Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together the savory flavors of classic meatloaf with a creamy, cheesy potato topping. Perfect for feeding a hungry family or for a cozy dinner, this casserole is packed with bold flavors and textures that everyone will love. With seasoned ground beef, mashed potatoes, and a generous layer of cheese, this meal is sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetites.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion (finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup green bell pepper (finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Potato Topping:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared, can be leftover or freshly made)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped green onions or fresh parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Base
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, chopped green bell pepper, BBQ sauce, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined, but do not overmix.
- Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, forming a flat layer.
Step 2: Prepare the Potato Topping
- In a separate bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, sour cream, milk, 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, softened butter, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the mashed potato mixture evenly over the meatloaf layer in the baking dish.
Step 3: Bake the Casserole
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the meatloaf is fully cooked through.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Step 4: Serve
- Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm. This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Notes
- Mashed Potatoes: You can use leftover mashed potatoes or make them fresh. Adding sour cream and milk helps to make them extra creamy and flavorful.
- BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, sweet flavor. You can also adjust the amount to suit your taste.
- Rest Time: Allowing the casserole to rest before serving helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut into portions.
Variations
Spicy Cowboy Casserole
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the meatloaf mixture for a spicy kick.
Cowboy Shepherd’s Pie
- Replace the cheddar cheese with shredded pepper jack and add a layer of mixed vegetables (like corn, carrots, and peas) between the meatloaf and potato layers for a cowboy twist on shepherd’s pie.
Bacon-Topped Casserole
- Add crumbled cooked bacon on top of the potato layer before baking for an extra smoky flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Can I Freeze Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
What Can I Serve With This Casserole?
This casserole is hearty on its own, but it pairs well with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or even cornbread for a complete meal.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is the perfect comfort food for any night of the week. With its savory meatloaf base and creamy, cheesy mashed potato topping, this dish is sure to be a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or for guests, it’s a satisfying meal that’s full of flavor.
Try out the different variations to suit your taste, and enjoy this hearty and comforting casserole that’s sure to bring everyone back for seconds!
