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
Scale
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.
