Enjoy this delicious, comforting dish — yummy!

Classic Meatloaf with Roasted Potatoes

Introduction

Classic Meatloaf with Roasted Potatoes is the kind of meal that makes any dinner table feel warm and inviting. With tender, seasoned beef baked to perfection and paired with crispy, golden potatoes, this dish is a nostalgic favorite that brings simplicity and comfort to every bite.

Origin

Meatloaf traces its roots to European cuisine, particularly Germany and Scandinavia, where ground meat dishes were blended with bread, spices, and eggs. It became popular in the United States around the Great Depression due to its affordability and ability to stretch meat with fillers.

Cultural Significance

In American households, meatloaf is considered the ultimate comfort food — familiar, hearty, and customizable. It’s a go-to Sunday dinner, a cozy weeknight meal, and a recipe that many families pass down through generations.

Ingredients (with Quantities)

For the Meatloaf

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80/20 ideal)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

For the Glaze

• 1/3 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

For the Roasted Potatoes

• 1 1/2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Additions

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella in the meat mixture
• 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
• Dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist
• Swap breadcrumbs for crushed Ritz crackers for extra tenderness
• Add diced bell peppers for sweetness and color

Tips for Success

• Don’t overmix the meat — it can make the meatloaf tough.
• Let the meatloaf rest 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
• Use a meat thermometer and cook until it reaches 160°F (71°C).
• For extra moisture, place a small pan of water on the oven’s lower rack.
• Toss potatoes evenly so they roast instead of steam.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatloaf

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk; let soak for 2–3 minutes.
3. Add ground beef, onions, garlic, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.
4. Mix gently until just combined.
5. Shape into a loaf on a baking sheet or place in a loaf pan.

2. Add the Glaze

6. Whisk ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon.
7. Spread evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

3. Prepare the Potatoes

8. Toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
9. Spread around the meatloaf on the same pan or roast on a separate sheet.

4. Bake

10. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches 160°F internally and potatoes are golden.
11. Let meatloaf rest before slicing.

Description

This dish delivers a perfect balance: a tender, flavorful meatloaf with a sweet-savory glaze and crispy roasted potatoes that soak up all the herbs and seasonings. Each slice is moist and satisfying, while the potatoes provide the ideal rustic companion. Comfort food at its finest.

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving, 1/6 recipe)

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 26g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 8g

(Values vary with ingredient choices.)

Conclusion

Classic Meatloaf with Roasted Potatoes remains a timeless dinner that never disappoints. It’s filling, flavorful, and easy to personalize. Whether you’re feeding guests or enjoying a quiet night at home, this meal delivers both comfort and satisfaction.

Recommendation

Serve with green beans, steamed broccoli, or a crisp garden salad for a balanced plate. Leftovers make excellent sandwiches the next day!

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

This dish proves you can enjoy rich, nostalgic flavors while still making mindful choices. Using leaner beef, reducing glaze sugar, or adding extra vegetables are simple ways to boost nutrition while keeping the meal indulgently delicious.