Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that combines the heartiness of meatloaf with the comforting allure of potatoes in this Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole. This recipe brings together robust flavors and simple ingredients, crafting a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 pound ground lean meat (beef or turkey)
- 3/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/3 cup seasoned bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup Jack Daniel’s® Barbecue Sauce, Honey Smokehouse™
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
For the Potato Casserole:
- 1 package Ore-Ida® Steam n’ Mash® Cut Russet Potatoes
- 2/3 cup evaporated milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup crumbled real bacon
- 1/4 cup crispy fried onions (canned)
- 2/3 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
Directions:
- Preparation: Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F. Coat a 9×9 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prepare it for the casserole.
- Making the Meatloaf: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs, Jack Daniel’s Barbecue Sauce, lightly beaten egg, chili powder, and salt. Mix these ingredients until thoroughly combined. Gently press this meat mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Baking the Meatloaf: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 20 to 25 minutes or until the meatloaf is thoroughly cooked. If necessary, carefully pour off any excess fat. Adjust the oven to broil and position the oven rack 6 to 8 inches from the heat source for the next step.
- Preparing the Potato Casserole: While the meatloaf bakes, cook the Ore-Ida Steam n’ Mash Cut Russet Potatoes according to the package instructions. Once cooked, mash the potatoes with evaporated milk and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Finishing Touches: Once the meatloaf is cooked through, spread the mashed potato mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf in the baking dish. Sprinkle the crumbled real bacon, crispy fried onions, and shredded Mexican blend cheese on top of the mashed potatoes.
- Broiling: Place the casserole under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and starts to turn golden brown.
Conclusion:
This Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is a celebration of flavors, blending the savory goodness of meatloaf with creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes and crispy bacon. With each forkful, experience the warmth and satisfaction of a meal that’s both comforting and delicious, perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners.