Cowboy Meatloaf And Potato Casserole

### For the Potato Topping:

* Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and boiled
* Butter
* Milk or cream
* Salt and pepper
* Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

### Toppings:

* More shredded cheese (sharp cheddar works great)
* Cooked, crumbled bacon
* Chopped green onions or chives (for garnish)

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## 👩‍🍳 How to Make Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole

### 1. **Preheat and Prepare**

Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

### 2. **Make the Meatloaf Layer**

In a large bowl, combine ground meat, chopped onions, garlic, eggs, breadcrumbs, seasonings, and BBQ sauce or ketchup. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish.

### 3. **Bake the Meatloaf Base**

Bake uncovered for about **25–30 minutes**, until the meat is mostly cooked through.

### 4. **Prepare the Mashed Potatoes**

While the meatloaf bakes, boil the potatoes until fork-tender. Drain, mash with butter, milk, and salt. Add a handful of shredded cheese if desired.

### 5. **Layer It Up**

Spread the mashed potatoes over the cooked meatloaf. Top with more cheese and cooked bacon.

### 6. **Bake Again**

Return the dish to the oven and bake for another **15–20 minutes**, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

### 7. **Garnish and Serve**

Sprinkle with chopped green onions or chives before serving.

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## 🔁 Variations to Try

* **Spicy Cowboy:** Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meatloaf mix.
* **Tex-Mex Twist:** Mix some taco seasoning into the meat and add a layer of corn and black beans between the meat and potato layers.
* **Low-Carb Version:** Swap mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower for a lighter take.

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## 🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

* **Refrigerator:** Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
* **Freezer:** Assemble ahead and freeze before the final bake. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.
* **Meal Prep Friendly:** Great for making in individual portions for grab-and-go lunches or dinners.

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## 🤠 Final Thoughts

Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is the kind of meal that brings warmth to the table and smiles to every face. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving serious comfort food, this dish delivers every time.

So grab your favorite casserole dish, preheat that oven, and get ready to serve up **a hearty slice of homestyle goodness** — cowboy-style!

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