Nothing beats the comforting hug of a home-cooked meal, and this Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole Recipe delivers exactly that with hearty ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and melty cheddar cheese all baked together in one irresistible dish. It’s a family-friendly crowd-pleaser that combines the best parts of meatloaf and casserole into one hearty, flavor-packed dinner that feels like a warm cowboy welcome to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that work together to create a melody of flavors and textures—from juicy meat to velvety potatoes and the satisfying crunch of bacon. Each ingredient plays a key role, whether it’s adding seasoning, richness, or color to this delightful casserole.
- Ground beef, 85% lean: The juicy and flavorful foundation of this cowboy classic.
- Seasoned breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meat and keep it tender without drying out.
- Ketchup, divided: Adds a sweet tanginess that complements both the meat and potatoes.
- Worcestershire sauce: Infuses a savory depth and subtle umami to the meat layer.
- Large egg: Keeps everything together while adding moisture.
- Garlic powder: Brings a warm, mellow garlic flavor without overpowering.
- Onion powder: Enhances the meat with a gentle onion undertone.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that highlight all the flavors.
- Mashed potatoes (prepared or leftover): Creamy, smooth topping that makes this casserole extra comforting.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully, adding gooey richness and a pop of color.
- Chopped green onions: Provides freshness and a mild onion bite.
- Cooked bacon, crumbled: Adds smoky crunch and savory goodness.
How to Make Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Meat Mixture
Start by heating your oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with seasoned breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently until just combined to keep the meat tender and juicy. This simple but flavorful blend is the hearty base of your cowboy meatloaf.
Step 2: Form the Meat Layer and Bake
Press the meat mixture evenly into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish. This even layer ensures consistent cooking and helps the flavors meld together. Bake it uncovered for about 20 to 25 minutes until it’s mostly cooked through and some of the fat has rendered out. Once done, carefully drain off any excess grease to keep the casserole deliciously satisfying but not greasy.
Step 3: Add Mashed Potatoes and Toppings
Spread the creamy mashed potatoes over the baked meat layer in one smooth, even layer. Drizzle the remaining ketchup on top to give a little sweet tang, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and crumbled bacon. These layers build the signature rich and comforting texture that makes this dish so popular.
Step 4: Final Bake
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and slightly golden. Give it a five-minute rest once out of the oven. This lets everything set nicely and makes it easier to serve.
How to Serve Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or extra green onions makes a perfect final touch. Not only do these add a fresh pop of color, but they also bring a hint of brightness that balances the rich, meaty flavors of this casserole.
Side Dishes
This is a full-flavored, filling dish on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, try pairing it with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or perhaps some steamed green beans. These sides add a lovely contrast in texture and freshness, making the meal feel well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for personal portions that impress at dinner parties. Layering small servings allows everyone to enjoy all the flavors in perfect harmony, and adding a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of barbecue sauce on top can bring an additional flavor boost that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your family has enjoyed this hearty casserole, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making for easy next-day meals or snacks.
Freezing
If you want to plan ahead, you can freeze the fully assembled but unbaked casserole. Cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking according to the original instructions.
Reheating
To reheat, place portions in a microwave-safe dish and heat for a few minutes until warm throughout, or reheat in an oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly. This keeps the cheesy, meaty goodness intact without drying out the dish.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative that works well, though it may result in a slightly different flavor and texture. Adding a bit more seasoning and moisture can help enhance the taste when using turkey.
What’s the best way to make the mashed potatoes for this casserole?
You can use creamy homemade mashed potatoes or even high-quality store-bought ones. Make sure they are smooth and well-seasoned since they become the comforting topping that brings everything together.
Can I add vegetables to the meat mixture?
Absolutely! Finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or even grated carrots can be stirred into the meat mixture to add extra flavor and nutrition without overpowering the classic cowboy taste.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
For a spicy kick, try mixing some diced jalapeños into the meat mixture or sprinkle sliced jalapeños on top before the final bake. It adds a lively heat that pairs wonderfully with the creamy potatoes and smoky bacon.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap out the regular seasoned breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers, and double-check that your other ingredients, like Worcestershire sauce, are gluten-free as well.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving an easy, hearty meal that feels like a warm cowboy hug, this Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole Recipe is your new go-to. With its inviting layers of tender meat, creamy potatoes, melty cheese, and crispy bacon, it’s a guaranteed hit any night of the week. Don’t wait to bake up this delicious comfort food—it’s sure to become a cherished favorite you’ll make again and again.
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Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using GF breadcrumbs)
Description
This Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is a hearty American comfort food combining seasoned ground beef with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions. Perfect for a satisfying main course, it’s baked to golden perfection and topped with a tangy ketchup drizzle for added flavor.
Ingredients
Meatloaf
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef, 85% lean
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared or leftover)
- 1/3 cup ketchup (remaining)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the meatloaf and casserole.
- Prepare Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, seasoned breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix just until all ingredients are evenly incorporated without overworking the meat.
- Form Meatloaf Layer: Press the meat mixture evenly into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish creating a uniform layer for baking.
- Bake Meatloaf: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the meat is mostly cooked through and fat has rendered. Carefully remove from oven and drain any excess grease from the dish.
- Add Toppings: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the baked meat layer. Drizzle the remaining 1/3 cup ketchup over the mashed potatoes, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and crumbled bacon on top.
- Bake Again: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly and golden.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving, letting flavors meld and making it easier to portion.
Notes
- You can use instant mashed potatoes or make homemade mashed potatoes depending on your preference and time.
- For a spicier variation, add chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture or sprinkle them on top before baking.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free if needed.
