Saddle Up for Texas Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole: A Hearty Recipe That Hits the Spot!

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In the vast landscapes of Texas, where the spirit of the cowboy still rides strong, there's a dish that embodies the heart and soul of Texan comfort food: the Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole. This dish isn't just a meal; it's a tribute to the rugged, flavorful cuisine that defines the Lone Star State. Imagine sinking your fork into a savory meatloaf topped with creamy mashed potatoes and finished with a crispy layer of fried onions. It's the kind of food that warms you from the inside out, perfect for a hearty family dinner or a weekend gathering with friends.

The Texan Take on a Classic Comfort Dish

Texas cuisine is known for its bold flavors and generous portions, and this Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is no exception. Ground beef seasoned with sweet honey barbecue sauce and chili powder gives the meatloaf a distinctive Texan flair. Meanwhile, a topping of mashed potatoes enriched with butter, evaporated milk, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a creamy contrast. To finish it off, a layer of crispy fried onions and melted Mexican-style shredded cheese mix provides the perfect crunch. This dish captures the essence of Texas cooking—simple, filling, and bursting with flavor.

Recipe: Texas Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 3/4 cup finely chopped yellow onions
• 1/3 cup seasoned dry bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup sweet honey barbecue sauce (like Kraft)
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 (24-ounce) package Ore-Ida Steam n’ Mash Russet potatoes
• 1 tablespoon butter or margarine
• 1 (5-ounce) can evaporated milk
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 cup bacon bits
• 1/4 cup French fried onions
• 2/3 cup Mexican style shredded cheese mix

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and prepare a 9-inch square baking dish with cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onions, bread crumbs, barbecue sauce, beaten egg, and chili powder. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
3. Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, forming an even layer.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
5. While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the mashed potatoes according to the package instructions. Once done, transfer them to a bowl and add the butter, evaporated milk, chopped parsley, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth and creamy. Stir in the bacon bits and French fried onions just before layering.
6. When the meatloaf is ready, remove it from the oven and turn on the broiler. Spread the mashed potato mixture over the top of the meatloaf, smoothing it into an even layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheese mix over the potatoes.
7. Place the dish under the broiler, about 4 inches from the heat source, and broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Allow the casserole to rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

A True Taste of Texas

The Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is more than just a meal—it's a slice of Texan tradition served on a plate. With every bite, you're greeted by the robust flavors of seasoned beef, the creamy comfort of mashed potatoes, and the satisfying crunch of melted cheese and fried onions. It’s a dish that embodies the warmth and heartiness of Texas home cooking. Whether you're feeding a hungry crowd or simply craving some good old-fashioned comfort food, this casserole is sure to satisfy your appetite and bring a little bit of Texas to your table.

You can find a great Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole recipe that combines hearty ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and a variety of toppings like crispy fried onions and melted cheese. This dish is perfect for a comforting family meal and can be customized with different ingredients to suit your taste.

Key Tips for the Perfect Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole

1. Choosing the Right Ingredients: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and moisture. This ratio helps prevent the meatloaf from becoming too dry or greasy​(Masters of Kitchen).
2. Layering and Baking: After preparing the meatloaf and mashed potatoes, layer the potatoes on top of the meatloaf, add shredded cheese, and finish with a sprinkle of French fried onions. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly​(Masters of Kitchen).
3. Making Ahead and Storing: This dish can be prepared ahead of time by assembling it without baking, then covering and refrigerating it for up to two days. When you're ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it's coming straight from the fridge​(Masters of Kitchen).
4. Variations: For a healthier twist, you can substitute ground turkey for beef or add veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition​(Savory Discovery).

For more details and the full recipe, you can check out the Insanely Good Recipes and Masters of Kitchen websites, which provide step-by-step instructions and additional tips for making this delicious dish.