The Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines the savory flavors of traditional meatloaf with the creamy richness of mashed potatoes, all topped with melted cheddar cheese and crispy onions. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup BBQ sauce
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared from about 2 pounds of potatoes)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup crispy fried onions
- Fresh chives, for garnish
Preparation
Step 1:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Step 2:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, BBQ sauce, ketchup, beaten eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 3:
Press the meat mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer.
Step 4:
Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf layer. Ensure the potatoes cover the meat completely to form a smooth top layer.
Step 5:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes.
Step 6:
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked (internal temperature of 160°F) and the potatoes are golden brown on top.
Step 7:
Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish the casserole with crispy fried onions and fresh chives before serving.
COOKING Note
Letting the casserole rest for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven will make it easier to slice and serve, as it allows the layers to set.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a side of green beans, a crisp salad, or steamed vegetables to complete the meal. For a bit of extra tang, consider serving with additional BBQ sauce or a dollop of sour cream on the side.
Tips
- To save time, prepare the mashed potatoes in advance or use high-quality store-bought mashed potatoes.
- For a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef, but keep in mind that this may alter the cooking time slightly.
- The addition of herbs like thyme or rosemary to the meat mixture can provide an extra layer of flavor.
Prep Time
- 20 minutes
Cooking Time
- 45 to 50 minutes
Total Time
- About 1 hour and 10 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 700-800 mg per serving
Conclusion
The Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is a hearty, fulfilling dish that brings together the flavors of meatloaf and mashed potatoes in a single, delicious casserole. It's a perfect dish for those seeking comfort food with a twist, offering a satisfying and complete meal in one dish.
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