Oh my goodness, are you ready to discover your new favorite comfort food? This Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is like a warm hug in casserole form! Let me tell you why this recipe has become my family’s most requested dinner…
Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole Recipe
You know those recipes that just make everyone’s eyes light up when you mention them? This is definitely one of those! Here’s why this casserole deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation:
Budget-friendly while still feeling special enough for company.
- It’s the ultimate make-ahead meal! Prep it in the morning, pop it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready.
- The combination of juicy meatloaf and creamy potatoes is absolutely irresistible.
- Perfect for busy families – it reheats beautifully for leftovers.
- Customizable to suit different dietary needs and preferences.
Ingredients for Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole
Before we get cooking, let’s talk about the ingredients you’ll need. The beauty of this dish is its simplicity. You likely have most of these ingredients in your kitchen already!
For the Meatloaf Layer:
- 2 pounds of ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
For the Potato Layer:
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (use leftover mashed potatoes or make fresh)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional Toppings:
- 6 strips crispy bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Additional shredded cheese for topping
Tip: You can swap ground beef for turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option.
Equipment You’ll Need
Having the right equipment makes this recipe even easier to prepare. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing bowls
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Spatula
- Masher or hand mixer
How to Make Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole
Ready to get started? Follow these step-by-step instructions for a foolproof casserole.
1. Prepare the Meatloaf Layer
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything well until the ingredients are evenly combined.
- Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of your baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the meatloaf is partially cooked. While it’s baking, prepare the mashed potato layer.
2. Make the Mashed Potato Layer
- If using fresh potatoes, boil them until tender, then mash with butter and milk until creamy. Season with salt to taste.
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the partially cooked meatloaf layer.
3. Add Toppings and Bake
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.
- Add crumbled bacon and chopped green onions, if desired.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions for Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole
Cowboy meatloaf casserole is a meal in itself, but you can serve it with some sides to round out your dinner. Here are a few ideas:
- Fresh green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Cornbread or dinner rolls
Nutritional Information for Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole
Hey there, fellow food lovers! I’ve put together this handy nutrition table to help you track what’s in each delicious serving of our cowboy casserole. Each portion is based on an 8-serving casserole, and boy, is it packed with goodness!
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 485 kcal | – | A hearty portion that’ll keep you satisfied! |
| Protein | 28g | 56% | Thanks to our quality ground beef and cheese |
| Carbohydrates | 35g | 12% | Those creamy Yukon Gold potatoes at work |
| Fat | 26g | 33% | Healthy fats from our beef and dairy |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% | From our veggie additions |
| Iron | 3.6mg | 15% | Beef is an excellent iron source |
| Calcium | 260mg | 20% | That gorgeous melty cheese layer |
| Vitamin D | 2.1mcg | 10% | Dairy does it again! |
| Potassium | 820mg | 17% | Potatoes are potassium powerhouses |
| Sodium | 680mg | 29% | Adjust salt to your taste |
Pro Tips for Nutrition:
- Make it lighter by using lean ground beef
- Boost the fiber by adding veggies to the meatloaf
- Control portions by using a measuring cup to serve
- Need to reduce calories? Try my cauliflower-potato mix trick!
Remember, friends – this is comfort food that’s actually pretty balanced! You’ve got your protein, carbs, and healthy fats all in one delicious package. And those leftovers? They’re perfect for meal prep!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the secret to moist meatloaf?
The key to a moist meatloaf is adding moisture-rich ingredients like eggs, milk, ketchup, and sautéed onions. The breadcrumbs also play a role by soaking up the liquid and holding it in the meatloaf. Avoid overmixing the meat, as that can make it dense and dry.
Why don’t you want to cook the meatloaf in the loaf pan?
Cooking meatloaf in a loaf pan traps grease, making the meatloaf soggy. Instead, shape it by hand and cook it on a baking sheet or in a shallow dish. This allows the excess grease to drain away, giving you a better texture and caramelized edges.
Why put eggs in meatloaf?
Eggs are the binder that holds all the ingredients together, preventing the meatloaf from falling apart. They also add moisture and richness, improving the overall texture.
Why milk instead of water in meatloaf?
Milk adds richness, flavor, and moisture to the meatloaf. It also helps soften the breadcrumbs, which makes the meatloaf tender. Using water won’t give you the same creamy texture and might leave the meatloaf dry.
Why Did My Potatoes Turn Out Gummy?
Remember to use warm (not hot) milk and don’t overmix.
How Do I Keep the Meatloaf Moist?
Don’t skip the breadcrumbs and eggs – they’re crucial for moisture retention.
Conclusion
This French Onion Soup Rice recipe is a perfect addition to your meal rotation. It’s flavorful, easy to prepare, and sure to be a hit with your family. Try it out and let us know what you think!
Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Description
This hearty, ranch-seasoned meatloaf topped with creamy mashed potatoes and melty cheese is the ultimate comfort food. A perfect all-in-one dinner that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Potato Topping
- 4 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine all meatloaf ingredients. Mix thoroughly but don’t overmix.
- Press meatloaf mixture into prepared baking dish, forming an even layer.
- Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 20 minutes.
- Drain potatoes and return to pot. Add butter, sour cream, and milk. Mash until smooth.
- Spread mashed potatoes over meatloaf mixture.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 1 hour or until meatloaf is cooked through and cheese is golden brown.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep it tender
- Test doneness with a meat thermometer (160°F)
- Can be assembled ahead and refrigerated before baking
- Perfect for meal prep
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 650
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 39g
