How to Make Classic Meatloaf with Roasted Potatoes

Classic Meatloaf with Roasted Potatoes – The Ultimate Comfort Food Dinner

There’s nothing quite like a classic meatloaf served with crispy roasted potatoes — it’s hearty, comforting, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table. This timeless dish combines juicy, flavorful meatloaf glazed with a sweet and tangy sauce, alongside golden, perfectly roasted potatoes. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or a Sunday meal prep, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results every single time.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio is ideal) ½ lb ground pork (optional but adds richness) 1 cup panko breadcrumbs ⅔ cup milk (whole or 2%) 1 small onion, finely diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 large egg, lightly beaten 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 1 tbsp ketchup 1 tsp Dijon mustard 1 tsp dried thyme or parsley 1 ½ tsp salt ½ tsp black pepper

For the Glaze:

½ cup ketchup 2 tbsp brown sugar 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

For the Roasted Potatoes:

2 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, scrubbed and cut into 1-inch chunks 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp garlic powder 1 tsp paprika Salt and pepper to taste Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk to create a panade. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to absorb. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, ground pork, the soaked breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix gently by hand until just combined — avoid overmixing for a tender texture.

Step 2: Shape and Arrange on a Baking Sheet

Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Shape the meat mixture into a 9×5-inch loaf on one side of the sheet, leaving space for the potatoes.

Step 3: Season and Add the Potatoes

In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Spread them on the other side of the baking sheet in a single layer.

Step 4: Initial Bake

Bake both the meatloaf and potatoes for 40 minutes.

Step 5: Make and Apply the Glaze

While baking, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. After 40 minutes, remove the sheet from the oven and brush the glaze evenly over the top and sides of the meatloaf. Stir or flip the potatoes. Return to the oven and bake for another 20–30 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C) and the potatoes are crisp and golden.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the loaf moist. Garnish the potatoes with parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Chef’s Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf

Use a panade: The breadcrumb and milk mixture prevents dryness and keeps the meat juicy. Don’t overmix: Gentle mixing ensures a tender texture. Bake free-form: Baking on a sheet pan allows better browning and caramelization. Use a meat thermometer: Always cook to 160°F for the ideal doneness. Rest before slicing: This prevents the meatloaf from crumbling and losing its juices.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serve this classic meatloaf with roasted potatoes alongside steamed green beans, buttered peas, or a crisp garden salad for a complete meal. You can also drizzle the extra glaze over each slice for extra flavor. For a twist, add shredded cheddar cheese to the meat mixture, swap the potatoes for sweet potatoes, or top the meatloaf with crispy bacon strips before baking.

FAQs – Classic Meatloaf with Roasted Potatoes

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare and shape the loaf up to a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. When ready to cook, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
What can I use instead of pork? You can use all ground beef or substitute with ground turkey for a leaner version.
How do I keep my meatloaf from falling apart? The key is proper binding — the panade (breadcrumbs and milk) plus an egg help hold everything together. Resting before slicing also keeps it intact.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done? Use an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Can I freeze meatloaf? Absolutely. Wrap the cooked and cooled loaf tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Estimated Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Conclusion

This Classic Meatloaf with Roasted Potatoes recipe is the ultimate combination of comfort, flavor, and simplicity — an ideal family dinner that’s easy to prepare yet deeply satisfying. Juicy meatloaf with a perfectly balanced glaze and crispy, golden potatoes make it a complete one-pan meal you’ll come back to again and again.