Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole

Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the best of meatloaf and loaded mashed potatoes. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner, offering layers of savory meat, creamy potatoes, and a cheesy, bacon-topped finish. The addition of BBQ sauce and chili powder gives the meatloaf a tangy and slightly spicy kick, making it a standout dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 package of 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
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:

• In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, bread crumbs, BBQ sauce, egg, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

1. Form and Bake the Meatloaf:

• Press the meat mixture evenly into a well-greased 9×9-inch baking dish.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through.
• Carefully drain any excess fat from the baking dish.

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

• Cook the premade mashed potatoes according to the package instructions.

1. Assemble the Casserole:

• Spread the cooked mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the baked meatloaf.

1. Add Cheese and Bacon:

• Sprinkle the shredded Mexican blend cheese and bacon pieces over the mashed potatoes.

1. Broil to Melt Cheese:

• Set the oven to broil and place the casserole under the broiler for a few minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

1. Serve:

• Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
• Enjoy your Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole!

Description and Tips:

This Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is a delicious twist on traditional meatloaf, combining the savory flavors of seasoned ground beef with creamy mashed potatoes and the irresistible taste of melted cheese and crispy bacon. The BBQ sauce adds a tangy sweetness, while the chili powder gives it a subtle kick, making it a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Tips:

• Ground Beef: For a leaner option, use ground turkey or a mix of ground beef and ground pork.
• Onions: If you prefer a milder flavor, sauté the onions before adding them to the meat mixture.
• Mashed Potatoes: For a homemade touch, you can make your own mashed potatoes instead of using premade ones.
• Cheese: Feel free to use other types of cheese such as cheddar or Monterey Jack if you prefer.
• Bacon: Use freshly cooked and crumbled bacon for the best flavor, but store-bought bacon pieces work well too.
• Broiling: Keep a close eye on the casserole while it’s under the broiler to prevent the cheese from burning.

This dish is perfect for a comforting family dinner, offering a delicious combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Enjoy the hearty, cheesy goodness of Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole!