01 -
Preheat oven to 190°C. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just incorporated.
02 -
Evenly press the meat mixture into the base of a greased 23x33 cm baking dish. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until mostly set. Remove and carefully drain excess fat if needed.
03 -
As the meatloaf bakes, cook diced potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain, then mash with butter, milk or cream, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
04 -
Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the partially baked meatloaf. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the top, then scatter crumbled bacon over the cheese.
05 -
Return dish to the oven and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbling. Rest for 5 minutes, garnish with chopped chives or thyme, and serve with warm brown gravy if desired.