Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
Meatloaf and mashed potatoes with gravy is one of the most beloved comfort meals in American home cooking.
This hearty dish combines tender, seasoned ground beef baked to perfection, fluffy mashed potatoes whipped until creamy, and rich savory gravy poured generously over the top. It is simple, satisfying, and deeply nostalgic.
For generations, families have gathered around the table to enjoy meatloaf dinners. It’s a meal that feels both humble and special — affordable enough for everyday cooking, yet comforting enough to serve for Sunday dinner.
The combination of juicy meat, smooth potatoes, and warm gravy creates a balanced plate that is filling and flavorful without being complicated.
This recipe focuses on classic flavors. Ground beef is mixed with breadcrumbs, egg, milk, and finely chopped onion to create a moist, tender loaf.
The mashed potatoes are creamy and buttery, providing the perfect base for the savory gravy. Together, they create a complete meal that satisfies every craving for warmth and comfort.
Whether you are cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a traditional homemade dinner, this recipe delivers dependable results every time.
Introduction
There is something timeless about meatloaf and mashed potatoes with gravy. It represents home cooking at its best — straightforward ingredients transformed into something hearty and deeply satisfying.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a meal that feels complete and comforting.
Meatloaf became especially popular during the early and mid-20th century as an economical way to stretch ground meat.
Breadcrumbs and milk were added not only to extend the meat but also to improve texture and moisture. Over time, this practical dish evolved into a household favorite that remains popular today.
Mashed potatoes complete the experience. Creamy and smooth, they balance the savory richness of the meat. When topped with warm gravy made from pan drippings or beef stock, every bite becomes soft, flavorful, and cohesive.
This is not a complicated gourmet recipe. It is classic comfort food designed to nourish and satisfy.
Why This Recipe Works
This meatloaf and mashed potatoes with gravy recipe works because it focuses on proper balance and technique rather than unnecessary ingredients.
First, the combination of breadcrumbs, egg, and milk acts as a binder. The egg holds everything together, while the milk and breadcrumbs create tenderness. Without these elements, meatloaf can turn dense or dry. The finely chopped onion adds subtle sweetness and moisture throughout the loaf.
Second, the ratio of ingredients ensures the loaf stays juicy. One pound of ground beef paired with half a cup of breadcrumbs keeps the texture firm yet tender.
Third, mashed potatoes serve as a neutral but creamy base. Properly whipped potatoes absorb gravy beautifully, creating a smooth contrast to the meat’s texture.
Finally, gravy brings everything together. It adds moisture, enhances the savory flavors of the beef, and transforms the plate into a cohesive comfort meal.
Each component complements the others, making the dish greater than the sum of its parts.
What You’ll Need For This Recipe
To prepare meatloaf and mashed potatoes with gravy, you will need simple, accessible ingredients.
For the Meatloaf:
1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
Salt and black pepper (to taste)
For the Mashed Potatoes:
2 pounds potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
1/2 cup milk or cream
3 tablespoons butter
Salt to taste
For the Gravy:
2 tablespoons butter or pan drippings
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients create a full, balanced meal without requiring specialty items. Everything is commonly found in most kitchens.
How To Make This Recipe
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, finely chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Mix gently using your hands or a spoon. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the mashed potatoes. Peel and cube the potatoes. Place them in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain well.
Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or mixer. Add butter and warm milk gradually, mixing until smooth and creamy. Season with salt.
For the gravy, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in beef broth. Cook until thickened, stirring constantly. Season to taste.
Once the meatloaf has rested for 10 minutes, slice and serve alongside mashed potatoes, topped generously with gravy.
Tips + Tricks & More For Recipe Success
Do not overmix the meat mixture. Gentle mixing keeps the loaf tender.
Finely chop the onion to ensure even distribution and avoid large crunchy pieces.
Let the meatloaf rest before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute and prevents crumbling.
Warm the milk before adding it to mashed potatoes. Cold milk can cool the potatoes and create a gluey texture.
For extra flavor, you can sauté the onions before mixing them into the meat.
If you want smoother mashed potatoes, use a potato ricer instead of a masher.
Taste and adjust seasoning at every stage — especially the gravy.
How To Serve
Serve meatloaf slices hot, arranged next to a generous scoop of mashed potatoes. Pour warm gravy over both the meat and potatoes just before serving.
For a balanced plate, consider adding a vegetable such as steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or buttered peas.
This dish is best enjoyed fresh and warm, straight from the oven.
Serving Suggestions
Meatloaf and mashed potatoes pair well with:
Steamed green beans
Roasted Brussels sprouts
Honey-glazed carrots
Fresh garden salad
Dinner rolls
Leftovers can be repurposed into sandwiches the next day. Simply place a slice of meatloaf between toasted bread with a bit of gravy or mustard.
For a family-style dinner, place the meatloaf on a platter and allow guests to serve themselves.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Resting Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes
This makes it ideal for weeknight dinners while still being special enough for weekend meals.
Final Thoughts
Meatloaf and mashed potatoes with gravy remains a classic for a reason. It is affordable, filling, and deeply comforting. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this dish delivers consistent, satisfying results.
When prepared with care and attention to technique, it becomes more than just a basic dinner — it becomes a meal that brings warmth to the table and comfort to everyone who enjoys it.