Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese (Print Version)

A hearty meatloaf casserole topped with creamy mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions.

# Ingredients:

For the meatloaf base

01 - 1 1/2 lb (680 g) lean ground beef
02 - 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 3/4 cup (75 g) plain breadcrumbs
05 - 1 large egg
06 - 1/3 cup (80 ml) milk
07 - 2 tablespoons ketchup
08 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
09 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
10 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the mashed potato topping

11 - 2 1/2 lb (1.1 kg) russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
12 - 4 tablespoons (55 g) unsalted butter
13 - 1/2 cup (120 g) sour cream
14 - 1/3 cup (80 ml) warm milk, plus more if needed
15 - 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
16 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For finishing

17 - 1 1/2 cups (170 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
18 - 5 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
19 - 2 green onions, thinly sliced

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a thin coat of oil.
02 - In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
03 - Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the center reaches 160°F. Carefully spoon off excess fat if needed.
04 - While the meatloaf bakes, place the potatoes in a pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 12-15 minutes, until fork-tender.
05 - Drain the potatoes well and return them to the hot pot for 1 minute. Mash with butter, sour cream, warm milk, salt, and pepper until thick and creamy.
06 - Spread the mashed potatoes over the baked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle evenly with cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
07 - Return the dish to the oven for 12-15 minutes, until hot and melted. Broil for 1-2 minutes if you want more browning. Rest for 10 minutes, then top with green onions and serve.

# Notes:

01 - Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
02 - Use an instant-read thermometer to check the center of the beef layer.
03 - Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.