Hearty Meatloaf with Creamy Mashed Potatoes and Rich Gravy Recipe

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Here’s a delicious recipe for Meatloaf with Special Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, inspired by traditional American cuisine. This dish combines the hearty flavors of meatloaf with the creamy texture of mashed potatoes, all smothered in a rich gravy. Perfect for a comforting family dinner.

Meatloaf with Special Mashed Potatoes and Gravy Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

  • 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 egg
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup dried bread crumbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons prepared mustard
  • 1/3 cup ketchup

For the Special Mashed Potatoes:

  • 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped

For the Gravy:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps:

  1. Meatloaf:
    1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
    2. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, egg, onion, milk, and bread crumbs. Season with salt and pepper.
    3. Place the mixture into a lightly greased loaf pan.
    4. In a separate small bowl, combine the brown sugar, mustard, and ketchup. Mix well and pour over the meatloaf.
    5. Bake for 1 hour or until juices are clear.
  2. Special Mashed Potatoes:
    1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add potatoes and cook until tender but still firm, about 15 minutes; drain.
    2. In a small saucepan, heat butter and milk over low heat until butter is melted. Using a potato masher or electric beater, slowly blend milk mixture into potatoes until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in chopped chives.
  3. Gravy:
    1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and whisk until smooth.
    2. Gradually whisk in beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.

Historical Context:

Meatloaf is a dish with European origins that became popular in the United States during the 19th century. It’s a versatile recipe that allows for various adaptations, making it a staple in American households. Mashed potatoes, a classic side, have been paired with meatloaf to create a comforting meal, especially during the colder months.

Nutritional Information:

This meal is rich in protein from the beef, providing essential amino acids necessary for body repair and maintenance. Potatoes offer carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins, particularly Vitamin C and potassium. However, moderation is key due to the dish’s high-calorie content, primarily from fats in the meat and butter.

Conclusion:

Serve this hearty meatloaf with a side of special mashed potatoes and gravy for a classic comfort meal that’s sure to please the whole family. It’s a perfect dish for gatherings or a cozy night in. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction it brings to your dinner table.

A rustic and inviting kitchen scene sets the stage for a freshly baked meatloaf, resting on a wooden cutting board that exudes warmth and homey charm. Beside it, a pot of creamy mashed potatoes beckons, its top sprinkled with vibrant chives for a pop of color and freshness. Nearby, a homemade gravy jug, brimming with rich, savory gravy, stands ready to enhance the dish with its luscious flavor. The background of this culinary tableau features a warmly lit kitchen, where vintage cooking utensils hint at generations of family meals prepared in this heart of the home. A window opens to a serene garden view, suggesting a connection between the kitchen's bounty and the natural world outside. This image encapsulates the timeless tradition of family dinners, celebrating the simple yet profound joy of sharing a home-cooked meal.