Wet Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes

I generally make my Cheeseburger Meatloaf, but now and then I want something different. This version is hearty and rich.  Hopefully it will also become a family favorite of yours.

Wet Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes

Meatloaf:  
2 lbs. lean ground beef
4 Tbsp. catsup
1 Tbsp. salt
1 tsp. ground pepper
1 tsp. Basil
1 egg
10 Ritz Crackers, Crumbled finely
4 Tbsp. real mayonnaise
1/4 white onion, finely chopped
1/4 bell pepper, finely chopped

Mix all ingredients and bake at 375 degrees for 40 to 50 minutes or until cooked through.  I like to cook mine in a bread baking loaf so that it slices nicely

Gravy:

Pour off some of the meatloaf drippings into a small skillet.  Add 2 cups of water.  Make a slurry:  1/4 cup water + 2 heaping Tbsp. cornstarch and drizzle in the slurry into the mix, stirring continuously until thickens.  If it isn't thick enough, you can add more slurry.  If it is too thick, add more water.

Mashed Potatoes

6 medium/large potatoes, peeled and chopped into cubes
2 quarters water

Boil potatoes until completely done when a fork is inserted.  The key is to make sure they are very soft.  If you try to mash potatoes before they are done, they will be lumpy.

Drain and add 1/2 cup to 3/4 cup evaporated milk, 2 Tbsp. salt and 2 Tbsp. pepper.  Add 1/2 stick real butter. Mash with a mixer until smooth.  Add more milk if required.  

You are ready to pull your meal together. Place a slice of the Meatloaf on the plate and cover with gravy.  Scoop mashed potatoes on top.  Add more gravy if desired.

Yum Yum!  Enjoy!