Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole
Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole brings bold, comforting flavors to your table with minimal effort. This all-in-one dish combines the hearty satisfaction of meatloaf with the creamy richness of mashed potatoes.
Packed with ground beef, savory bacon, and a zesty BBQ sauce, it’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The Mexican blend cheese adds a gooey, melted finish that will leave everyone wanting more.
Whether for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this casserole promises to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s simple to prepare but delivers a comforting, flavorful meal that’s sure to impress.
Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole – Ingredients
Ground Beef: The heart of this dish, offering a rich, savory base that absorbs all the bold flavors of BBQ sauce and spices.
Premade Mashed Potatoes: A creamy, comforting layer that adds smooth texture and balances the meaty richness with its soft, buttery consistency.
BBQ Sauce: Infusing the meatloaf with a smoky, tangy flavor that complements the beef and elevates the entire dish.
Bacon Pieces: Crispy, flavorful bacon pieces provide a salty crunch, adding depth and a touch of indulgence.
Mexican Blend Cheese: Melted over the casserole, this cheese brings a gooey, golden finish that binds the flavors together with a deliciously cheesy bite.
Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole: Recipe Tips
- Use Lean Ground Beef for a Healthier Option: If you’re aiming for a leaner dish, opt for ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. This will slightly change the flavor profile but still keep the dish hearty and satisfying. Be sure to drain any excess fat from the meatloaf after baking to avoid a greasy casserole.
- Customize the Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the chili powder and BBQ sauce based on your spice tolerance. For a mild version, reduce the chili powder, or swap it out for paprika. You can also use a smoky BBQ sauce to add a more robust flavor to the meatloaf layer.
- Make Ahead and Freeze: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time, making it a great option for busy days. Assemble the casserole up until the broiling step, then cover it and freeze. When ready to cook, thaw it overnight and broil it just before serving for a quick, delicious meal.
What to Serve with Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole
- Crisp Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette will balance the rich and hearty flavors of the casserole. The crunch and freshness provide a nice contrast to the creamy potatoes and savory meatloaf.
- Garlic Bread or Crusty Rolls: Pair this casserole with a side of garlic bread or crusty rolls to help scoop up the cheesy goodness. The warm, buttery bread complements the casserole’s richness while offering a satisfying texture.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve your casserole alongside roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts. Their slightly caramelized, earthy flavors work well with the savory, smoky elements of the meatloaf and potatoes.
FAQ: Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole
- Can I use homemade mashed potatoes instead of premade ones? Yes, you can absolutely make your own mashed potatoes for a fresher taste. Just make sure they’re smooth and creamy, as this layer is key to balancing the richness of the meatloaf.
- Can I substitute the bacon with another ingredient? Yes, if you’re looking for a bacon alternative, try using turkey bacon or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Both options will add flavor and texture to the casserole.
- How do I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving for the best results. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent the cheese from overbrowning.
- Can I make this casserole without broiling it? While broiling creates a golden, bubbly cheese crust, you can skip the broiling step and bake the casserole at a slightly higher temperature to melt the cheese. However, broiling enhances the texture and flavor for an extra touch.
Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole
This Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is the perfect combination of savory flavors and comforting textures, making it an ideal choice for both casual dinners and special occasions. Its hearty appeal, brought together in one dish, is sure to satisfy any appetite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 1 cup Bacon Pieces
- 1 package of premade refrigerated Mashed Potatoes
- ½ large Onion finely chopped
- 1 cup Mexican Blend Cheese shredded
- 2 tsp Chili Powder
- ¼ cup BBQ Sauce
- ⅓ cup Bread Crumbs
- 1 large Egg
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F, ensuring that it’s ready for the perfect cooking environment.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, bread crumbs, BBQ sauce, egg, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Thoroughly mix all ingredients until they are well incorporated.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Press the meat mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish that has been greased to prevent sticking, ensuring it is evenly spread across the bottom.
- Bake the Meatloaf: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Drain the Fat: After baking, carefully drain any excess fat from the dish to maintain a cleaner, less greasy casserole.
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: While the meatloaf is baking, follow the instructions on the premade mashed potatoes package to warm and fluff them to a creamy consistency.
- Assemble the Casserole: Once the meatloaf is baked, evenly spread the prepared mashed potatoes over the top of the meatloaf layer.
- Add the Finishing Touches: Sprinkle the shredded Mexican blend cheese and bacon pieces generously over the mashed potatoes to add flavor and texture.
- Broil the Casserole: Adjust the oven to broil and return the casserole to the oven for a few minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is golden brown, creating a bubbly, delicious top.
Notes
Serve and Enjoy: Once the cheese is perfectly melted and browned, remove the casserole from the oven. Allow it to cool slightly before serving, and enjoy the savory layers of this flavorful dish.
