Ultimate Instant Pot Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes | Easy, Flavorful Dinner Idea

Table of Contents: Instant Pot Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes

Instant Pot Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes

Instant Pot Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes: A Classic Comfort Food Combo

Looking for a hearty, nostalgic meal that’s easy to make and perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings? This Instant Pot Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes recipe delivers tender, flavorful meatloaf paired with creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes—all cooked together in one pot for ultimate convenience!

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Introduction: Instant Pot Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes

There’s something deeply comforting about the classic combination of meatloaf and mashed potatoes. It’s a meal that reminds us of Sunday dinners, holiday feasts, and cozy weeknights with loved ones. With this Instant Pot Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes recipe, you can enjoy all the flavors of this timeless duo without spending hours in the kitchen.

The Instant Pot is a game-changer for busy home cooks, allowing you to cook both the meatloaf and mashed potatoes simultaneously. This recipe is perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need a quick, satisfying meal or for special occasions like Thanksgiving, where it can double as one of your go-to Thanksgiving side dishes.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe is foolproof and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to introduce your family to meatloaf recipes that are moist and tender, paired with mashed potato recipes that are creamy and irresistibly smooth.

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Alternate Names & Variations

This recipe can also be called “One-Pot Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes,” “Pressure Cooker Meatloaf Dinner,” or “Instant Pot Comfort Food.” If you’re looking for variations, try swapping the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken, or use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a twist. You can also experiment with different toppings for the meatloaf, such as a tangy glaze or a sprinkle of cheese.

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Ingredients: Instant Pot Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes

To Cook Potatoes:

– 2 ½ lbs potatoes, peeled and quartered
– 1 ½ cups chicken broth (or water, veggie broth, beef broth, etc.)
– 2–3 cloves garlic (optional, for garlic mashed potatoes)

Meatloaf Mixture:

– 2 lbs ground beef (90% lean recommended)
– ½ cup bread crumbs (panko or crushed crackers work well)
– ⅓ cup milk
– 2 eggs
– ⅓ cup ketchup (or BBQ sauce)
– ½ cup onion, finely chopped or grated
– 1 ½ tsp garlic powder
– 1 ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– ½ tsp oregano
– ¼ tsp thyme
– 2 tbsp chives, chopped (or fresh parsley)
– 1 tsp salt
– ½ tsp pepper

Meatloaf Topping:

– ⅓ cup ketchup
– ⅓ cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tbsp yellow mustard
– 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for added sweetness)

To Make the Mashed Potatoes:

– 4 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp salt
– ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half, milk, etc.)
– ½ cup sour cream (optional)

Tools You’ll Need:

– 6 qt or 8 qt pressure cooker
– Trivet/rack
– Mixing bowls
– Aluminum foil (heavy-duty recommended)
– Meat thermometer
– Turkey baster
– Baking sheet pan

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Place peeled and quartered potatoes in the Instant Pot. Add chicken broth and garlic cloves (if using).

2. Make the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, eggs, ketchup, onion, garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, chives, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix.

3. Shape the Meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape and wrap it in heavy-duty aluminum foil, leaving the top open.

4. Layer in the Instant Pot: Place the trivet in the Instant Pot over the potatoes. Carefully place the meatloaf on the trivet.

5. Cook: Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” for 25 minutes on high pressure. Allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.

6. Make the Topping: While the meatloaf cooks, combine ketchup, BBQ sauce, yellow mustard, and brown sugar in a small bowl.

7. Finish the Meatloaf: Preheat your oven to broil. Remove the meatloaf from the Instant Pot, unwrap it, and place it on a baking sheet pan. Brush the topping over the meatloaf and broil for 3–5 minutes until caramelized.

8. Mash the Potatoes: Remove the potatoes from the Instant Pot and mash with butter, salt, heavy cream, and sour cream (if using) until creamy and smooth.

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Recipe Card Block

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~600 per serving

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Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This recipe combines convenience with classic flavors, making it a winner for busy families. The Instant Pot ensures the meatloaf stays moist and tender, while the mashed potatoes are perfectly cooked and creamy. For the best results, avoid overmixing the meatloaf mixture, and use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

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Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the meatloaf in foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes. Mashed potatoes can be reheated on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream. Both dishes can be frozen for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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People Also Ask: Instant Pot Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes

Can you cook meatloaf and mashed potatoes together in the Instant Pot?

Yes! The Instant Pot allows you to cook both simultaneously by placing the potatoes at the bottom and the meatloaf on a trivet above.

How long does it take to make meatloaf and mashed potatoes in an Instant Pot?

Total cooking time is about 25 minutes, plus time for the pot to come to pressure and release.

What’s the best way to keep mashed potatoes fluffy in the Instant Pot?

Avoid overmashing the potatoes, and use a hand masher or ricer for the fluffiest texture.

How do you prevent soggy meatloaf when cooking in the Instant Pot?

Wrap the meatloaf in heavy-duty aluminum foil to protect it from excess moisture while cooking.

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Conclusion: Instant Pot Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes

This Instant Pot Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves classic comfort food with a modern twist. It’s easy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and share your results with us in the comments below!

Enjoy your cooking adventure!

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