If you've never made meatloaf and mashed potatoes at the same time, the Instant Pot makes it possible. You get juicy, tender meatloaf packed with flavor, and soft, buttery mashed potatoes-a classic American comfort-food pairing-all in one pot, cooked with the Instant Pot's pressure-steam method for faster results.
That means fewer dishes and quicker cleanup.
This setup is a win on busy weeknights. The meat cooks above the potatoes on a rack, and the steam cooks them both evenly.
Once the meatloaf is done, mash the potatoes directly in the pot while the meatloaf rests. It's smart, simple, and makes a meal that feels slow-cooked in half the time.
Why This Instant Pot Combo Works
This recipe makes great use of time and space, using the Instant Pot's stacked cooking to steam potatoes while the meatloaf cooks above (using the Instant Pot trivet to keep them separate). You don't need to juggle pots or use the oven.
- Two-in-one cooking: The potatoes steam while the meatloaf cooks above them.
- Moist meatloaf: Steam keeps the meat tender and prevents it from drying out.
- Quick dinner: From start to finish, it takes about 45 minutes total, including about 10 minutes of natural pressure release; for other one-pot weeknight meals, try chicken noodle soup for weeknight comfort.
Plus, the flavors don't blend together, so the potatoes still taste like potatoes, not meatloaf.
What You Need for This Recipe
Just a few main ingredients give you a full dinner, reflecting classic American pantry staples such as ground beef, potatoes, and ketchup.
- Ground beef - Use 80/20 for a mix of flavor and tenderness.
- Breadcrumbs and egg - These hold the meatloaf together without drying it out, and for more on similar egg preparations see deviled egg basics and uses.
- Ketchup and mustard - Adds tang and sweetness to the meat mix and glaze.
- Yukon gold or russet potatoes - Soft enough to mash but still hold their shape.
- Butter and milk - Adds creaminess to the mashed potatoes.
Salt, garlic, onion, and a bit of seasoning round out the flavor without making it fussy.
For a spicy, spreadable cured pork option often used to add heat and depth in recipes, see 'nduja sausage for bold flavor.
How to Cook Meatloaf and Potatoes Together
You'll use the pot's trivet and pressure cooking mode on HIGH to make this meal all in one (most Instant Pot models reach about 10-12 psi on HIGH).
If you want more options for what to serve alongside slices of meatloaf, see classic side dishes for meatloaf dinners.
- Shape the meatloaf
Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, mustard, garlic, and seasoning. Shape into a loaf that fits on the Instant Pot trivet. - Layer the potatoes
Peel and chop the potatoes. Place them in the bottom of the Instant Pot with water and salt. - Place the meatloaf above
Set the trivet or foil sling on top of the potatoes. Place the meatloaf on top, then seal the lid. - Pressure cookCook on HIGH for 25 minutes; for other quick one-pot dinners try easy no-boil pasta dinners for busy weeknights.
- Glaze the meatloaf
Remove the meatloaf and brush the top with a ketchup glaze. Broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes to caramelize if desired. - Mash the potatoes
Drain any extra water from the pot. Add butter and milk, then mash until creamy and smooth. - Serve
Slice the meatloaf and serve with big spoonfuls of mashed potatoes on the side.
Best Sides to Serve With It
This meal can hold its own, but sides to elevate weeknight meals can really round it out, such as bright vinegar-based salads or roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips; finish with single-serve desserts for quick nights.
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Steamed green beans | Brings freshness and crunch |
| Garlic sautéed spinach | Quick and flavorful way to add greens |
| Roasted carrots | Adds sweetness and a colorful contrast |
| Dinner rolls | Great for soaking up extra sauce |
| Corn on the cob | Brings summer cookout vibes |
| Creamed peas | Classic comfort food combo |
| Cucumber vinegar salad | Tangy and crisp to cut through richness |
Storage and Reheating Tips
Keep leftovers fresh and easy to enjoy again.
- Fridge: Store meatloaf and potatoes separately in containers for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze slices of meatloaf wrapped in foil or airtight bags. Mashed potatoes can be frozen too but may need a stir after thawing.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave with a splash of milk or butter to bring back moisture.
Common Questions About Instant Pot Meatloaf and Potatoes
Can I use ground turkey instead?
Yes, just be sure to add extra seasoning and check doneness with a thermometer.
Do I need a trivet?
It helps, but you can also use a DIY foil sling to hold the meatloaf above the potatoes.
Is broiling the glaze necessary?
Not required, but it adds a nice finish and brings out extra flavor in the ketchup topping.
Can I mash the potatoes with skins on?
You can, especially if using Yukon golds. Just wash well and mash with the skins for extra texture.
Instant Pot Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes
Equipment
- Instant Pot For pressure cooking meatloaf and potatoes
- Trivet or Foil Sling To hold the meatloaf above the potatoes
- Mixing bowls To mix meatloaf ingredients and mash potatoes
- Potato Masher For mashing cooked potatoes
Ingredients
- 1.25 pounds ground beef 80/20 for best flavor
- 1 cup breadcrumbs plain or seasoned
- 1 egg lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons ketchup plus more for glaze
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt divided
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2.5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes peeled and chopped
- 1 cup water for cooking potatoes
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ⅓ cup milk adjust as needed
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Shape into a loaf that fits inside the Instant Pot on a trivet.
- Place peeled and chopped potatoes into the bottom of the Instant Pot. Add water and a pinch of salt.
- Set the trivet or foil sling on top of the potatoes and place the shaped meatloaf on it.
- Seal the lid and pressure cook on HIGH for 25 minutes. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes.
- Remove the meatloaf and brush the top with extra ketchup. Broil for 3-5 minutes for caramelization, if desired.
- Drain any extra water from the potatoes. Add butter and milk, mash to desired consistency, and season to taste.
- Slice meatloaf and serve with mashed potatoes on the side.
Notes
- Use foil to shape the meatloaf if you don't have a trivet.
- For creamier potatoes, add more milk and mash longer.
For a garlicky twist on the potatoes, try the Instant Pot garlic mashed potatoes recipe for a creamy, aromatic side: garlic mashed potatoes for richer flavor. To lean into a vegetable-forward one-pot meal, see the Instant Pot green beans and potatoes recipe for a simple, hands-off side: green beans and potatoes for easy weeknights.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.
