Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

This Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. Cooking both the meatloaf and mashed potatoes together saves time and brings out rich flavors that everyone will enjoy. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a special occasion, this dish offers convenience without compromising on taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking: The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time compared to traditional methods.
• One-Pot Meal: Enjoy easy cleanup with all components prepared in a single pot.
• Flavorful Combination: The savory meatloaf pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes for a delightful meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the meatloaf with your favorite spices and add-ins for a personal touch.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please picky eaters, making it ideal for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your kitchen tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: Speeds up cooking time while infusing flavors deeply into the meatloaf and potatoes.
• Mixing Bowl: Ensures you can easily combine all ingredients without mess.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements lead to consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

• 1 cup water
• 2 pounds lean ground beef (90% or 93% lean)
• ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
• ¾ cup finely chopped yellow onion
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 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 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)

For the Glaze

• 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 Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients as listed above. This will streamline your cooking process.

Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Lean ground beef
2. Panko breadcrumbs
3. Chopped onion
4. Minced garlic
5. Eggs
6. Ketchup
7. Worcestershire sauce
8. Thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper

Mix well until fully combined.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the mixture onto a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Shape it into a loaf form that’s about 8 inches long.

Step 4: Prepare the Potatoes

In another bowl, place quartered yukon gold potatoes. Add enough water to cover them and season with salt.

Step 5: Set Up Your Instant Pot

Pour one cup of water into the bottom of your Instant Pot. Place a trivet inside, then carefully place your shaped meatloaf on top of it.

Step 6: Add Potatoes

Arrange your quartered potatoes around the meatloaf in the pot.

Step 7: Pressure Cook

Close the lid securely and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 30 minutes.

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze

While everything is cooking, mix together ketchup, light brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl.

Step 9: Release Pressure

Once cooking is complete, do a quick release of pressure according to your pot’s instructions.

Step 10: Glaze and Serve

Remove the meatloaf from the pot carefully. Brush it with glaze before slicing and serving alongside creamy mashed potatoes. Enjoy!

How to Serve Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

Serving Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes is a delightful way to enjoy comfort food. This dish pairs well with a variety of accompaniments that enhance its flavors and textures.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of leafy greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes drizzled with a light vinaigrette adds freshness.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Parmesan cheese and croutons for a classic touch.

Add Some Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli florets bring vibrant color and nutrients to the plate.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized carrots roasted until tender make a perfect side.

Serve with Gravy

• Savory Mushroom Gravy: A rich mushroom gravy poured over meatloaf adds moisture and flavor, making each bite even better.
• Classic Brown Gravy: Smooth brown gravy enhances the taste of both the meatloaf and mashed potatoes.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

To ensure your meatloaf turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavoring: Use fresh herbs and spices to elevate the taste of your meatloaf; fresh thyme or parsley can add brightness.
• Moisture Matters: Adding milk or cream into your mixture helps keep the meatloaf moist as it cooks.
• Uniform Size: Shape your meatloaf evenly so that it cooks uniformly in the Instant Pot.
• Rest Before Slicing: Letting the meatloaf sit for a few minutes after cooking allows juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

Complementing your meal is easy when you choose from these delicious side dishes that pair beautifully with Instant Pot Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes.

1. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in garlic butter provide a crunchy contrast.
2. Creamed Spinach: Rich and creamy spinach adds an indulgent element to your plate.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn, either grilled or boiled, brings a pop of sweetness.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers refreshing acidity that balances the richness of the meatloaf.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet baked sweet potatoes create a lovely flavor combination.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice, cheese, and veggies offer a colorful addition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Incorrect meat ratio: Using too much fat in the ground beef can result in a greasy meatloaf. Stick to lean ground beef for the best texture.
• Overcooking potatoes: If you chop the potatoes too small, they may become mushy. Quarter them evenly and check for doneness towards the end of cooking.
• Neglecting seasoning: Skipping on seasonings can lead to bland meatloaf. Use adequate salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance the flavors.
• Not using enough liquid: Without enough water, the Instant Pot may not reach pressure. Ensure you add at least 1 cup of water for proper cooking.
• Skipping the resting period: Cutting into the meatloaf right away can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

• Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 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: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through.
• Stovetop: Slice and heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the best Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes?

To make the best version, focus on using quality ingredients, ensure proper seasoning, and maintain the right meat-to-fat ratio.

Can I customize my Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different vegetables or spices based on your preferences. You can also swap ground beef for turkey or chicken.

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

A fresh salad or steamed vegetables complement this dish nicely. Green beans or broccoli are great choices!

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

The total cooking time is about 30 minutes under pressure, plus preparation time.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes is a comforting meal that your family will adore. It’s versatile enough for customization; try adding your favorite herbs or vegetables! Don’t hesitate—give this easy recipe a try for your next family dinner!