Q1: What is the absolute, number one secret to a moist and tender, not dry and tough, meatloaf?

The secret is a "panade," which is a simple mixture of a starch (like the breadcrumbs in this recipe) and a liquid (like the milk). When you mix this paste into your ground meat, it helps to keep the meatloaf incredibly moist and tender as it cooks. The second secret is to not overmix the meat!

Q2: Can I make this casserole ahead of time for a party?

Yes, this is a perfect make-ahead meal! You can fully assemble the entire unbaked casserole, cover it tightly, and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours . When your party starts, you can simply pop it in the oven to bake (you may need to add 10-15 minutes to the baking time, as it will be starting from cold).

Q3: Can I freeze this meatloaf casserole?

Yes, this is a fantastic freezer meal! You can freeze it either baked or unbaked . Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap the dish very well in a double layer of plastic wrap and then a layer of foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake (or reheat) it.

Q4: What are the best kind of potatoes to use for the mashed potato topping?

For the absolute fluffiest, creamiest mashed potatoes, a high-starch potato like a Russet potato is a fantastic choice. A more buttery and naturally creamy Yukon Gold potato is also a wonderful option.

Q5: What is the best way to get beautiful, clean slices of the casserole?

The secret is to let the finished casserole rest for at least 10 minutes after it comes out of the oven. This crucial resting period allows the hot, molten layers of meat, potatoes, and cheese to set up, which is the key that will allow you to get beautiful, clean, and impressive slices that don't fall apart.

Meatloaf and Mashed Potato Casserole

A comforting and hearty casserole that combines two classic comfort foods: meatloaf and mashed potatoes. This dish features a simple, savory meatloaf layer made with ground beef and seasonings, which is pressed into a baking dish and par-baked. The meatloaf is then topped with a creamy layer of mashed potatoes enriched with sour cream and butter, and a final generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese. The entire casserole is baked again until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Author: Grace

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf Layer:
1 lb ground beef (85/15)
1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
1/3 cup milk
1 large egg
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Mashed Potato Layer:
3 cups prepared mashed potatoes (leftover or store-bought)
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tbsp butter
Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
Make the Meatloaf Layer: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes.
Prepare the Topping: While the meatloaf is baking, warm the mashed potatoes in a bowl and stir in the sour cream and butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble and Bake Again: Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and spread the mashed potatoes in an even layer over the baked meatloaf.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the potatoes.
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley, slicing, and serving.

Notes

This is a great recipe for using up leftover mashed potatoes.
When making the meatloaf, be careful not to overmix the ingredients, as this can result in a tough texture.
Letting the finished casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing is a key step that helps the layers to set, making it easier to serve clean slices.

Find it online: https://www.eatswithsoul.com/meatloaf-and-mashed-potato/