Indulge in Hearty Comfort with Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole
Prepare to embark on a culinary journey filled with the hearty flavors of the Wild West with our Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole. This comforting dish combines the classic elements of meatloaf and mashed potatoes into one mouthwatering casserole, perfect for satisfying even the heartiest of appetites. Whether you’re craving a cozy family dinner or looking to impress guests at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Join us as we delve into the savory depths of this cowboy-inspired creation, exploring every aspect from the tender meatloaf to the creamy mashed potatoes, all topped off with a smoky barbecue sauce glaze. Plus, we’ll cover FAQs, cooking notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb adaptations for those with dietary preferences.
Ingredients:
- 1 package Ore-Ida® Steam n’ Mash® Cut Russet Potatoes
- 1 pound ground lean meat (beef or turkey)
- 3/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup seasoned bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup Jack Daniel’s® Barbecue Sauce, Honey Smokehouse™
- 1 egg lightly beaten
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 2/3 cup evaporated milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup crumbled real bacon
- 1/4 cup crispy fried onions, canned
- 2/3 cup Mexican blend cheese, shredded
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Ore-Ida® Steam n’ Mash® Cut Russet Potatoes according to package instructions. Once cooked, spread them evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, seasoned bread crumbs, Jack Daniel’s® Barbecue Sauce, beaten egg, chili powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Press the meat mixture evenly over the layer of mashed potatoes in the baking dish, forming a meatloaf base.
- In a small saucepan, heat the evaporated milk and butter over medium heat until the butter is melted. Pour the mixture evenly over the meatloaf.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon, crispy fried onions, and shredded Mexican blend cheese over the top of the meatloaf.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Slice and serve this hearty Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For added flavor, consider mixing in diced bell peppers or minced garlic with the meatloaf mixture.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, swap the regular chili powder for chipotle chili powder or add a dash of hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture.
- Customize the toppings to your liking by adding sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or green onions along with the bacon and cheese.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground meat with plant-based ground meat alternatives and omit the bacon. You can also use vegetable broth instead of evaporated milk for the sauce.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions: For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here are some adjustments you can make to create a keto-friendly version of Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole:
- Replace the seasoned bread crumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds to lower the carb content.
- Use sugar-free barbecue sauce or make your own keto-friendly barbecue sauce using tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, and low-carb sweetener.
- Substitute the mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower or a cauliflower mash for a low-carb alternative.
- Increase the fat content by adding extra butter or drizzling the meatloaf with melted butter before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead of Ore-Ida® Steam n’ Mash®? A: Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes as a convenient alternative. Follow the package instructions to prepare them and spread them evenly in the baking dish before adding the meatloaf mixture.
Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake it later? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly with aluminum foil, and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply adjust the baking time as needed to ensure the meatloaf is cooked through.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover portions of Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole for future enjoyment. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
In conclusion, Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish that brings the flavors of the Old West to your dinner table. With its tender meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, and flavorful toppings, it’s a meal that’s sure to please even the toughest cowboy (or cowgirl). Whether you’re serving it up for a family dinner or sharing it with friends at a potluck, this casserole is a winner every time. Plus, with our keto and low-carb adaptations, you can enjoy all the deliciousness of this cowboy classic while staying true to your dietary goals. So saddle up and give this Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole a try – it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection!
