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Comfort food has a unique power to evoke nostalgia and warmth, often transporting us back to cherished moments shared with family and friends. The essence of comfort food lies not just in its flavor but in the memories and emotions it cultivates. Among the many dishes that embody this genre, meatloaf stands out as a quintessential staple. Paired with creamy mashed potatoes, this meal represents the heart of home cooking, offering both sustenance and satisfaction.

Homestyle Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

Discover the heartwarming charm of classic meatloaf paired with creamy mashed potatoes. This recipe guides you through every step to create a comforting dish that evokes nostalgia and warmth. Learn about the key ingredients, historical significance, and variations from around the world. Enjoy tips on achieving the perfect texture and flavor, ensuring your family cherishes this timeless favorite for generations. Bring the heart of home cooking to your dinner table!
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Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf:

1 ½ lbs ground beef (preferably 80/20 blend for optimal flavor)

1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

¼ cup milk

2 large eggs

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon ketchup (plus extra for topping)

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

1 teaspoon dried thyme

For the Mashed Potatoes:

2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes

½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature

½ cup heavy cream (more if you prefer extra creaminess)

Salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste

Fresh chives, chopped (for optional garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Gently mix until the ingredients are just combined—avoid overmixing, as this can lead to a dense meatloaf.

      Shape and Bake the Meatloaf: Transfer the blended meat mixture into a loaf pan, or shape it free-form on a parchment-lined baking sheet for a rustic look. Spread a layer of ketchup on top to enhance the flavor. Place in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the internal temperature registers at 160°F (70°C).

        Cook the Mashed Potatoes: While the meatloaf is in the oven, place the cubed potatoes in a large pot filled with salted water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender—this typically takes around 15-20 minutes. Once done, drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.

          Mash the Potatoes: To the drained potatoes, add the room temperature butter and heavy cream. Use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash until the potatoes are smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning by adding salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste.

            Finish and Serve: After the meatloaf is cooked, allow it to rest for 10 minutes to retain its juices, and then slice. Plate generous portions of the meatloaf alongside the creamy mashed potatoes. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped chives for a pop of color and flavor.

              Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: 6

                Presentation Tips: Serve the dish on a large platter, with the meatloaf slices slightly overlapping the mashed potatoes. Drizzle any remaining ketchup around the plate for a vibrant touch.