Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole

Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines classic meatloaf flavors with a creamy potato topping—often baked together in one dish for an all-in-one meal. Here’s a simple and flavorful recipe to try:

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🥩 Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf Layer:

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1 egg

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for topping)

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp pepper

For the Potato Layer:

• 3 cups mashed potatoes (fresh or leftover)

• 1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese

• 4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled

• Green onions or chives, chopped

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9 baking dish or similar casserole dish.

2. Make the Meatloaf Base:
   In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix.

3. Spread in Dish:
   Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the casserole dish.

4. Bake Meatloaf Base:
   Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until just cooked through.

5. Prepare Mashed Potato Layer:
   While meatloaf bakes, mix mashed potatoes with sour cream (or cream cheese), cheese, salt, and pepper until creamy.

6. Top with Potatoes:
   Carefully spread the mashed potatoes over the baked meatloaf layer. Top with additional cheese and crumbled bacon if desired.

7. Final Bake:
   Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

8. Garnish and Serve:
   Let sit for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Top with chopped green onions or chives.

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📝 Tips

• Want to spice it up? Add jalapeños or chipotle sauce to the meat mixture or mashed potatoes.

• Swap mashed potatoes with sweet potatoes for a Southern twist.

Would you like a printable recipe card or a variation for a specific diet (like low-carb or dairy-free)?