Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of classic meatloaf with creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes, you’re going to fall in love with this Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole Recipe. It’s a one-dish wonder that layers seasoned ground beef with fluffy mashed potatoes, all baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping a crowd-pleaser for dinner, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and downright satisfying in every forkful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role—from the flavorful ground beef mixture to the creamy potato topping and the optional garnishes that add color and texture. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

• 1 lb ground beef: Choose lean for the best texture without too much grease.
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatloaf layer and keeps it tender.
• 1/4 cup milk: Adds moisture and softness to the meat mixture.
• 1/4 cup ketchup: Brings a subtle tang and a touch of sweetness.
• 1 large egg: Acts as the glue to hold the meatloaf together.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides warm, savory depth to the meat.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds mild sweetness and enhances the meat’s flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings herbal notes to complement the beef.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning all layers perfectly.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle heat and sharpness.
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (optional): Elevates the meatloaf with smoky sweetness.
• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed: The creamy base for the topping, perfect for mashing.
• 1/2 cup milk: Makes the mashed potatoes smooth and luscious.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Richens the potatoes with velvety texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds an extra savory touch to the mash.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavor of the potatoes.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Lightly seasons the mash for warmth.
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Folded into the potatoes for gooey goodness.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Enhances creaminess and a slight tang.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sprinkled on top for that irresistible melting crust.
• 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (or crumbled cooked bacon): Adds smoky crunch to the garnish.
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional): Provides fresh color and subtle zing.

How to Make Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch casserole dish. This ensures your dish doesn’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. It’s always easier to prepare your cooking space first, so everything flows smoothly.

Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Layer

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until everything is incorporated but avoid overmixing to keep your meatloaf tender. Then press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared casserole dish.

Step 3: Add the Optional BBQ Sauce

If you love a smoky-sweet topping, brush the meatloaf with BBQ sauce. This simple step adds a rich glaze that caramelizes beautifully during baking.

Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf Layer

Place your casserole dish into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Look for a nicely browned top and make sure the meat is cooked through. This layer forms the savory foundation of your Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole Recipe.

Step 5: Prepare the Potato Layer

While the meatloaf bakes, bring salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add cubed potatoes and cook for about 10 to 15 minutes until tender. Drain well and return the potatoes to the pot for mashing.

Step 6: Mash the Potatoes

Add milk, butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Mash until luxuriously smooth, then stir in shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream. This creamy, cheesy mash will crown the meatloaf and bring comforting textures to the dish.

Step 7: Assemble the Casserole

Once the meatloaf is done, remove the casserole from the oven. Carefully spread the mashed potatoes on top in an even layer, covering the meat completely. This layering is what makes this Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole Recipe so effortlessly special.

Step 8: Add the Toppings and Bake Again

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and chopped green onions over the mashed potatoes. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese melts, bubbles, and turns slightly golden.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes once out of the oven. This allows everything to set and makes it easier to scoop out generous portions of this satisfying meal.

How to Serve Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly chopped green onions or parsley add a burst of color and brightness, balancing the richness in the Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole Recipe. For extra indulgence, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of BBQ sauce on each serving can elevate the flavors even more.

Side Dishes

Since this casserole is so hearty, pairing it with something light like a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted Brussels sprouts is perfect. These sides offer freshness and texture contrast that complement the dense layers of meat and potatoes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins and broil the tops for a minute to get a crispy cheese crust. You can also swap out cheddar cheese for pepper jack for some extra spice or add sauteed mushrooms on the meatloaf layer to deepen the flavor profile.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole Recipe, pack leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully the next day, making great lunch or dinner options.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well if you want to prepare it in advance. Wrap tightly with foil or place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat single servings in the microwave until warmed through or reheat the whole casserole in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for about 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly again.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat for the meatloaf layer?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can work, but be mindful that leaner meats might need a bit more moisture or binding agents like an extra egg or more breadcrumbs to keep the texture right.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute dairy milk and butter with plant-based alternatives, and use dairy-free cheese and sour cream to suit your dietary needs without sacrificing much flavor or creaminess.

Can I prepare the layers separately and assemble later?

You can cook and cool the meatloaf and mashed potatoes separately, then assemble just before baking the final casserole. This helps if you want to save time on the day you’re serving.

What can I do if I don’t have russet potatoes?

Other starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold are great substitutes. They mash smoothly and add a naturally buttery flavor that complements the casserole wonderfully.

How spicy is this Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole Recipe?

This recipe is mildly seasoned to please a broad range of palates, but you can easily add chili powder or cayenne for a little kick if desired.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the homey warmth and incredible flavor packed into this Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that invites everyone to gather around the table and share stories over plates piled high with savory meat and creamy potatoes. I can’t wait for you to make this recipe for your next cozy night in—trust me, it’s destined to become a family favorite!

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