Meatloaf with Roasted Potatoes

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Meatloaf with Roasted Potatoes: A Comforting Classic

Introduction

Meatloaf with roasted potatoes is the ultimate comfort meal — a perfect balance of tender, flavorful ground meat baked to perfection and paired with crispy, golden potatoes. This dish brings together rich, savory flavors and homestyle warmth, making it a timeless favorite for family dinners. Whether served on a chilly evening or for a festive gathering, meatloaf delivers hearty satisfaction and nostalgia in every slice.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Meatloaf’s roots trace back to Europe, particularly Germany and Scandinavia, where minced meat was mixed with grains and baked long before the dish reached America. The modern version gained popularity in the United States during the Great Depression, when homemakers found creative ways to stretch affordable ingredients.
Over the decades, it evolved into a symbol of home-cooked comfort and family unity — a dish that embodies practicality, frugality, and love. Paired with roasted potatoes, it celebrates the essence of rustic, wholesome cooking found on tables around the world.

Ingredients and Quantities

For the Meatloaf:

  • Ground beef – 500 g (1 lb)
  • Ground pork (optional, for flavor) – 250 g (½ lb)
  • Breadcrumbs – ¾ cup (about 60 g)
  • Milk – ½ cup (120 ml)
  • Eggs – 2 large
  • Onion (finely chopped) – 1 medium
  • Garlic (minced) – 2 cloves
  • Ketchup – 3 tbsp
  • Worcestershire sauce – 1 tbsp
  • Dijon mustard – 1 tsp
  • Salt – 1½ tsp
  • Black pepper – ½ tsp
  • Fresh parsley (chopped) – 2 tbsp

For the Glaze:

  • Ketchup – ¼ cup
  • Brown sugar – 1 tbsp
  • Apple cider vinegar – 1 tsp

For the Roasted Potatoes:

  • Potatoes – 800 g (1¾ lbs), cut into cubes or wedges
  • Olive oil – 3 tbsp
  • Garlic powder – 1 tsp
  • Paprika – 1 tsp
  • Salt – 1 tsp
  • Black pepper – ½ tsp
  • Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional) – 1 tsp, chopped

Optional Additions

  • Cheese layer: Add mozzarella or cheddar inside the meatloaf for a melty surprise.
  • Vegetable mix-ins: Finely grated carrots, bell peppers, or spinach for added moisture and nutrients.
  • BBQ twist: Replace the ketchup glaze with smoky BBQ sauce.
  • Spice kick: Add chili flakes or smoked paprika for depth and heat.

Tips for Success

  1. Don’t overmix the meat — mix gently to keep the loaf tender.
  2. Soak breadcrumbs in milk before combining; it adds moisture and prevents dryness.
  3. Rest before slicing — let the meatloaf sit for 10–15 minutes after baking to retain juices.
  4. Use a baking rack or line the pan with parchment for even cooking.
  5. Toss potatoes halfway throughroasting for even crispiness.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. In a large bowl, soak breadcrumbs in milk for 5 minutes.
  3. Add ground beef, pork, onion, garlic, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  4. Mix gently until combined.
  5. Shape into a loaf on a parchment-lined baking tray.
  6. In a small bowl, combine glaze ingredients and spread evenly over the top.

Step 2: Prepare the Roasted Potatoes

  1. In a bowl, toss potato pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and rosemary.
  2. Arrange around the meatloaf on the same tray (or a separate one if preferred).

Step 3: Bake

  1. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 70°C (160°F).
  2. Stir or turn potatoes halfway through to ensure even browning.
  3. Once done, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Serve

Slice the meatloaf and serve alongside the roasted potatoes. Garnish with parsley or a drizzle of gravy, if desired.

Description

This dish captures the essence of comfort food — juicy, flavorful meatloaf with a sweet-savory glaze and crispy, herbed roasted potatoes. Each bite balances tender texture with caramelized edges and aromatic herbs. It’s filling, deeply satisfying, and ideal for both family dinners and cozy gatherings.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. based on 6 servings)

  • Calories: 480–520 kcal
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 6 g
    (Values vary by ingredients and portion sizes.)

Conclusion

Meatloaf with roasted potatoes is more than a meal — it’s a story of tradition, resilience, and togetherness. Its homestyle simplicity and rich, balanced flavors remind us that great comfort often lies in humble ingredients cooked with care.

Recommendation

Serve this dish with a side of steamed green beans, glazed carrots, or a crisp garden salad to add freshness and color. Pair with a glass of red wine or iced tea for a complete, hearty meal. Leftovers can be turned into meatloaf sandwiches for a delicious next-day treat.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

To make this meal more health-conscious:

  • Use lean ground meat (like turkey or chicken) or a mix of lean beef and lentils for added fiber.
  • Replace breadcrumbs with oats or whole-grain crumbs.
  • Roast potatoes in the air fryer for reduced oil usage.
  • Serve with a light yogurt-based sauce instead of gravy or extra ketchup.

Healthful indulgence is about balance — savoring the warmth and satisfaction of classic dishes while embracing mindful adjustments that nourish the body and soul.

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