richness.

For storing leftovers, let the meatloaf cool completely, then cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, use the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual slices in short bursts.

This recipe also freezes well. Wrap slices in plastic wrap, then foil, and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of potatoes are best for mashed potatoes?

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best. They yield a smooth and fluffy mash, perfect for layering on top of the meatloaf.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the entire dish a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for 20 minutes, then bake and broil as instructed.

How do I keep the meatloaf from drying out?

Don’t skip the milk and eggs—they add moisture. Also, avoid overbaking. Using a meat thermometer helps ensure it’s cooked perfectly without drying.

Can I use other cheeses?

Absolutely. Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can try mozzarella for stretch, gouda for richness, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.

Is it gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers. Always double-check labels on your sauces and seasonings too.

What sauce goes best with this dish?

Classic ketchup glaze is always a hit, but BBQ sauce adds smoky depth, and a light brown gravy takes it to another level.

Want More Dinner Ideas with a Twist?

If you enjoyed this Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese, you’ll definitely want to check out these flavorful favorites from the Life with Jam kitchen:

One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for an easy skillet dinner packed with flavor.
Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce if you’re craving baked pasta and bubbling cheese.
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Creamy Mustard Dip for a lighter take on comfort food.
Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo Recipe when you’re in the mood for bold and spicy.
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes for a hands-off hearty option.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s always just a click away: Life with Jam on Pinterest

Tried it? Let me know in the comments below! Did you go classic with cheddar or try a spicy cheese twist? Maybe added a gravy layer? I’d love to hear how you made it your own—and help answer any questions you may have too.