When it comes to satisfying, hearty meals, few things beat the comforting flavors of a cowboy meatloaf and potato casserole. This dish combines the rich, savory goodness of meatloaf with the creamy, indulgent layers of mashed potatoes, topped off with cheese, crispy onions, and a touch of smoky barbecue sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering, a weeknight dinner, or a special occasion, this casserole is sure to impress. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to leave everyone asking for seconds.
In this recipe, we’ll walk you through how to create this mouthwatering casserole from start to finish. You’ll get tips for perfecting the meatloaf base, making the potato topping extra creamy, and broiling everything to cheesy perfection. Ready to bring a little bit of cowboy flair to your dinner table? Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Preparation Overview
Total Time: 45 Minutes
This cowboy meatloaf and potato casserole is a quick and easy comfort food meal that only takes about 45 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights or when you want a hearty dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients List
Before we start cooking, let’s quickly review the ingredients required for this delicious cowboy meatloaf and potato casserole. These simple yet flavorful ingredients will come together to create a hearty and delicious dish that everyone will love.
- 1 pound of lean ground beef
- 3/4 cup of finely chopped onion
- 1/3 cup of seasoned dry breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup of Barbecue Sauce
- 1 lightly beaten egg
- 2 teaspoons of chili powder
- 3/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1 package of Potatoes
- 2/3 cup of canned evaporated milk
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/4 cup of canned crispy fried onions
- 2/3 cup of shredded Mexican-style cheese blend
Step-by-Step Directions
Now that we have everything ready, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these simple, easy-to-follow steps, and you’ll have your cowboy meatloaf and potato casserole ready in no time.
1. Meatloaf Base Preparation
The first step is to get the meatloaf base ready. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of lean ground beef, 3/4 cup of finely chopped onion, 1/3 cup of seasoned dry breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of Barbecue Sauce, 1 lightly beaten egg, 2 teaspoons of chili powder, and 3/4 teaspoon of salt.
Mix everything together until well combined. Once mixed, press the meat mixture into a greased baking dish, making sure the top is even and smooth. This forms the solid base of your casserole and will bake up into a tender, flavorful meatloaf.
2. Baking the Meatloaf
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. The meatloaf should be mostly cooked by this point, but you’ll want to drain off any excess fat before moving to the next step. Once you’ve drained the fat, switch the oven to broil for a few minutes to give the top of the meatloaf a little crisp and caramelization.
At this point, your meatloaf base should be golden brown and smelling amazing.
3. Potato Topping Preparation
While the meatloaf is baking, it’s time to prepare the creamy potato topping. Peel and chop the potatoes into cubes, then cook them in salted water for approximately 15 minutes, or until they are tender.
Once the potatoes are done, transfer them to a mixing bowl.Once the potatoes are done, transfer them to a mixing bowl. Add 2/3 cup of canned evaporated milk, 1 tablespoon of butter, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Mash everything together until smooth and creamy. The evaporated milk adds a rich texture while the butter and garlic powder bring extra flavor.
4. Assembly and Broiling
Once your meatloaf base is done baking and your potato topping is ready, it’s time to assemble the casserole. Spread the mashed potato mixture evenly over the cooked meatloaf. Be sure to cover the meatloaf entirely, pressing the potatoes down gently to form a solid layer.
Then, sprinkle 2/3 cup of shredded Mexican-style cheese blend over the top of the potato layer. This cheese will melt beautifully, adding a gooey, delicious topping to your casserole. Place the casserole under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling with a slight golden color on top.
5. Serving Instructions
After removing the casserole from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes to allow the layers to firm up, making it easier to slice into clean, even portions.
Serve the cowboy meatloaf and potato casserole hot, with extra barbecue sauce on the side if you like a little more tangy flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in this recipe?
Yes! You can easily substitute ground turkey for the ground beef if you prefer a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey may be a bit drier, so you might want to add a little extra barbecue sauce or a splash of broth to keep it moist.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time by assembling it fully, then covering it and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just bake it as directed, but keep in mind it may take a little longer to cook through if it’s cold from the fridge.
3. Can I freeze cowboy meatloaf and potato casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole! Simply prepare and bake it, then allow it to cool completely. Secure it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for optimal freshness.When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake until heated through.
4. How can I make the potato topping creamier?
To make the potato topping extra creamy, you can add more evaporated milk or even a dollop of sour cream. You can also use cream cheese for an even richer texture.
5. What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Try serving it with a green salad, steamed vegetables, or corn on the cob for a well-rounded meal. For a heartier side, you could also serve it with garlic bread or roasted vegetables.
6. How do I adjust the spiciness of this casserole?
If you want to make the casserole spicier, add more chili powder, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meatloaf mix. For a milder version, reduce the chili powder and skip the spicy toppings.
7. Can I use a different type of cheese for the topping?
Yes, feel free to swap the Mexican-style cheese blend for other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack. Just keep in mind that some cheeses melt differently, so choose one that melts well for a smooth, gooey topping.
8. How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this dish lighter, you can:
- Substitute ground beef with lean turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Swap out evaporated milk for low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative.
- Use whole wheat breadcrumbs for extra fiber.
- Reduce the amount of cheese or opt for a lighter cheese.
9. Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf mixture?
Yes, you can definitely add vegetables to the meatloaf base for extra flavor and nutrition. Try finely chopping mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini and mixing them in with the meatloaf mixture.
A Hearty Comfort Meal for Any Occasion
There you have it—the perfect recipe for a cowboy meatloaf and potato casserole that will quickly become a family favorite. With its rich, savory meatloaf base, creamy potato topping, and melted cheese, this dish is the ultimate comfort food that brings together bold flavors in one easy-to-make casserole. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or hosting a gathering, this casserole is sure to please.
The best part? It’s a one-pan wonder that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. So next time you’re craving something hearty, flavorful, and comforting, give this cowboy meatloaf and potato casserole a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
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