Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole

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Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food fusion. It takes the hearty, homestyle taste of a classic meatloaf and tops it with a creamy, cheesy mashed potato layer that melts in your mouth. The savory meat is flavored with smoky barbecue sauce and seasonings, then baked until juicy and golden, making every bite rich and satisfying. The potato topping is smooth, buttery, and laced with cheese, making it a warm, cozy blanket over the bold cowboy-style meatloaf beneath.

This casserole is the perfect answer for anyone craving a hearty, one-pan dinner that delivers big flavors and down-home comfort. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping a meal for guests, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. It’s a crowd-pleasing favorite ideal for busy weeknights, Sunday dinners, or potlucks where you want something truly memorable and filling. A drizzle of BBQ sauce and a sprinkle of fresh parsley give the dish a final touch of cowboy flair.

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Ingredients for Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 egg
• ¾ cup breadcrumbs
• ½ cup barbecue sauce, divided
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Potato Layer

• 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared ahead or instant)
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Topping

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Additional barbecue sauce for drizzle
• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Base

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and ¼ cup of the barbecue sauce. Mix well using your hands or a spoon until fully blended. Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, forming a flat loaf shape.

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Step 2: Bake the Meatloaf

Place the dish into the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the meat is mostly cooked through and starting to brown on the edges. This partial bake allows the meat to firm up before the mashed potato layer is added.

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Step 3: Make the Mashed Potato Topping

While the meatloaf bakes, prepare your mashed potatoes. In a medium bowl, combine mashed potatoes with sour cream, milk, butter, and cheddar cheese. Stir until creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

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Step 4: Layer the Mashed Potatoes

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and carefully spread the mashed potato mixture evenly over the top of the meat layer. Use a spatula to smooth it out, covering it edge to edge.

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Step 5: Add Cheese and Sauce

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the potato layer. Drizzle the remaining ¼ cup of barbecue sauce across the top in a zigzag pattern. This adds a sweet, smoky flavor and beautiful presentation.

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Step 6: Final Bake

Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. The internal temperature of the meat should reach 160°F (71°C).

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Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Slice into squares and serve warm for a satisfying, family-style meal.

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Storage Instructions

To store leftovers of Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole, allow the dish to cool completely to room temperature. Transfer portions into airtight containers or cover the original baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap.

• Refrigerator: Store for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes until heated through.
• Freezer: This casserole freezes well. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place in a freezer-safe container. Store for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 8 servings total)

• Calories: ~420 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 610mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes! Instant mashed potatoes work great and save time. Just make sure they’re creamy and thick enough to spread.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the full casserole, cover it, and refrigerate up to a day in advance. Bake when ready.

3. What other meats can I use?

Ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of beef and pork all work well as meatloaf bases.

4. Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, substitute dairy-free butter, sour cream, and cheese alternatives. It will still be creamy and delicious.

5. How do I know the meat is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer. The center of the meatloaf should reach 160°F (71°C).

6. Is this gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and double-check all sauces and ingredients to make it gluten-free.

7. Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?

Yes! Finely chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or grated carrots can be added to the meat mixture.

8. What side dishes go well with this?

It pairs beautifully with green beans, a crisp garden salad, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.

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