Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 large Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Preparation and Potato Boil – Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or a rimmed baking sheet. Place your peeled and cubed potatoes into a large pot of salted water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain them well and set them aside for mashing later.
- Step 2: Mixing the Meatloaf – In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, diced onion, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Avoid overworking the meat, as this can make the loaf tough. Shape the mixture into a uniform loaf and place it in your prepared pan or on the baking sheet.
- Step 3: Initial Baking – Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes. This initial bake allows the meat to cook through and firm up before you add the heavy potato topping. While the meatloaf is in the oven, mash your cooked potatoes with butter and milk until smooth. Stir in half a cup of the shredded cheese for extra richness.
- Step 4: Layering the Potatoes and Cheese – Carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven. If there is excess fat in the pan, carefully drain it away. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top of the meatloaf, spreading them evenly to the edges. Sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese generously over the potato layer.
- Step 5: Final Bake and Plating – Return the meatloaf to the oven for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. The cheese should be bubbly and slightly golden, and the internal temperature of the meat should reach 160°F (71°C). Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period ensures the juices redistribute and the layers stay intact. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
- Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes