Introduction
This hearty meatloaf recipe is the perfect combination of flavors that brings comfort to any dinner table. With its savory ground beef filling, seasoned with aromatic onions and garlic, and the delightful addition of cheddar cheese on top, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Accompanying the meatloaf are tender, golden potatoes that complete this homestyle meal, making it impossible to resist.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 kilo ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 cup bread crumbs
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper to taste
4 large potatoes, frozen and finely chopped
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with oil.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, bread crumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared baking dish, shaping it into a loaf in the center. Arrange the frozen, finely chopped potatoes around the meatloaf. Season the potatoes with salt.
4. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
5. Remove the foil, sprinkle grated cheddar cheese over the meat and potatoes, and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the meat is nicely browned.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large bowl, combine 1 kilo of ground beef, 1 finely chopped onion, 2 finely chopped cloves of garlic, 1 cup of bread crumbs, 1/4 cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon of dried thyme, and salt and black pepper to taste. Mix all the ingredients until they are well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared baking dish, shaping it into a loaf in the center. Arrange the 4 large frozen and finely chopped potatoes around the meatloaf. Season the potatoes with salt to enhance their flavor.
Step 4: Bake Covered
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. This will allow the meat to cook through while keeping it moist.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Continue Baking
After 45 minutes, remove the foil. Sprinkle 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese over both the meat and potatoes. Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the meatloaf is nicely browned.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, to add a touch of color and flavor to the dish.
Notes
Note 1: Meat Temperature
Ensure the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches at least 75°C (165°F) for safe consumption.
Note 2: Customization
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite spices or herbs for extra flavor.
Note 3: Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
Note 4: Potato Texture
Using frozen finely chopped potatoes helps save preparation time. If using fresh potatoes, they may need to be partially cooked before adding to the dish.
Cook techniques
Mixing Ingredients
Combine ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, bread crumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Use your hands or a spoon to mix thoroughly for an even texture.
Shaping the Meatloaf
Transfer the combined meat mixture into a baking dish. Shape it into a loaf in the center to allow for even cooking and easy serving.
Baking with Foil
Cover the baking dish with foil while baking to retain moisture and prevent the top from burning before the inside is cooked.
Cheese Topping
After removing the foil, sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top of the meatloaf and surrounding potatoes to create a deliciously melted cheese layer.
Garnishing
Finish the dish by garnishing with chopped fresh parsley for added flavor and visual appeal just before serving.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a mixture of meats, depending on your preference.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
If you do not have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, oats, or ground almonds as alternatives.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and freeze it. Just add the potatoes on baking day and adjust the cooking time if frozen.
What should I serve with this dish?
This hearty meatloaf pairs well with a side of vegetables, a fresh salad, or even some garlic bread.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
Conclusion
This hearty ground beef and potato dish is not only simple to prepare but also provides a comforting meal that the whole family can enjoy. The combination of flavors from the seasoned beef, enriched by cheese and complemented by crispy potatoes, makes it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering. Serving it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a touch of color and freshness, enhancing its overall appeal.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Combine ground beef with a mix of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. Use soy sauce and ginger for flavor, and serve it over rice or noodles for a quick meal.
Shepherd’s Pie
Layer cooked ground beef with mixed vegetables and top with creamy mashed potatoes instead of frozen ones. Bake until golden and bubbling for a comforting classic.
Cheesy Beef and Potato Casserole
Mix ground beef with cream of mushroom soup and layer with sliced potatoes, then top with cheese for a creamy, cheesy twist on the original recipe.
Sloppy Joe Stuffed Peppers
Fill halved bell peppers with a mixture of ground beef, onions, and sloppy joe sauce. Bake and top with cheese for a fun, handheld dinner option.
Meatball Subs
Create meatballs using the ground beef mixture and bake them. Serve inside sub rolls with marinara sauce and cheese for a delicious sandwich experience.
