Few meals are as comforting as a plate of classic meatloaf served with creamy mashed potatoes, buttery corn, and a sweet corn on the cob. This old-fashioned American dinner is the ultimate example of hearty, homemade goodness — simple ingredients brought together with love and flavor. The combination of tender, juicy meatloaf, smooth potatoes, and sweet golden corn makes it a timeless dish that feels like home on every bite.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 green bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 3 tablespoons ketchup (plus more for topping)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 pounds potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Corn:
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 2 ears of corn on the cob
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Pinch of salt and black pepper
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatloaf
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, bell pepper, garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until all ingredients are evenly incorporated — don’t overmix, or the meatloaf may become dense.
Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a lined baking sheet. Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top for a tangy glaze. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
2. Make the Mashed Potatoes
While the meatloaf bakes, place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold salted water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Drain well, then mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until creamy and smooth. For extra richness, add a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese.
3. Cook the Corn
- For the kernels: In a small skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the corn, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until warm and glossy.
- For the corn on the cob: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the corn cobs and cook for 5–6 minutes until tender. Drain and brush with butter. Sprinkle with salt or even a touch of paprika for color.
4. Assemble the Plate
Place two slices of warm meatloaf on a plate and drizzle lightly with ketchup or your favorite brown gravy. Add a generous scoop of mashed potatoes on one side and top with cracked black pepper. Serve the buttered corn and a corn cob alongside for a perfectly balanced and colorful meal.
Tips for Success
- Keep it moist: Use a mix of ground beef and ground pork, or add a splash of beef broth if your meatloaf mixture feels dry.
- Flavor upgrade: Add shredded cheddar cheese inside the meatloaf or mix in chopped bacon for a smoky twist.
- Perfect mashed potatoes: Always start with cold water and boil gently so the potatoes cook evenly.
- Reheat like a pro: Warm leftovers in the oven covered with foil to keep the moisture in.
Serving Suggestions
This meal pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, roasted green beans, or homemade dinner rolls. For a Southern-style twist, drizzle the mashed potatoes with brown gravy and add a slice of butter on top of the corn for that irresistible glossy finish.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warm. You can also freeze slices of meatloaf individually wrapped for up to 2 months — perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Corn brings together the best of old-fashioned comfort food. It’s hearty, flavorful, and satisfying — the kind of meal that makes any night feel like Sunday dinner. From the tangy glaze to the creamy potatoes and buttery corn, it’s a timeless recipe that everyone will love.