Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

This Instant Pot Meatloaf is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, cooked alongside creamy Yukon Gold mashed potatoes for a complete comfort-food meal. Quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a classic dinner made simple.

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Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 pounds ground beef (or ground turkey, ground pork, or a combination)
• 2 large eggs
• 4 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (or 1½ teaspoons garlic powder)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• ½ cup sweet onion, diced (or 3 teaspoons dried minced onion)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs

For the Meatloaf Sauce:

• ½ cup ketchup
• 6 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, quartered
• 1 cup water
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup milk
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon bouillon paste (optional, e.g., Better Than Bouillon)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatloaf

In a large bowl, gently mix all the meatloaf ingredients together without overworking the meat. Form the mixture into a round loaf that will fit inside your Instant Pot.

2. Make a Foil “Nest”

Place the meatloaf on a large piece of aluminum foil, folding the edges up to create a secure nest. This keeps the grease from spilling onto the potatoes during cooking.

3. Prepare the Potatoes

Add the quartered potatoes, water, and salt to the bottom of the Instant Pot. Place the wire rack on top of the potatoes, then carefully set the foil “nest” with the meatloaf on the rack.

4. Cook

Secure the lid and close the pressure release valve. Set the Instant Pot to Manual/High Pressure for 25 minutes. Once the timer beeps, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes.

5. Prepare the Sauce

While the meatloaf cooks, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and nutmeg in a small bowl.

6. Finish the Meatloaf

Carefully remove the meatloaf from the Instant Pot and discard the aluminum foil. Spoon the prepared sauce over the top and slice to serve.

7. Make the Mashed Potatoes

Drain any remaining water from the pot. Add the milk, sour cream, butter, bouillon paste, and seasonings to the potatoes. Mash until smooth but still slightly textured. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Comfort Food: Traditional meatloaf and mashed potatoes made in a fraction of the time.
• One-Pot Convenience: Cook meatloaf and potatoes together for easy cleanup.
• Juicy and Flavorful: The Instant Pot locks in moisture and enhances the flavors.
• Family Favorite: A classic dish everyone will enjoy.

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Tips

• Don’t Overmix: Overworking the meat can make the meatloaf dense.
• Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: They mash beautifully and give a creamy texture.
• Foil Nest: Keeps drippings contained for easy cleanup and better-tasting potatoes.
• Adjust Thickness of Sauce: If you prefer a thicker glaze, simmer the sauce separately for a few minutes before pouring over the meatloaf.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Substitute ground turkey or pork for a leaner or different flavor profile.
• Add Vegetables: Finely diced bell peppers or mushrooms can be mixed into the meatloaf.
• Cheese Lovers: Add shredded cheddar or Parmesan to the meat mixture for extra richness.
• Herb Variations: Replace sage with thyme or rosemary for a different aromatic profile.

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FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the meatloaf and potatoes in the Instant Pot insert and refrigerate for a few hours. Cook when ready.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Freeze sliced meatloaf and mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Can I cook without the foil nest?
Yes, but some grease may drip onto the potatoes. The nest helps keep them separate.

How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the microwave or oven. For best texture, cover mashed potatoes to prevent drying out.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Serve slices of meatloaf with a scoop of creamy mashed potatoes on the side.
• Add steamed green beans, peas, or roasted carrots for a balanced meal.
• Drizzle extra meatloaf sauce or gravy over both meat and potatoes for maximum flavor.