Can I freeze meatloaf with mashed potatoes and cheese for later?

Yes — you can absolutely freeze this dish. Once it has cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. Cooked versions retain the best flavor up to about 4 months in the freezer.

What cheese is best for topping a mashed-potato-and-meatloaf combo?

Sharp cheddar or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella work great because they melt nicely and add that gooey texture. You could also use a mild Parmesan for added flavor without making it too heavy.

How do I keep the mashed-potato layer from getting soggy in the casserole?

Make sure to drain the potatoes very well after boiling, and spread them while warm over the cooked meat base. Bake then broil for a few minutes to help the topping set and avoid sogginess.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time and just heat it when needed?

Absolutely — you can assemble the meatloaf base, prepare the mashed potatoes and layer everything in the baking dish ahead of time. Then cover, refrigerate and bake when you’re ready for dinner; flavors may even deepen overnight.

Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese – 5 Irresistible Layers of Comfort

Name: Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs ground beef (85% lean); 1 small onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg, lightly beaten; ¼ cup ketchup; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; 2 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and chopped; 3 tablespoons butter; ½ cup warm milk; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Description

A hearty American comfort dish combining juicy seasoned meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, and melted cheese for a warm, satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ lbs ground beef (85% lean)
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 egg, lightly beaten
¼ cup ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
2 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
½ cup milk (warm)
3 tablespoons butter
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F.
Mix ground beef with onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and spices until combined.
Press mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for 35 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Boil potatoes for 15–18 minutes until tender, then mash with butter, milk, and seasoning.
Spread mashed potatoes evenly over baked meatloaf and top with shredded cheese.
Return to oven for 15–20 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
Broil for 2–3 minutes for a crisp top and let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Drain excess fat from meatloaf before adding mashed potatoes.
Use lean ground turkey for a lighter version.
For extra texture, mix cheddar and mozzarella for topping.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 520
Sugar: 4
Sodium: 780
Fat: 29
Saturated Fat: 14
Unsaturated Fat: 13
Trans Fat: 0.5
Carbohydrates: 32
Fiber: 3
Protein: 36
Cholesterol: 145