Delight Your Taste Buds with Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole
Indulge in a hearty, flavor-packed dish that combines the comforting goodness of meatloaf with the irresistible appeal of creamy mashed potatoes. Our Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole recipe is a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Packed with savory flavors and satisfying textures, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Join us as we uncover the secrets behind this mouthwatering creation, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, and more.
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:
- Prepare Potatoes:
- Cook Ore-Ida® Steam n’ Mash® Cut Russet Potatoes according to package instructions. Once cooked, mash them with a potato masher or fork until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Mix Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, chopped onion, seasoned bread crumbs, Jack Daniel’s® Barbecue Sauce, lightly beaten egg, chili powder, salt, and evaporated milk. Mix until well combined.
- Form Meatloaf:
- Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared baking dish and shape it into a loaf shape.
- Prepare Topping:
- In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add crumbled bacon and crispy fried onions. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Assemble Casserole:
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf mixture in the baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the mashed potatoes.
- Add Topping:
- Drizzle the melted butter, bacon, and crispy fried onion mixture over the cheese.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Slice into portions and serve warm.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and mashed potatoes in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply assemble the casserole as instructed and bake as directed.
- Customize the Toppings: Feel free to get creative with the toppings! Add diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, or chopped cilantro for extra flavor and color.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the ground meat and replace it with cooked lentils or your favorite meat substitute for a vegetarian version of this casserole.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: Substitute the mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower for a low-carb alternative. Use sugar-free barbecue sauce and skip the breadcrumbs to reduce the carb content of the meatloaf mixture.
- Low-Carb Version: Reduce the amount of breadcrumbs used in the meatloaf mixture or replace them with almond flour for a lower-carb option. Use a sugar-free barbecue sauce to keep the sauce low in carbohydrates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead of fresh potatoes? A: Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes if you prefer. Follow the package instructions to prepare them before assembling the casserole.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole? A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer individual portions to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake in the oven until heated through.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese for the topping? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese or a combination of cheeses for the topping. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella would all work well in this recipe.
Treat your taste buds to a hearty and delicious meal with our Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole. With its savory meatloaf base, creamy mashed potato topping, and flavorful cheese and bacon topping, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or entertaining guests, this casserole is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Experience Comfort Food Bliss with Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole—a hearty and flavorful dish that’s guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and warm your soul. With its delicious combination of meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and savory toppings, this casserole is a deliciously comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste of home-cooked goodness like never before!
