Classic Meatloaf with Roasted Potatoes.

ByDavid Loa

Classic Meatloaf with Roasted Potatoes

 Description

A comforting family-style dinner made with juicy seasoned ground beef, a sweet and tangy ketchup glaze, and crispy golden roasted baby potatoes. It’s simple, hearty, and perfect for a cozy weeknight meal.

 Time

  • Prep: 15 minutes
  • Cook: 50–60 minutes
  • Total: About 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4–6

 Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

  • 1½ lb (680 g) ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

For the Glaze

  • ⅓ cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp yellow mustard

For the Potatoes

  • 1½ lb baby potatoes, halved
  • 1½ tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

 Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Heat to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet or lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. Prepare the meat mixture: Combine ground beef, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Shape the loaf: Form the mixture into a loaf and place it in the center of the baking dish.
  4. Make the glaze: Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread evenly over the meatloaf.
  5. Season potatoes: Toss halved baby potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  6. Arrange: Place potatoes around the meatloaf in a single layer.
  7. Bake: Roast for 50–60 minutes, turning the potatoes halfway through.
  8. Check doneness: The center of the meatloaf should reach 160°F (71°C).
  9. Rest: Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
  10. Serve: Serve warm with the roasted potatoes and your favorite vegetable or salad.

 Healthy Benefits

  • Protein: Ground beef and egg provide protein that helps make the meal satisfying.
  • Potatoes: Provide carbohydrates and potassium.
  • Onions and garlic: Add flavor along with beneficial plant compounds.
  • Olive oil: Provides unsaturated fat.
  • Homemade preparation: Allows you to control the amount of salt, sugar, and added fat.

 Pro Tips

  • Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.
  • Use baby potatoes of similar size so they roast evenly.
  • For extra-crispy potatoes, place them cut-side down on the baking sheet.
  • Let the meatloaf rest before slicing so it stays juicy.
  • Add a splash of milk if the meat mixture seems too dry.

 Frequency

This is a hearty comfort meal, so enjoy it occasionally as part of a balanced diet. Pair it with plenty of vegetables or a fresh salad for a more balanced plate.

 Q&A

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes. Ground turkey works well, although the meatloaf may be slightly leaner and less rich.

Q: Can I prepare the meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes. Shape it, cover it, and refrigerate before baking. Let it sit out briefly while the oven preheats.

Q: Can I freeze meatloaf?
Yes. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze in portions.

Q: Can I use regular potatoes?
Absolutely. Cut larger potatoes into smaller, evenly sized pieces.

Q: What can I serve with it?
Green beans, broccoli, carrots, peas, or a simple garden salad are great choices.

Serving Variations

  • Classic: Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans.
  • Garlic Herb: Add rosemary, thyme, and extra garlic to the potatoes.
  • Cheesy: Add shredded cheddar to the meat mixture.
  • Spicy: Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the glaze.
  • Vegetable-packed: Add finely chopped mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini to the meatloaf.
  • Mediterranean: Replace some of the seasoning with oregano and parsley and serve with a cucumber-tomato salad.

 Related Recipe Ideas

  • Slow Cooker Meatloaf
  • Mini Turkey Meatloaves
  • Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes
  • Classic Beef Stew
  • Homemade Salisbury Steak
  • One-Pan Garlic Herb Chicken & Potatoes
  • Beef and Vegetable Casserole

 Final Thought

Classic Meatloaf with Roasted Potatoes is the kind of comforting homemade dinner that never goes out of style. The tender meatloaf, tangy glaze, and crispy golden potatoes make a satisfying meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight and delicious enough for the whole family.