cowboy meatloaf and potato casserole

Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole: A Hearty Western Feast

 Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that pays homage to the rugged flavors of the Wild West. This one-pan wonder combines the savory goodness of classic meatloaf with layers of tender potatoes, smoky bacon, and gooey cheese. It’s a meal that embodies the spirit of frontier cooking, where bold flavors come together for a satisfying feast. Whether you’re rustling up dinner for a hungry family or simply craving some cowboy comfort, join us as we lasso this flavorful recipe and create a dish that’s as big and bold as the open range.

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup diced onion
• 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper
• 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Potato Casserole:

• 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 4-5 medium-sized potatoes)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Meatloaf:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, diced onion, diced green bell pepper, diced red bell pepper, ketchup, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the center of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Prepare the Potato Casserole: 3. Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes around the meatloaf in the baking dish, creating a potato layer.

4. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes.
5. Sprinkle half of the crumbled bacon over the potatoes and cheese.
6. Season the potatoes with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Create another layer of thinly sliced potatoes over the first layer.
8. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the second layer of potatoes.
9. Season again with salt and black pepper to taste.

Bake and Garnish: 10. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes.

11. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender, the meatloaf is cooked through, and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
12. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Serve and Enjoy: 13. Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is best enjoyed hot and hearty. Slice the meatloaf and serve alongside the cheesy potato casserole.

Cook’s Notes:

• You can customize the meatloaf by adding ingredients like diced jalapeños or shredded cheese for extra flavor.
• Make sure the potatoes are thinly sliced to ensure they cook evenly and become tender.
• For a smokier flavor, consider using smoked cheddar cheese or adding a dash of smoked paprika to the meatloaf mixture.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for a delicious meal the next day.

 Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is a Western-inspired feast that brings together the bold flavors of meatloaf and the comforting goodness of cheesy potatoes. With layers of savory meat, tender spuds, and smoky bacon, it’s a meal that satisfies both your appetite and your sense of adventure. So, saddle up and savor the hearty flavors of this classic recipe, and let it transport you to a time when cowboys and campfires reigned supreme in the culinary landscape of the Wild West.