Description

Saddle up for a flavorful journey with this Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole recipe. Packed with ground beef, mashed potatoes, bacon, and cheese, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal that brings a taste of the Wild West to your dinner table.

Ingredients

1 lb. Ground beef

1 Package of premade refrigerated mashed potatoes

⅓ cup Bread crumbs

½ Large onion, chopped

¼ cup BBQ sauce

1 Large egg

2 tsp. Chili powder

1 cup Bacon pieces

1 cup Mexican blend cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare:

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

2. Mix Meatloaf Mixture:

In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, bread crumbs, BBQ sauce, egg, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

3. Bake Meatloaf:

Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Drain any excess fat.

4. Prepare Mashed Potatoes:

Meanwhile, cook the mashed potatoes according to package instructions until creamy and smooth.

5. Layer with Potatoes:

Spread the cooked mashed potatoes over the baked meatloaf mixture in the baking dish, creating an even layer.

6. Add Toppings:

Sprinkle shredded cheese and bacon pieces evenly over the mashed potatoes, creating a delicious topping.

7. Broil to Perfection:

Set the oven to broil. Place the casserole under the broiler for several minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bacon is crispy.

8. Serve and Enjoy:

Carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice and serve hot.

Notes

Add Veggies: Mix in diced bell peppers or mushrooms into the meatloaf mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheese blends such as sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a unique taste.

Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your taste preferences, adding more for extra heat or reducing for a milder flavor.

Make Ahead: Prepare the meatloaf mixture and mashed potatoes ahead of time, then assemble and bake when ready to serve for a quick and convenient meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes