Cheesy Potato Meatloaf Bake

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Begin by peeling the potatoes thoroughly to remove any blemishes or dirt. Cut them into thin, even slices — about 2 to 3 mm thick — to ensure they cook at the same rate throughout the dish. Set them aside in a bowl of water to prevent browning. Next, peel the onion and chop it as finely as possible. The goal is to integrate the onion seamlessly into the meat mixture so that it provides flavor without noticeable texture. Lastly, peel and crush the garlic cloves to a paste or fine mince for even distribution and maximum aroma.
2. Prepare the meat mixture: In a large mixing bowl, place the ground meat. Add the finely chopped onion, crushed garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Using clean hands or a sturdy spoon, mix the ingredients thoroughly. This step is crucial to create a well-bound mixture that holds its shape and remains tender once baked. The breadcrumbs and milk provide moisture, while the eggs act as a binder. Continue mixing until the texture becomes smooth and cohesive, with no visible streaks of unmixed ingredients.
3. Prepare the cheese: Depending on the type of cheese you’re using, slice it thinly or grate it coarsely. It should melt easily during baking and help form a rich, gooey layer inside the loaf as well as a golden crust on top. If using mozzarella, opt for low-moisture to prevent excess water in the final dish.
4. Assemble the meatloaf: Lightly grease a round baking dish or small oven-safe dish with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Begin by spreading a layer of the meat mixture evenly across the bottom. Follow with a single layer of potato slices, slightly overlapping them, then add a portion of the prepared cheese. Repeat these layers — meat, potato, cheese — pressing down lightly after each to compact the loaf and remove air pockets. End with a final layer of meat mixture, smoothing the top with a spatula or spoon.
5. Add the cheese topping: Scatter the remaining cheese generously over the top surface of the meatloaf. This final layer will melt and brown during baking to create a crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior. Drizzle lightly with olive oil to enhance browning and flavor.