Comfort Food Trio: Meatloaf, Fried Cabbage with Bacon, and Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

Comfort Food Trio

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Comfort Food Trio: The Family Dinner You’ll Want to Make Again and Again!

Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and your family craves a warm, hearty dinner that feels like a big culinary hug. Enter the Comfort Food Trio: Classic Meatloaf, Fried Cabbage with Bacon, and Cheesy Mashed Potatoes. This meal is cozy, satisfying, and perfect for creating memories around the dinner table. Let’s break down how to make it!

The Ingredients: A Trio of Flavors

Each dish in this trio shines on its own, but together they form a symphony of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

Classic Meatloaf:

  • 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Meatloaf Glaze:

  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Fried Cabbage with Bacon:

  • 6 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cheesy Mashed Potatoes:

  • 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step: Making the Comfort Food Trio

1. How to Make Meatloaf

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Mix all the meatloaf ingredients in a bowl until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
  3. Shape into a loaf, place in a pan, and top with half the glaze. Bake for 45 minutes.
  4. Add the remaining glaze and bake for another 15 minutes. Rest before slicing.

2. How to Make Fried Cabbage with Bacon

  1. Cook bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving drippings in the pan.
  2. Sauté onions until soft, then add cabbage and smoked paprika.
  3. Cook until the cabbage is tender. Add bacon back in and season with salt and pepper.

3. How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

  1. Boil potatoes until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot.
  2. Mash with butter, then stir in heavy cream and cheeses until smooth.
  3. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with parsley.

FAQs about the Comfort Food Trio

What’s the best way to make this meal ahead? Prepare the meatloaf and glaze the night before. You can also pre-shred the cabbage and boil the potatoes early to save time.

Can I substitute ingredients? Absolutely! Use ground turkey for a leaner meatloaf or swap heavy cream with milk in the potatoes.

What pairs well with this meal? A fresh green salad or some dinner rolls make great sides!

Why You’ll Love This Trio

The Comfort Food Trio is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Each bite is packed with flavor, from the smoky bacon to the creamy mashed potatoes. The best part? It’s easy to customize and guaranteed to please everyone at the table.

Ready to try this trio? Share your experience and favorite twists in the comments below! 🍽️

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