Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole

Here’s a hearty, flavor-packed Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole — a comfort food mash-up that layers savory meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, topped with cheese and crispy bacon. It’s like a loaded baked potato meets a classic meatloaf, all baked in one dish.

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🤠 Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole

Ingredients (Serves 6–8):

For the meatloaf layer:

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80/20 works well)

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• 1 egg

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1/2 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt & pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for topping)

For the potato topping:

• 3–4 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)

• 1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese (optional, for creaminess)

• Salt & pepper to taste

For the topping:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 4–6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled

• Chopped green onions or chives (optional)

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🔪 Instructions:

1. Preheat oven:

   • Set to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Make meatloaf layer:

   • In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic powder, Worcestershire, paprika, salt, pepper, and BBQ sauce.

   • Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish.

3. Bake meatloaf base:

   • Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until mostly cooked through and juices run clear.

   • Drain any excess fat if needed.

4. Add mashed potato layer:

   • Mix mashed potatoes with sour cream or cream cheese (if using) and season to taste.

   • Spread evenly over the cooked meatloaf.

5. Top it off:

   • Sprinkle cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the mashed potatoes.

6. Final bake:

   • Return to oven and bake for 15–20 more minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

   • Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes to crisp the top.

7. Garnish and serve:

   • Top with chopped green onions or chives, and drizzle with extra BBQ sauce if desired.

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🔄 Make-Ahead Tips:

• Assemble fully and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

• Freezes well (unbaked or baked) — just thaw and reheat as needed.

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Want a spicy version with jalapeños or pepper jack cheese, or a low-carb version with cauliflower mash?