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### **Instructions:**
#### **1. Prepare the Meatloaf:**
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined, being careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
Once the ingredients are well mixed, shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the center of a large, greased baking dish or roasting pan. Set aside while you prepare the potatoes.
#### **2. Prepare the Potatoes in Cream:**
Thinly slice the potatoes into about 1/8-inch thick slices. The thinner the slices, the creamier and more tender they’ll be when baked. Arrange the sliced potatoes evenly around the meatloaf in the same baking dish.
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, chicken broth, butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it’s warmed through, but not boiling. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the cream and broth, creating a rich, cheesy sauce.
Pour the creamy mixture over the potatoes, making sure they’re all coated. You want the cream to be just about covering the potatoes, with the meatloaf in the center.
#### **3. Bake the Meatloaf and Potatoes:**
Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 45 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked (an internal temperature of 160°F) and the potatoes are tender and golden brown on top. The cream should have thickened slightly and become bubbly around the potatoes.
#### **4. Serve and Enjoy:**
Once the meatloaf is cooked and the potatoes are perfectly tender, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the meatloaf into thick slices and serve with the creamy potatoes on the side. If desired, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and extra freshness.
### **Tips for Perfect Meatloaf with Potatoes in Cream:**
– **For Extra Flavor:** Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or ketchup to the meatloaf mixture for an added layer of flavor. You can also top the meatloaf with a glaze of ketchup or barbecue sauce during the last 15 minutes of baking for a delicious, caramelized finish.
– **Customize the Potatoes:** While this recipe uses heavy cream and Parmesan cheese for the creamy potatoes, you can experiment by adding other ingredients such as grated Gruyère or mozzarella cheese for a different cheese flavor. You could also add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, aromatic touch.
– **Add Vegetables:** You can sneak in some vegetables by layering sliced carrots, zucchini, or even spinach with the potatoes. These additions will not only make the dish more nutritious but will also blend beautifully with the creamy sauce.
– **Make It Ahead:** This dish can be prepared in advance. You can assemble everything and refrigerate it before baking, then bake it the next day when you’re ready to eat. Just be sure to extend the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes if baking from cold.
### **Why You’ll Love This Recipe:**
– **One-Pot Wonder:** Everything is cooked in one dish, so you won’t need to worry about making multiple sides or cleaning a bunch of pots and pans. The meatloaf and potatoes bake together, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
– **Comfort Food at Its Best:** There’s something so satisfying about the combination of juicy, flavorful meatloaf and creamy, cheesy potatoes. This dish is the definition of comfort food, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you need something warm and filling.
– **Versatile and Customizable:** While this recipe is already a complete meal, you can easily modify it to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer a different protein for the meatloaf or want to experiment with different potato toppings, this recipe can be adapted to fit your taste.
– **Hearty and Filling:** With its rich meatloaf and creamy, cheesy potatoes, this dish will leave everyone feeling full and satisfied. It’s a great option for a filling weeknight dinner or even a weekend meal with family or friends.
### **Conclusion:**
**Meatloaf with Potatoes in Cream** is a comforting, hearty dish that brings together two classic comfort foods into one irresistible, flavorful meal. The creamy potatoes complement the savory meatloaf perfectly, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delicious one-pot meal!
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