Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole Recipe
There’s something irresistibly comforting about a warm, hearty casserole, and our Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole recipe might just become your next family favorite. This dish effortlessly combines savory ground beef with creamy mashed potatoes, capturing the essence of home-cooked goodness. By layering these simple yet delightful ingredients, you’re setting the stage for a meal that everyone will remember long after the plates are clean.
I recall the first time I made this recipe during a chilly autumn evening. My grandmother was visiting, and I wanted to prepare something that reminded her of our family gatherings. As the casserole baked, its aroma filled the kitchen with nostalgia and warmth. Seeing her face light up with the first bite was priceless, making that evening an unforgettable culinary triumph in our home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a crowd pleaser, perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. It’s not only delicious but also remarkably practical, combining easily accessible ingredients with straightforward preparation. The harmonious marriage of seasoned meat and creamy potatoes creates a textural delight that’s filling and fulfilling. Plus, cooking it in one dish saves time on cleanup, leaving more room for familial bonds over dinner.
Ingredients Notes
To create the perfect Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole, you’ll need quality ground beef—opt for an 80/20 blend for the right balance of flavor and moisture. For the mashed potatoes, Yukon Golds are ideal because of their naturally buttery taste. If you’re missing an ingredient, ground turkey can be a suitable substitute for beef and you can add herbs like thyme to the potatoes for extra zest.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Begin by preparing your mashed potatoes. Peel and dice the potatoes, then boil them in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Step 2
While the potatoes are boiling, mix the ground beef with diced onions, breadcrumbs, an egg, and your preferred seasonings in a large bowl. Use your hands to incorporate everything evenly.
Step 3
Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter and cream until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Step 4
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread the ground beef mixture evenly across the bottom. Layer the mashed potatoes on top, smoothing out with a spatula for an even layer.
Step 5
Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and the edges of the mashed potatoes start to brown. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Storage Options
To store leftovers, cover the casserole with aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, portion the casserole into individual servings and freeze them. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator then bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Variations & Substitutions
This recipe can easily be tailored to your dietary needs. Swap out traditional breadcrumbs for gluten-free options or use low-fat cheese for a lighter version. To introduce a new flavor dimension, consider adding a spoonful of barbecue sauce to the meat mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole at your next casual family dinner or bring it to a potluck. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. For a little extra indulgence, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! This casserole can be assembled a day ahead. Simply cover it tightly with foil and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake it, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
What can I do if my mashed potatoes are too runny? If your mashed potatoes end up with too much liquid, try cooking them over low heat on the stove while stirring constantly. The steam will help evaporate excess moisture. Alternatively, you can add a bit of instant potato flakes to thicken it up.
How can I spice it up? To add a bit of a kick, you might include diced jalapeños in the meat mixture or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the potatoes. This will turn up the heat while complementing the savory elements of the dish.
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Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds ground beef lean
- 1 cup onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1 cup ketchup divided
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 pounds potatoes peeled and cubed
- 0.5 cup milk
- 0.25 cup butter
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, bread crumbs, 1/2 cup of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the remaining ketchup over the top of the meatloaf.
- In a large pot, boil potatoes until tender. Drain and return to the pot.
- Add milk and butter to the potatoes and mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spread the mashed potatoes over the meatloaf.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
