Description
This hearty Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole combines two classic comfort foods into one delicious dish. Layers of seasoned ground beef meatloaf sit atop creamy mashed potatoes, creating a satisfying and filling meal that’s perfect for the whole family. Topped with gooey melted cheese and crispy bacon, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser for dinner or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Meatloaf Layer:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (optional for extra flavor)
For the Potato Layer:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (or crumbled cooked bacon)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven and prepare casserole dish:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish or spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
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Make the meatloaf layer:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until just combined.
- Press the meat mixture into the prepared casserole dish in an even layer.
- Optional: Brush the top of the meatloaf layer with BBQ sauce for extra flavor.
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Bake the meatloaf layer:
- Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake the meatloaf for 25-30 minutes or until it is cooked through and browned on top.
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Prepare the potato layer:
- While the meatloaf is baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the milk, butter, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream until well combined.
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Assemble the casserole:
- Once the meatloaf is done baking, remove the casserole dish from the oven.
- Carefully spread the mashed potatoes over the top of the meatloaf layer in an even layer.
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Add the topping:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and chopped green onions (if using) over the mashed potatoes.
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Bake the casserole:
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.
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Serve and enjoy:
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- You can make the mashed potatoes ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to assemble the casserole.
- Feel free to customize the meatloaf layer by adding your favorite vegetables like finely chopped bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor.
- For a spicier version, try adding some diced jalapeños to the meatloaf or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top of the mashed potatoes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes (25-30 minutes for meatloaf, 15-20 minutes for the casserole)
- Category: Casserole, Main Dish
- Method: Oven
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 50mg