Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes: The Best Healthy Comfort Meal Ever

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There’s just something about meatloaf and mashed potatoes that brings back memories. It’s cozy, filling, and always a hit around the table. This version adds a healthy twist while keeping the comfort right where it belongs.

What we love most about this recipe? It’s made with real, simple ingredients—grass-fed beef, almond flour instead of breadcrumbs, and creamy mashed potatoes made with your choice of milk and ghee.

The meatloaf is soft and flavorful, with bell peppers and herbs for a little pop. The sauce? Tangy, slightly sweet, and brushed right on top before baking. A quick broil at the end adds that perfect crust.

While the loaf bakes, you’ll whip up creamy mashed potatoes—just potatoes, butter, milk, and salt. Nothing fancy, but incredibly satisfying. Mash them as smooth or chunky as you like!

Want to make it ahead? This dish keeps beautifully and tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

Meatloaf

1.5 lb grass-fed ground beef
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 tsp herbs de provence
1 tsp tomato paste
1 tsp butter
2 eggs, beaten
1/4 cup almond flour

Sauce

1/2 cup tomato sauce
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp tamari (or soy sauce or coconut aminos)
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp maple syrup

Mashed Potatoes

4-5 gold or russet potatoes
1/2 cup milk of choice
2-3 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Sauté the diced bell pepper in butter over medium heat for 4–5 minutes. Add tomato paste and herbs de provence. Stir and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, eggs, almond flour, and the bell pepper mixture. Mix gently—don’t overwork.
Press the mixture into a parchment-lined loaf pan.
In a small bowl, stir together the sauce ingredients. Spread over the meatloaf.
Bake at 350°F for about 1 hour, or until internal temperature reaches 155°F.
Remove from pan and place loaf on a baking sheet. Broil on low for 5 minutes to brown the top edges.
While meatloaf bakes, peel and chop potatoes. Boil in salted water until fork-tender (15–20 mins).
Drain, then mash with milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Adjust for creaminess.

Dinner is served! A slice of warm meatloaf with a side of creamy mashed potatoes is all you need to turn a regular night into something special.

Want more comfort food recipes? Browse our full collection of family favorites.

If you give this recipe a try, let us know how it turned out for you. Your feedback means a lot—feel free to leave a star rating and share your thoughts in the comments below.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes Without the Guilt

How to Get the Perfect Texture and Flavor

When you think of meatloaf and mashed potatoes, the mash can make or break the meal. It should be creamy, rich, and smooth—but not heavy or greasy. Getting that perfect texture starts with choosing the right type of potato.

Russet potatoes are starchy and produce fluffy results, while Yukon Golds offer a naturally buttery flavor and creamy consistency. The trick? Don’t over-mash. Overworking the potatoes can make them gluey instead of soft and airy.

After boiling, drain and let them sit for a minute to dry out. Then mash with warm milk and butter (or their alternatives) and season well. Taste and adjust—you’re building flavor, not just texture.

Another pro tip: mash your potatoes while they’re still hot and serve immediately. Reheating mashed potatoes can dull their flavor and thicken their consistency, so fresh is always best if you can.

Dairy Alternatives and Tips for Creaminess

If you’re skipping dairy, you’re not missing out on flavor. This recipe uses almond milk and ghee, giving the potatoes a light, nutty creaminess without the lactose. You can also try:

Alternative	Flavor Profile	Creaminess
Oat Milk	Slightly sweet, neutral	Very creamy
Coconut Milk (light)	Hint of coconut	Rich and smooth
Cashew Cream	Buttery, mild	Ultra creamy
Ghee (clarified butter)	Rich, buttery	Deep, clean finish

Add your dairy-free liquid slowly as you mash to control the consistency. Some like it thick and rustic; others want that silky restaurant-style texture. Either way, salt is your friend—don’t be shy. Even without heavy cream, well-seasoned mashed potatoes are full of flavor.

Don’t miss our The Best 20-Min Breakfast if you’re trying to keep things lighter and cleaner in the kitchen.

Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips

How to Store Leftovers for Best Taste

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, meatloaf and mashed potatoes store beautifully. Once fully cooled, wrap the meatloaf tightly in foil or store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 4 days. Mashed potatoes should be stored separately in a covered container and consumed within 3 days for best texture and taste.

Keep the sauce or glaze separate, if possible, to avoid soggy textures. If the potatoes seem to dry out in the fridge, simply stir in a splash of milk or butter during reheating to bring them back to life.

Storing meatloaf and mashed potatoes for meal prep

Freezing, Reheating, and Next-Day Serving Ideas

Both components of this dish freeze well, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep. To freeze meatloaf, slice it into portions, wrap each in parchment or freezer wrap, and store in a zip-top bag. Mashed potatoes can also be frozen in small portions, although their texture may change slightly. Adding a bit of butter or cream when reheating helps restore creaminess.

Reheating Tips:

Method	Meatloaf	Mashed Potatoes
Oven	350°F, 15–20 mins (covered with foil)	Covered dish at 325°F with added butter/milk
Microwave	2–3 mins, covered, with splash of broth	1–2 mins, stir halfway, add splash of milk
Skillet	Slice and pan-sear for a crispy edge	Not recommended (can stick or dry out)

Serve it up next day with a fresh veggie side or turn it into a sandwich with crusty bread. Either way, it’s a meal worth repeating.

FAQ Section

What goes best with meatloaf?

Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or even mac and cheese. A tangy sauce or gravy enhances the flavor. A light salad can also balance the richness.

Are meatloaf and mashed potatoes good for you?

Yes, when made with clean ingredients like grass-fed beef, almond flour, and dairy-free milk, meatloaf and mashed potatoes can be part of a healthy, balanced meal. You get protein, fiber, and complex carbs.

Why is meatloaf healthy?

Meatloaf can be a great source of protein, iron, and healthy fats—especially when made with lean meats and nutrient-rich add-ins like veggies and almond flour. Baked instead of fried, it’s a smart choice.

Are mashed potatoes healthy or unhealthy?

Mashed potatoes on their own are full of potassium and fiber. What makes them less healthy is how much butter or cream is added. By using alternatives like almond milk and ghee, you keep them lighter without losing flavor.

What ingredient keeps meatloaf from falling apart?

The binder. In this recipe, almond flour and eggs do the job. They hold moisture and structure, preventing the loaf from crumbling. Be sure not to skip them or overmix the meat.

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Conclusion: Bring Comfort Back to the Table

At the end of the day, meatloaf and mashed potatoes aren’t just food—they’re a feeling. A warm, satisfying, and familiar dish that brings people together. With a few healthy swaps and easy techniques, you can turn this classic into a meal that’s both nostalgic and nourishing. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, cooking for your family, or just craving a hearty dinner, this recipe delivers every time.

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Dinner

Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients

Instructions