Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole – A Hearty, Cheesy Delight Packed with Bold Flavors

Get ready for the ultimate comfort food mash-up with this Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole! This dish combines savory meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheese into one mouthwatering casserole that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a hearty, satisfying meal that’s easy to put together.

Scroll down for the full recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole

Who can resist the combination of juicy meatloaf, fluffy mashed potatoes, and gooey cheese? This dish takes all your favorite comfort foods and layers them into one easy-to-make casserole. The added BBQ sauce and chili powder give it a smoky, slightly spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the creamy mashed potatoes and crispy bacon topping. It’s a fun and delicious twist on a traditional meatloaf, perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or serving as a weeknight family meal.

Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole

This casserole is a meat-and-potatoes lover’s dream! The ground beef meatloaf is seasoned with BBQ sauce, chili powder, and onions for a rich, smoky flavor, while the creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and bacon pieces add layers of indulgence. The combination of textures—from the soft potatoes to the crispy bacon—makes every bite a delight.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings):

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 790mg
• Fiber: 2g

This filling and flavorful casserole is perfect for satisfying those comfort food cravings without being overly heavy.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Serve your Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole with a side of steamed veggies, like green beans or broccoli, to balance out the richness of the dish. You can also pair it with a fresh salad for some added crunch. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, add a side of warm dinner rolls or cornbread to round out the meal!

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Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions, or place the entire casserole back in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well—just wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Fun Fact: The Origins of Meatloaf

Meatloaf has been a beloved comfort food in American homes for centuries, but its roots actually trace back to ancient Rome! Early versions were made with ground meats, spices, and breadcrumbs, much like the meatloaves we enjoy today. This Cowboy Meatloaf adds a modern twist with the addition of BBQ flavors, making it a hearty meal with a little extra flair.

Cooking Tips

• Customize the Potatoes: If you want to go the extra mile, try making homemade mashed potatoes instead of using pre-made ones. You can even add garlic or chives for an extra burst of flavor.
• Crisp Up the Bacon: To ensure the bacon stays nice and crispy, fry the pieces beforehand rather than using pre-cooked bacon bits.
• Broiling Perfection: Keep a close eye on the casserole while broiling to avoid burning the cheese. You want it bubbly and lightly golden.

Optional Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add some jalapeños to the meat mixture or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the top for a spicier version of this dish.
• Cheese Swap: Try using sharp cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Veggie Boost: Sneak some extra veggies into the meatloaf by adding finely chopped bell peppers or shredded carrots.

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Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 package premade refrigerated mashed potatoes
• ⅓ cup bread crumbs
• ½ large onion, chopped
• ¼ cup BBQ sauce
• 1 large egg
• 2 tsp. chili powder
• 1 cup bacon pieces
• 1 cup Mexican blend cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. • 1 lb ground beef, ⅓ cup bread crumbs, ½ large onion, ¼ cup BBQ sauce, 1 large egg, 2 tsp chili powder, Salt and pepper
3. Mix the meatloaf ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, chopped onion, BBQ sauce, egg, chili powder, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well blended.
4. Shape and bake: Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked through.
5. Prepare the mashed potatoes: While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the premade mashed potatoes according to the package instructions until they’re warm and creamy.
6. Drain excess fat: Once the meatloaf is done baking, carefully drain any excess fat from the baking dish to prevent greasiness.
7. Layer the casserole: Spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the baked meatloaf.
8. Add cheese and bacon: Sprinkle the shredded Mexican blend cheese and bacon pieces evenly over the top of the mashed potatoes.
9. • 1 cup bacon pieces, 1 cup shredded cheese
10. Broil the casserole: Switch your oven to broil and return the casserole to the oven for a few minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly, with a golden brown top.
11. Serve and enjoy: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy your hearty Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole!

Final Thoughts

This Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors. It’s an easy way to elevate traditional meatloaf into something extra special. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a regular favorite in your household!