Description
This Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole combines a flavorful ground beef meatloaf base with a cheesy mashed potato layer, topped with bacon bits and melted cheddar cheese. A comforting American classic perfect for family dinners, featuring smoky barbecue sauce and a satisfying blend of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Base
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Potato Layer
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
Topping
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Extra barbecue sauce for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch or 11×7-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs, barbecue sauce, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Form Meatloaf Base: Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer that serves as the base for the casserole.
- Bake Meatloaf Base: Place the dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. Once done, carefully drain any excess grease from the dish.
- Prepare Potato Layer: While the meatloaf bakes, combine the prepared mashed potatoes with 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and chopped green onions if using. Mix thoroughly.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the mashed potato mixture evenly over the baked meatloaf base in the dish.
- Add Topping and Final Bake: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese on top and drizzle with extra barbecue sauce. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes after baking to set before cutting and serving.
Notes
- You can use store-bought mashed potatoes for convenience to save preparation time.
- Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the mashed potatoes enhances the flavor with a smoky, spicy kick.
