This Meatloaf in a Bundt Pan is a fun and delicious twist on a classic comfort food. The Bundt pan shape allows for more surface area, meaning the meatloaf cooks more evenly and quickly. Topping it with creamy mashed potatoes transforms this dish into a hearty, satisfying meal—almost like a savory shepherd’s pie!
Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably fresh or Italian)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup ketchup (plus more for topping)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added richness)
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup milk (or heavy cream for richer potatoes)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatloaf:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Mix well until the ingredients are evenly combined. You can use your hands or a spoon to mix it.
- Lightly grease a Bundt pan with cooking spray or butter to ensure the meatloaf doesn’t stick.
- Transfer the meatloaf mixture into the Bundt pan and press it down gently to fill all the spaces, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Smooth the top.
2. Bake the Meatloaf:
- Place the Bundt pan in the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Baking in a Bundt pan speeds up the cooking time since it exposes more surface area to heat.
- Halfway through the cooking time, you can brush the top of the meatloaf with a little extra ketchup for a flavorful glaze (optional).
3. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- While the meatloaf is baking, cook the potatoes. Place the peeled and chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or use a hand mixer for a smoother consistency. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Assemble the Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes:
- When the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven. Let it rest in the Bundt pan for about 5-10 minutes before inverting it onto a serving platter. The Bundt pan shape will give the meatloaf a lovely ring shape.
- Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top of the meatloaf. You can use a spatula to spread them evenly and even create little peaks and swirls for a nice presentation.
- If desired, sprinkle some shredded cheese over the mashed potatoes and place the dish back in the oven for another 5-10 minutes to melt the cheese and create a golden crust. Alternatively, you can broil it for 2-3 minutes to get a crispy top (watch closely to avoid burning).
5. Serve:
- Once the cheese has melted (if using), remove from the oven and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional seasonings, if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Meatloaf Texture: Don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture, as it can lead to a dense texture. Mix just enough to combine the ingredients evenly.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients to the meatloaf mixture for extra flavor, such as sautéed mushrooms, chopped bell peppers, or even a bit of crumbled bacon.
- Mashed Potato Texture: For ultra-creamy mashed potatoes, use heavy cream and more butter. You can also substitute half of the butter with sour cream for a tangy twist.
- Freezing: You can freeze the assembled meatloaf (without the mashed potatoes) for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, then top with freshly made mashed potatoes.
Storage:
- Leftovers: Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the meatloaf and mashed potatoes together in the microwave or in the oven.
- Freezing: If you have leftovers, you can freeze the meatloaf and mashed potatoes separately or together. Allow the dish to cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
This Meatloaf in a Bundt Pan with Mashed Potatoes is a fun and creative way to serve this classic comfort food! The Bundt pan shape makes the meatloaf cook more evenly and gives it a beautiful presentation. The mashed potatoes on top are creamy and delicious, making it a satisfying one-dish meal. Enjoy!
4o mini