COWBOY MEATLOAF AND POTATO CASSEROLE

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Looking for a delicious, comforting meal that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family? Look no further than this Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole recipe. Combining the savory flavors of meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

  • ¾ cup of chopped onion
  • ⅓ cup dried bread crumbs
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • ¼ cup your choice Barbecue sauce
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • 1 egg, beaten

For the Potatoes:

  • 1 package instant butter flavored mashed potato mix
  • ⅔ cup evaporated milk
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
  • ¼ cup crispy fried onions
  • ⅔ cup Monterey Jack shredded cheese

Instructions:

FIRST STEP: Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly spray a 9×9 baking pan. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, barbecue sauce, bread crumbs, beaten egg, chili powder, and salt.

SECOND STEP: Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes.

THIRD STEP: Carefully remove the pan from the oven and drain off any excess grease. In a separate bowl, prepare the instant mashed potatoes according to the package instructions. Mix in the evaporated milk, Monterey Jack cheese, dried onions, butter, and cooked bacon.

FOURTH STEP: Spread the potato mixture evenly over the baked meatloaf. Sprinkle additional shredded cheese, bacon, and dried onions on top. Place the casserole under the broiler, approximately 6 inches from the heat source, and broil for about 3 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

FIFTH STEP: Serve your Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole with an extra serving of barbecue sauce if desired.

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

  1. Pair with Vegetables: Serve the casserole with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables, such as green beans, carrots, or broccoli, to add a fresh and healthy component to your meal.
  2. Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions on top for a pop of color and extra flavor.
  3. Additional Sauces: Offer extra barbecue sauce on the side for those who love a bit more tangy sweetness with their meal.
  4. Balanced Meal: Pair the casserole with a fresh garden salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
  2. Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap individual portions or the whole casserole tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Label with the date, and it can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
  3. Reheating: To reheat, thaw the frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, approximately 20-30 minutes. If reheating from the refrigerator, heat in the oven for about 15-20 minutes or until hot. For quick reheating, individual portions can be microwaved on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Maintain Moisture: When reheating, cover the casserole with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. If reheating in the microwave, cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap to retain moisture.

Variations:

1. Cheesy Bacon Ranch Variation:

  • Ranch Seasoning: Mix 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning into the meatloaf mixture for a tangy twist.
  • Cheese Options: Use a combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheese for extra creaminess.
  • Toppings: Top the casserole with additional crumbled bacon and a drizzle of ranch dressing before broiling.

2. Southwestern Twist:

  • Spices: Add 1 teaspoon of cumin and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika to the meatloaf mixture for a southwestern flavor.
  • Corn and Beans: Mix in 1 cup of corn kernels and 1 cup of black beans into the meatloaf mixture for added texture and taste.
  • Toppings: Sprinkle with diced jalapeños and a handful of chopped cilantro before serving.

3. Italian Style:

  • Herbs: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder into the meatloaf mixture.
  • Tomato Sauce: Replace the barbecue sauce with marinara sauce.
  • Cheese: Use a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for the potato topping.
  • Toppings: Add a layer of sliced pepperoni on top before broiling for a pizza-like finish.

4. Loaded Baked Potato:

  • Potato Mix-ins: Stir in 1 cup of sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and 1 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon into the mashed potatoes.
  • Green Onions: Add ½ cup of chopped green onions into the potato mixture.
  • Toppings: Top with extra shredded cheese, bacon bits, and a dollop of sour cream before serving.

5. Veggie Lover’s Delight:

  • Vegetables: Add 1 cup of finely chopped bell peppers, 1 cup of grated carrots, and 1 cup of spinach into the meatloaf mixture.
  • Cheese: Use a mix of Monterey Jack and Swiss cheese.
  • Toppings: Garnish with fresh, chopped tomatoes and a sprinkle of fresh basil.

6. BBQ Pulled Pork Casserole:

  • Meat Substitute: Replace the ground beef with 1 pound of shredded, cooked pulled pork.
  • BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite barbecue sauce to mix with the pulled pork.
  • Toppings: Add a layer of coleslaw on top of the potato layer before broiling for a tangy crunch.

7. Shepherd’s Pie Style:

  • Vegetables: Add 1 cup of peas, 1 cup of diced carrots, and 1 cup of corn to the meat mixture.
  • Gravy: Mix in 1 cup of beef gravy with the meatloaf mixture.
  • Potatoes: Use traditional mashed potatoes instead of instant for a classic shepherd’s pie feel.
  • Toppings: Top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

These variations allow you to customize the Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole to your family’s tastes and preferences, making it a versatile and repeatable dish for any occasion.

FAQs:

1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Simply peel, boil, and mash them as you normally would. Mix in the evaporated milk, butter, garlic powder, cheese, bacon, and onions as directed.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.

3. What type of barbecue sauce works best for this recipe?

Any barbecue sauce you enjoy will work well. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, go for a honey or brown sugar-based sauce. For a tangier taste, try a vinegar-based sauce.

4. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground beef. It will slightly change the flavor and texture, but it will still be delicious.

5. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free bread crumbs and ensure your barbecue sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free.

6. What can I use instead of evaporated milk in the potato mixture?

You can use regular milk, half-and-half, or heavy cream as a substitute for evaporated milk. Just be aware that the consistency may vary slightly.

7. Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf mixture?

Yes, finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, spinach, or zucchini can be added to the meatloaf mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.

8. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2-3 months.

9. How do I reheat leftovers?

To reheat, place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes.

10. Can I add more cheese to the recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add more cheese to both the meatloaf mixture and the potato topping. You can also try different types of cheese for varied flavors.

This Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it an ideal choice for a family dinner or a potluck gathering. The combination of savory meatloaf and creamy, cheesy potatoes is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a hearty, comforting meal that will become a household favorite!