Description
Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together the best of two classic meals: a savory meatloaf and a creamy, cheesy potato casserole. This all-in-one meal is perfect for feeding a hungry family or crowd, offering rich flavors and a satisfying combination of textures. The seasoned ground beef meatloaf is topped with creamy mashed potatoes, then baked until golden and delicious. It’s an easy-to-make, rustic recipe inspired by cowboy cooking traditions and southern comfort food.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Transfer the meatloaf mixture into the prepared baking dish and shape it into a rectangular loaf, making sure it fits snugly in the center.
Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes around the meatloaf, overlapping them slightly to create layers. Season the potatoes with salt and pepper to taste.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
After 45 minutes, remove the foil from the baking dish and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the meatloaf and potatoes.
Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the meatloaf is cooked through.
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Tips:
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables to the potato layer, such as carrots or peas.
For a spicy kick, mix some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the meatloaf mixture.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Enjoy your hearty and satisfying Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole!
Notes
-
- Feel free to add in extra ingredients to the mashed potato layer, such as shredded cheese, bacon bits, or green onions, for added flavor and texture.
- You can also mix in chopped bell peppers or jalapeños to the meatloaf for a southwestern kick.
- Make a healthier version by using ground turkey or chicken and substituting mashed cauliflower for potatoes.
- Serving Suggestions:
- This casserole pairs perfectly with light, fresh sides like steamed vegetables, cornbread, or a green salad.
- For a finishing touch, drizzle with barbecue sauce or top with a dollop of sour cream before serving.
- Make Ahead and Freezing:
- This dish can be assembled up to a day in advance and refrigerated until ready to bake. Alternatively, freeze the uncooked casserole for later use. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
- Storage:
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
- Kid-Friendly Tips:
- Simplify the spices in the meatloaf or make it cheesier to appeal to children’s palates. You can also serve it in smaller, fun portions by baking in muffin tins.