Cheesy Meatloaf & Mashed Potato Casserole

🧀🥔🍖 Ingredients

For the Mashed Potato Base

• 1 kg (2 lb) potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 3 tbsp butter
• ½ cup milk or cream
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Meatloaf Layer

• 700 g (1½ lb) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

For the Topping

• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp extra ketchup (optional)
• ½ tsp dried herbs (parsley or thyme)

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🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (15–20 minutes).
2. Drain well and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
3. Spread mashed potatoes evenly into a foil-lined baking dish. Set aside.

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Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, ketchup, tomato paste, and seasonings.
2. Mix gently until just combined (do not overmix).

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Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Shape meat mixture into long meatloaf sections or spread evenly over the mashed potatoes.
2. Optional: brush the top with extra ketchup for moisture and flavor.

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Step 4: Bake

1. Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F.
2. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until meat is cooked through.

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Step 5: Add Cheese & Finish

1. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top.
2. Return to oven and bake for 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
3. Sprinkle with dried herbs before serving.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with steamed vegetables or salad
• Perfect for family dinner, meal prep, or potluck
• Tastes even better the next day

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🔥 Pro Tips

• Use ground beef with some fat (80/20) for juicy meatloaf
• Add BBQ sauce instead of ketchup for smoky flavor
• Swap cheddar for mozzarella or Colby Jack
• Add peas or corn into the mashed potatoes for texture