Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole: A Hearty and Satisfying Recipe

Follow these steps to make your own Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, diced bell pepper, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, barbecue sauce, salt, and pepper. If you like a little extra heat, add the chopped jalapeño as well.
Mix the ingredients together with your hands until everything is well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
Spread the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, pressing it down to form an even layer.
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloaf is mostly cooked through. It will finish cooking when the casserole is baked with the potato layer.

While the meatloaf is baking, peel and chop the potatoes into chunks. Boil them in a large pot of salted water for about 15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, salt, and pepper, then mash until smooth and creamy. If you prefer smoother mashed potatoes, you can use a hand mixer to whip them. Adjust the amount of milk as needed to reach your desired consistency.
Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the mashed potatoes for an extra layer of creaminess and flavor.

Once the meatloaf layer is partially cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven.
Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meatloaf layer, creating a smooth surface.
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes for a cheesy finish.

Crumble the cooked bacon over the top of the cheese layer. The bacon adds a crispy, smoky element that perfectly complements the richness of the casserole.
If you like a little extra color and flavor, sprinkle some thinly sliced green onions on top of the bacon.

Return the assembled casserole to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the meatloaf is fully cooked (you can check with a meat thermometer to ensure the meat reaches an internal temperature of 160°F).
If you want a crispy, golden top, you can broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Be sure to watch it closely to avoid burning the cheese.

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice.
Serve the Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole with a side of green beans or a simple salad for a balanced meal.

Customize the Flavor: Feel free to play with the ingredients. You can add corn, diced tomatoes, or even jalapeño peppers to the meatloaf layer for extra flavor and texture. You can also switch up the cheese—try pepper jack for a little spice or gouda for a smoky twist.
Make Ahead: You can prepare this casserole in advance and store it in the fridge before the final bake. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven for an easy meal.
Leftovers: This casserole stores well and tastes just as good the next day. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick meal.

ENJOY IT AND HAPPY BAKING 💛