Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes with Gravy

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Here’s a rich, comforting, and detailed version of your Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes with Gravy—perfect for a hearty homemade meal 🍽️

🍖 Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes with Gravy

📝 Introduction

Few meals bring as much comfort and nostalgia as a classic meatloaf served with creamy mashed potatoes and rich gravy. This dish has been a staple in homes for generations, offering warmth, simplicity, and incredible flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or just craving something satisfying, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and hearty goodness.

🧾 Ingredients

🥩 For the Meatloaf:

  • 1½ lbs ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup onion, finely chopped
  • ½ cup milk
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried parsley

🥔 For the Mashed Potatoes:

  • 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and chopped
  • ½ cup milk (warm)
  • ¼ cup butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste

🍲 For the Gravy:

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, milk, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and parsley.
  3. Mix gently (don’t overwork it to keep it tender).
  4. Shape into a loaf and place in a baking dish or loaf pan.

Step 2: Bake

  • Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until fully cooked (internal temp: 160°F / 70°C).
  • Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Make Mashed Potatoes

  1. Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (15–20 minutes).
  2. Drain and mash until smooth.
  3. Add butter and warm milk.
  4. Season with salt and pepper, then mix until creamy.

Step 4: Prepare the Gravy

  1. Melt butter in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes.
  3. Gradually whisk in beef broth.
  4. Cook until thickened, then season to taste.

🍳 Methods & Cooking Tips

  • Don’t overmix the meat: This keeps your meatloaf juicy and tender.
  • Use warm milk for potatoes: It blends smoother and keeps texture creamy.
  • Let meatloaf rest: Helps retain juices when slicing.
  • Whisk gravy constantly: Prevents lumps and ensures a silky finish.

📜 History of the Dish

Meatloaf dates back to ancient Europe, but it became especially popular in the United States during the Great Depression as an affordable way to stretch meat using fillers like breadcrumbs. Mashed potatoes have been a beloved side since the 18th century, originally popularized in Europe. Together, they evolved into one of the most iconic comfort food pairings.

🍽️ Formation (Plating & Serving)

  • Slice the meatloaf into thick pieces.
  • Serve alongside a generous scoop of mashed potatoes.
  • Pour warm gravy over both.
  • Garnish with parsley for a fresh touch.

Optional sides: green beans, roasted carrots, or a fresh salad 🥗

❤️ Lovers of This Dish

This meal is loved by:

  • Families craving comfort food
  • Home cooks looking for easy, satisfying meals
  • Kids and adults alike (it’s a crowd-pleaser!)
  • Anyone who enjoys classic, hearty flavors

🔁 Methods Variations

  • Cheesy Meatloaf: Add shredded cheese inside the loaf
  • Healthy Version: Use ground turkey instead of beef
  • Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add roasted garlic for extra flavor
  • Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or hot sauce

✅ Conclusion

Meatloaf with mashed potatoes and gravy is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting experience that brings people together. Easy to make, deeply satisfying, and endlessly customizable, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

If you want, I can customize this recipe for you—maybe a super soft version like your cloud cake texture style or even a quick one-pan version 😄

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