COWBOY MEATLOAF AND POTATO CASSEROLE

Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines classic meatloaf with a cheesy potato casserole. Here’s a recipe and some tips to help you make this delicious meal:

Ingredients:

For the meatloaf:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ½ cup onion, finely chopped
• ½ cup bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the potato casserole:

• 4 cups frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup onion, finely chopped
• ½ cup bell pepper, finely chopped
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients for the meatloaf: ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, bell pepper, garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3. Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared baking dish and shape it into a loaf shape, ensuring it fits snugly in the dish.
4. In another bowl, combine the thawed hash brown potatoes, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, onion, bell pepper, crumbled bacon, melted butter, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Spread the potato mixture evenly over the meatloaf in the baking dish.
6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
7. After 40 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the potato casserole is golden and bubbly.
8. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
9. Serve the Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole as a satisfying main dish, accompanied by a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Cook’s Tips:

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option. You can also use a combination of ground beef and ground pork or ground turkey for variation.
• Breadcrumbs: Feel free to use regular breadcrumbs or substitute with panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
• Vegetables: The finely chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic add flavor and texture to both the meatloaf and potato casserole. Make sure to chop them finely so that they blend well.
• Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for the potato casserole, but you can experiment with other types of cheese like Monterey Jack or a blend of different cheeses for added flavor.
• Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy before crumbling it into the potato mixture. This adds a smoky and savory element to the casserole.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the meatloaf and potato casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just adjust the baking time accordingly, as refrigerated ingredients may take slightly longer to cook through.

Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together the classic flavors of meatloaf and cheesy potatoes. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing meal. Enjoy!

Here are some additional tips to help you make the most out of your Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole:

1. Prepping the Ingredients: Ensure that all your ingredients are prepped and ready before you start assembling the dish. Finely chop the onion, bell pepper, and garlic, and cook and crumble the bacon in advance. Thaw the hash brown potatoes if using frozen ones.
2. Mixing the Meatloaf: When mixing the ingredients for the meatloaf, use your hands or a fork to combine them. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a denser texture. Mix until the ingredients are just evenly incorporated.
3. Shaping the Meatloaf: When shaping the meatloaf in the baking dish, make sure it is compact and evenly shaped. This helps it cook more evenly and prevents it from falling apart during slicing.
4. Even Potato Layer: Spread the potato mixture evenly over the meatloaf, ensuring all areas are covered. This ensures even cooking and prevents any exposed meatloaf from drying out.
5. Baking Time and Temperature: Baking times can vary depending on your oven, so it’s essential to monitor the dish as it cooks. Check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the center of the meatloaf, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). The potato casserole should be golden and bubbly.
6. Resting Time: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meatloaf and ensures easier slicing.
7. Serving Suggestions: Serve the Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole as a complete meal on its own, or pair it with additional sides like steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or crusty bread for a heartier meal.
8. Leftovers: This casserole reheats well, so you can enjoy leftovers the next day. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.
9. Variations: Feel free to customize the recipe to your liking. You can add extra spices or herbs to the meatloaf mixture, such as dried thyme or smoked paprika, for additional flavor. You can also incorporate other ingredients like diced tomatoes, corn, or jalapeños into the potato casserole for a twist.

Remember, cooking is a creative process, so feel free to make adjustments and experiment with flavors to suit your preferences. Enjoy the delicious combination of meatloaf and potato casserole in this comforting Cowboy-inspired dish!