Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

This Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes is a delightful dish that offers the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe combines hearty meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, all cooked together in the Instant Pot. The convenience of a one-pot meal means less cleanup and more time to enjoy with loved ones. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 25 minutes of prep time and only 30 minutes of cooking, you can serve a delicious meal in under an hour.
• One-Pot Wonder: Cooking both the meatloaf and mashed potatoes together reduces cleanup and makes meal prep a breeze.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of seasoned ground beef, fresh onions, and garlic creates an irresistible flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: This recipe is perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering.
• Comfort Food Classic: Enjoy the nostalgic taste of homemade meatloaf paired with buttery mashed potatoes.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools that make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Mixing bowl
• Potato masher or electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: This appliance simplifies cooking by allowing you to prepare meals quickly while enhancing flavors through pressure cooking.
• Mixing Bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining ingredients thoroughly, ensuring even flavor distribution in your meatloaf.
• Potato Masher or Electric Mixer: These tools help achieve the perfect creamy texture for your mashed potatoes without hassle.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

• 2 pounds lean ground beef (90% or 93% lean)
• ¾ cup finely chopped yellow onion
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 3 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper

For the Glaze

• ½ cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

For the Mashed Potatoes

• 2 ½ pounds yukon gold potatoes (quartered, no need to peel)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ cup milk (warmed, whole milk is best, or cream)
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ⅛ teaspoon pepper (or to taste)

Additional Ingredients

• 1 cup water

How to Make Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients on your countertop. Ensure that your yukon gold potatoes are quartered for even cooking.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Ground beef
2. Chopped onion
3. Minced garlic
4. Panko breadcrumbs
5. Eggs
6. Ketchup
7. Worcestershire sauce
8. Dried thyme
9. Garlic powder
10. Salt
11. Pepper

Mix until well blended but don’t overmix.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

Shape the meat mixture into a loaf form and place it on the trivet inside the Instant Pot.

Step 4: Add Water for Steaming

Pour 1 cup of water into the bottom of the Instant Pot to create steam during cooking.

Step 5: Prepare Mashed Potatoes

Place quartered yukon gold potatoes around the meatloaf in the pot. Close the lid securely.

Step 6: Cook in Instant Pot

Set your Instant Pot to high pressure for 30 minutes. Once completed, allow natural release for about 10 minutes before doing a quick release.

Step 7: Make Glaze While Cooking

In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, light brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.

Step 8: Glaze the Meatloaf

After releasing pressure, carefully remove the meatloaf from the pot. Brush it with the glaze mix and return it to cook on sauté mode for another few minutes if desired for caramelization.

Step 9: Mash Your Potatoes

Remove potatoes from the pot; drain excess water if necessary. Add butter, warmed milk, salt, and pepper; mash until smooth.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

Slice your meatloaf and serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal that’s sure to please!

How to Serve Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

Serving Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes is a delightful experience that combines comfort and flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes to enhance the meal further.

Classic Salad

• A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a refreshing crunch to your plate.

Gravy Drizzle

• Pouring a rich beef gravy over your meatloaf and mashed potatoes enhances the flavors and adds moisture.

Sautéed Vegetables

• Lightly sautéed green beans or carrots complement the savory meatloaf while adding color and nutrition.

Pickled Vegetables

• Adding pickled cucumbers or beets can provide a tangy contrast that balances the hearty flavors of the dish.

Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing with chopped parsley or thyme not only beautifies the dish but also adds a burst of fresh flavor.

Cheese Topping

• A sprinkle of shredded cheese, such as cheddar, on top of the mashed potatoes offers a creamy texture and extra richness.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

To make your Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes even better, consider these handy tips:

• Use lean meat – Opt for 90% or 93% lean ground beef for less grease while still keeping it flavorful.
• Mix well – Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined for even cooking and consistent flavor throughout the meatloaf.
• Layer ingredients – Place potatoes on the bottom of the pot and the meatloaf on top for perfect cooking without soggy bottoms.
• Adjust seasoning – Tailor salt, pepper, and herbs to your taste for a personalized flavor profile that suits your family preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot Meatloaf can elevate this comforting meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy from your meatloaf.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, providing a delicious contrast to savory meatloaf.
3. Creamed Spinach – Creamy spinach offers a rich side that pairs well with the hearty nature of meatloaf.
4. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and brightness to balance out the richness of mashed potatoes.
5. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn on the cob is not only fun to eat but also provides a delightful sweetness alongside savory flavors.
6. Baked Beans – The sweetness of baked beans complements meatloaf perfectly while adding an extra layer of comfort food goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes, it’s easy to encounter a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Using unseasoned meat: If you skip seasoning your ground beef, your meatloaf will lack flavor. Be sure to add salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance the taste.
• Overmixing the ingredients: Mixing too much can lead to a dense meatloaf. Combine the ingredients until just combined for a lighter texture.
• Ignoring the liquid: Forgetting to add water or broth can lead to a dry meatloaf. Always ensure there’s enough liquid in the pot.
• Skipping the rest period: Cutting into the meatloaf immediately after cooking can cause it to fall apart. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
• Not checking doneness: Using an unreliable method to check if your meatloaf is done can result in undercooking. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container.
• item It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

• item Wrap leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• item The meatloaf can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely; heat for 2-3 minutes, checking for doneness.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water if needed, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes?

Cooking time is around 30 minutes once the Instant Pot reaches pressure. Total preparation and cooking time is approximately 80 minutes.

Can I customize my Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes?

Absolutely! Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms into the mix, or try different spices according to your taste preferences.

What sides go well with Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes?

You can pair this dish with steamed vegetables, salad, or any fresh side dish for a complete meal.

How do I know when my meatloaf is done?

Use a meat thermometer; it should read at least 160°F (70°C) in the center of the meatloaf.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for family dinners and can be customized with various seasonings and vegetables. Give this comforting recipe a try, and enjoy an easy yet satisfying meal!

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