If there ever was a dish designed to satisfy the heartiest of appetites, it would undoubtedly be the Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole. This is not just a meal; it’s an experience—a robust and fulfilling one at that. One chilly evening, I decided to whip up this recipe for a group of friends who were coming over for a casual game night. Knowing their appetites and not wanting to fall short, I doubled the recipe. It turned out to be a sage decision, as the casserole was devoured faster than we could deal the cards!

This culinary delight is essentially a glorious fusion of American and English comfort foods—meatloaf and shepherd’s pie, respectively. The base features a succulent meatloaf, seasoned generously with sweet honey barbecue sauce and a hint of chili powder, offering a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and a slight kick. Crowning this are creamy mashed potatoes that aren’t just any mashed potatoes; they’re enhanced with crispy bacon bits and French-fried onions, introducing a delightful contrast of textures that make every bite interesting.

Ingredients

• Meatloaf:
  • 1 pound ground lean meat (beef or turkey)
  • 3/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/3 cup seasoned bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup Jack Daniel’s® Barbecue Sauce, Honey Smokehouse™
  • 1 lightly beaten egg
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
• Topping:
  • 1 package Ore-Ida® Steam n’ Mash® Cut Russet Potatoes
  • 2/3 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 cup crumbled real bacon
  • 1/4 cup canned crispy fried onions
  • 2/3 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese

Equipment

• 9×9 inch baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Nonstick cooking spray
• Oven

Directions

1. Prepare the Oven and Dish:
   • Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Spray a 9×9 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Mix the Meatloaf:
   • In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, onion, breadcrumbs, barbecue sauce, egg, chili powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly until well combined but still tender.
3. Form the Meatloaf Base:
   • Gently press the meat mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Ensure it’s evenly spread.
4. Bake the Meatloaf:
   • Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through. Be sure to carefully drain any excess fat that surfaces.
5. Prepare the Potato Topping:
   • While the meatloaf bakes, prepare the mashed potatoes according to the package directions, using the evaporated milk and butter for a creamy texture.
6. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf. Sprinkle with bacon bits, crispy onions, and shredded cheese.
7. Broil to Finish:
   • Adjust your oven to the broil setting and place the rack about 6 to 8 inches from the heat source. Broil the casserole for a few minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish: Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
• Sides: Although this casserole stands proudly on its own, a side of steamed green beans or a crisp salad could balance out the richness.

FAQ

• Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the casserole up to the point of baking and refrigerate. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
• Is there a substitute for the barbecue sauce? You can use any sweet and smoky barbecue sauce or even a ketchup blend with a touch of honey and Worcestershire sauce as a quick DIY alternative.
• How do I store leftovers? Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Can I make this gluten-free? Yes, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that all other packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free.

This Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is more than just a dish—it’s a comforting hug in casserole form, guaranteed to satisfy the hungriest of cowboys and cowgirls at your table.