Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

This Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes is a fantastic addition to any meal, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With its ease of preparation and delicious flavor, this dish stands out as a comforting choice for busy weeknights or leisurely Sunday dinners. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity: both the meatloaf and mashed potatoes cook together in the Instant Pot, making it an efficient one-pot meal that your entire family will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Time-Saving: The Instant Pot reduces cooking time significantly without sacrificing flavor.
• One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks together, simplifying cleanup and preparation.
• Family-Friendly: This classic comfort food is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Flavorful Ingredients: A blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a savory dish that’s bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a hearty dinner or make it a part of your meal prep for the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes this recipe easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to get started.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Mixing bowl
• Potato masher
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: Cooks food quickly while infusing flavors, perfect for busy cooks.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining ingredients without spills.
• Potato Masher: Makes mashing potatoes easy and ensures a creamy texture.

Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes

• 1 cup water
• 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)

For the Meatloaf

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

How to Make Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Begin by adding the water into the bottom of your Instant Pot. Place the quartered yukon gold potatoes on top of the trivet inside the pot. Secure the lid.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine two large eggs, finely chopped yellow onion, minced garlic, Panko breadcrumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lean ground beef. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

Shape the mixture into a loaf form that fits comfortably in your Instant Pot. Place this formed meatloaf directly on top of the potatoes.

Step 4: Cook Everything Together

Set your Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 30 minutes. Once done, allow for a natural release of pressure for about 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining steam.

Step 5: Prepare Mashed Potatoes

Carefully remove the meatloaf from the pot. Drain excess water from the potatoes if necessary. Add butter and warmed milk to the potatoes and mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve Your Meal

Slice the meatloaf into portions and serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes. Drizzle additional ketchup over each slice if desired and enjoy this hearty meal!

How to Serve Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

Serving Instant Pot Meatloaf with mashed potatoes is a delightful experience that brings comfort food to the table. This dish is not only filling but also versatile in terms of accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Classic Green Salad

• A fresh mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch to balance the rich flavors.

Steamed Broccoli

• Lightly steamed broccoli offers a nutritious side that complements the meatloaf and mashed potatoes perfectly.

Roasted Carrots

• Sweet roasted carrots, seasoned with herbs, enhance the meal’s flavor profile while adding a pop of color on the plate.

Garlic Bread

• Crispy garlic bread can be a delightful addition, perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy from the meatloaf.

Gravy on Top

• Add a rich beef gravy over both the meatloaf and mashed potatoes for an extra layer of flavor and moisture.

Pickles or Relish

• A side of pickles or relish provides a tangy contrast that cuts through the heartiness of the meatloaf and potatoes.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

Perfecting your Instant Pot Meatloaf with mashed potatoes can make all the difference in taste and texture. Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Choose lean meat: Using lean ground beef (90% or 93% lean) helps maintain flavor without excessive grease.
• Don’t overmix: Mix ingredients just until combined; overmixing can lead to a tough meatloaf.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance flavor significantly compared to dried or stale options.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your mixture before cooking; feel free to adjust salt and pepper according to preference.
• Let it rest: After cooking, allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices.
• Experiment with toppings: Try different sauces like BBQ or homemade glaze on top for added flavor before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot Meatloaf can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Creamed Spinach: A rich and creamy side that complements the savory meatloaf while adding nutritional value.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn serves as a delightful contrast, perfect for summer meals or any time of year.
3. Mashed Cauliflower: For a lighter option, mashed cauliflower provides a creamy texture without the carbs of traditional potatoes.
4. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans add depth to your plate and pair well with meat dishes.
5. Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic make for a simple yet flavorful addition.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness that balances out the heaviness of meatloaf and potatoes.
7. Sweet Potato Fries: These offer a sweet twist while still being hearty enough to complement your main dish.
8. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts bring an earthy flavor that enhances your meal’s overall taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Skipping the onion: Not using finely chopped onion can lead to uneven flavor. Make sure to chop it well for a tasty meatloaf.
• Overmixing the meat: Mixing too much makes the meatloaf dense. Combine ingredients gently to keep it light and fluffy.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking for too long or too short can ruin your meal. Follow the recipe closely for perfect results.
• Under-seasoning: Not adding enough salt or spices can leave your dish bland. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings as needed.
• Not letting it rest: Cutting into the meatloaf immediately can cause juices to run out. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing for a juicier result.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes?

Serve slices of meatloaf alongside creamy mashed potatoes and your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I customize this Instant Pot Meatloaf recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different spices, mix-ins like bell peppers, or even swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.

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

The total time includes about 25 minutes of prep and approximately 30 minutes of cook time in the Instant Pot.

Can I make this Instant Pot Meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for family dinners and can easily be customized with your favorite flavors. Give this comforting dish a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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