Description
A hearty and comforting Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole combining a flavorful ground beef meatloaf base with creamy mashed potatoes topped with cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions. Perfect for a family dinner, this dish bakes all the layers in one casserole for easy preparation and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
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
Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (or crumbled cooked bacon)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)
Instructions
- 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 to prevent sticking.
- 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 gently just until ingredients are combined to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Shape the meatloaf layer: Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish to form a solid base layer.
- Optional BBQ glaze: Brush the top of the meatloaf layer with BBQ sauce if desired for added smoky sweetness.
- Bake the meatloaf: Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake the meatloaf for 25-30 minutes, or until it is cooked through and browned on top.
- Cook the potatoes: While the meatloaf bakes, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook for 10-15 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.
- Mash the potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add milk, butter, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, then mash until smooth and creamy.
- Add cheese and sour cream: Stir shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream into the mashed potatoes until fully incorporated and creamy.
- Assemble casserole: Once the meatloaf layer is done, remove the casserole dish from the oven. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf layer.
- Add the topping: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and optional chopped green onions evenly over the mashed potato layer.
- Bake again: Return the casserole to the oven and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Serve and enjoy: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a leaner meatloaf, substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Customize toppings by adding sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions.
- Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave.
- If you prefer spicier flavors, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the meat mixture.
