Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the comfort of this cowboy meatloaf and potato casserole! Growing up, this dish was a staple in my home, and there’s just something so heartwarming about it. The savory smell of the meatloaf baking away in the oven, combined with the creamy mashed potatoes bubbling beneath a blanket of melted cheese, always brought my family together at the dinner table. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug, perfect for cozy family gatherings or a chilly evening. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved comfort food!

Ingredients for Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole

Gather your ingredients for this hearty cowboy meatloaf and potato casserole! You’ll need:

1 lb ground beef: The star of the show, providing a rich flavor and hearty texture.
1 cup breadcrumbs: These help bind everything together and give a lovely texture.
1/2 cup milk: Adds moisture to the meatloaf, keeping it tender.
1/4 cup ketchup: Essential for flavor and a bit of sweetness.
1 egg: This helps to hold the meatloaf together.
1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors.
1/2 tsp black pepper: Just the right amount of kick!
1/2 tsp garlic powder: For that extra depth of flavor.
2 cups mashed potatoes: Creamy and dreamy, they sit atop the meatloaf.
1 cup shredded cheese: I love using cheddar for that melty goodness.
1/2 cup chopped onions: Adds sweetness and texture.
1/2 cup chopped bell pepper: For a pop of color and flavor.

Just grab these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to a delicious, comforting meal!

How to Prepare Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole

Preheat and Prepare

First things first, let’s get that oven nice and hot! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab your favorite baking dish and give it a light spray with cooking oil or a quick rub of butter to keep everything from sticking. Trust me, you’ll want to make sure it’s ready for all that deliciousness!

Mix the Ingredients

Now, let’s dive into making the meatloaf! In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, chopped onions, and bell pepper. I like to use my hands for this part; it’s the best way to ensure everything gets mixed together evenly. Just squish it all together until it’s well combined—don’t be shy! You want to make sure every bite is packed with flavor.

Shape and Bake

Once your mixture is well combined, it’s time to shape it! Form it into a loaf and place it in your prepared baking dish. Next, spread those creamy mashed potatoes right on top of the meatloaf—this is where the magic happens! Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese over everything. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the cheese is bubbling. Oh, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely irresistible!

Tips for Success

Use lean ground beef: This helps avoid excess grease in your casserole.
Don’t overmix: Combine the ingredients just until mixed to keep the meatloaf tender.
Let it rest: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing to help it hold its shape.
Customize the veggies: Feel free to add other favorites like celery or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition!
Experiment with cheeses: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a fun twist!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s chat about the nutritional side of this cowboy meatloaf and potato casserole! Keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and the brands you choose, so the values provided are just typical estimates.

For one slice of this hearty casserole, you can expect approximately:

Calories: 350
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 70mg

So, whether you’re enjoying this comforting dish for a family meal or a cozy night in, it’s good to know what you’re fueling your body with!

FAQ About Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole

Got questions about this cowboy meatloaf and potato casserole? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!

Can I use turkey instead of beef? Absolutely! Ground turkey works well for a lighter version, just keep an eye on moisture.

What if I don’t have breadcrumbs? No problem! You can substitute crushed crackers or even oats in a pinch.

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Prepare everything, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready!

Is it okay to freeze leftovers? Definitely! Just slice it, wrap it well, and freeze for up to 2 months.

How can I spice it up? Add your favorite spices or hot sauce to the meat mixture for an extra kick!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ultimate comfort food: This cowboy meatloaf and potato casserole is the definition of hearty deliciousness.
Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
Family-friendly: It’s a meal that pleases both kids and adults alike!
Leftover magic: It tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
Flavor explosion: The combination of savory meatloaf, creamy potatoes, and gooey cheese is simply irresistible!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To store any leftovers of this delicious cowboy meatloaf and potato casserole, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or place the whole casserole back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Trust me, it still tastes fantastic!

Serving Suggestions

To round out your cowboy meatloaf and potato casserole meal, I love serving it with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. You can also add some roasted vegetables or a side of buttery corn for a pop of color and flavor. And don’t forget some fresh, crusty bread to soak up all those delicious juices!

For more delicious recipes, check out our all recipes page!

For a great side dish, consider making honey-glazed carrots to complement your meal.

Learn more about the nutritional benefits of ground beef for a well-rounded meal.

Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole: 5 Comforting Delights

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty cowboy meatloaf and potato casserole dish.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onions, and bell pepper.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
Spread the mashed potatoes over the meatloaf.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
Bake for 1 hour or until the meatloaf is cooked through.

Notes

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Serve with additional ketchup if desired.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 350
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: cowboy meatloaf, potato casserole, comfort food

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