If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that brings together the best of classic flavors, Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is the dish for you! This recipe combines a deliciously seasoned meatloaf base with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and crispy bacon, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this dish delivers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors in every bite.
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared fresh or instant)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Base
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
- Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, forming an even layer.
- Spread a thin layer of barbecue sauce over the top for added flavor.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the meat is mostly cooked through.
Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the mashed potatoes by mixing together the mashed potatoes, sour cream, butter, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Remove the partially baked meatloaf from the oven and spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Sprinkle with crumbled bacon and chopped green onions for extra flavor and texture.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole
- Use freshly cooked mashed potatoes for a creamier texture.
- Swap out the cheese—pepper jack or gouda add a fun twist.
- Add diced jalapeños to the meatloaf for a spicy kick.
- Mix in some ranch seasoning with the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes! Assemble everything, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add an extra 10 minutes of baking time if it’s chilled.
2. Can I freeze this dish? Absolutely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
3. What side dishes pair well with this casserole? This dish is hearty, so lighter sides like a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw work well.
4. Can I use instant mashed potatoes? Yes, but for the best flavor and texture, add butter, sour cream, and shredded cheese to enhance them.
To make this dish keto-friendly, swap the breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds and replace the mashed potatoes with cauliflower mash. Use full-fat sour cream and cheese for extra richness.
Final Thoughts
Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is a comfort food classic that brings together the best of meatloaf and creamy potatoes in one dish. It’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!
Enjoy your meal!
