Description
Enjoy a hearty and comforting Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole, combining savory ground beef, flavorful spices, cheddar cheese, and creamy mashed potatoes topped with crispy bacon and green onions. This all-in-one casserole is perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Toppings and Casserole Finish
- 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided remaining from 1 cup total)
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon crumbles
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get ready for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Meatloaf Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix gently until all ingredients are just combined to avoid a dense meatloaf.
- Form Meatloaf Layer: Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or similar-sized dish. Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the dish to form a uniform layer.
- Add Barbecue Sauce: Spread 2 tablespoons of barbecue sauce evenly over the meatloaf layer to add flavor and moisture.
- Bake Meatloaf: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes. After baking, carefully drain any excess fat from the dish.
- Layer Mashed Potatoes: Evenly spread the prepared mashed potatoes over the partially baked meatloaf layer, creating a smooth top.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes, followed by bacon crumbles and chopped green onions.
- Bake Again: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before slicing and serving to allow flavors to meld and for easier slicing.
Notes
- You can use instant mashed potatoes to save time or make your own from scratch for extra flavor.
- Swap cheddar cheese for pepper jack if you prefer a little spicy kick.
- Add frozen corn or sautéed bell peppers to the meat mixture for added texture and flavor.
