Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a casserole dish to prevent sticking.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, diced onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, salt, pepper, and smoked
paprika. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix, which can make the meatloaf dense.
In a separate bowl, toss the sliced potatoes with a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread half of the potatoes evenly across
the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
Press the meatloaf mixture evenly over the potato layer, creating a solid middle layer. Arrange the remaining sliced
potatoes on top of the meatloaf.
Pour the beef broth evenly around the edges of the casserole to help the potatoes cook through. Spread ketchup or BBQ
sauce over the top layer of potatoes.
Cover the casserole tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese
over the top, and return the dish to the oven uncovered.
Bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden, and the potatoes are
fork-tender.
Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Serving and Storage:
Serve Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole warm, scooping through all layers for a complete bite. It pairs well with
simple sides such as green beans, corn, or a crisp side salad.
This casserole is ideal for family-style meals and holds together well for leftovers. Its layered structure makes it
easy to portion and serve.
For storage, allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to
4 days.
To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil, or microwave individual portions until heated through.
Tips:
Slice the potatoes thinly to ensure they cook evenly and become tender within the baking time.
For extra flavor, brush a little additional BBQ sauce over the cheese during the final minutes of baking.
Avoid overmixing the meatloaf ingredients to keep the texture tender.
Letting the casserole rest before serving helps it set and makes slicing easier.
Conclusion:
Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort meal—hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. By combining two
beloved classics into one dish, it delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.
Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners, this casserole offers warmth and familiarity in every bite.
It’s a dependable recipe that feels both nostalgic and filling.
Once you try it, this dish is sure to become a regular in your comfort food lineup.
FAQ:
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used, but you may want to add a little extra seasoning for flavor.
Do the potatoes need to be pre-cooked?
No, thinly slicing them and baking with broth allows them to cook fully in the casserole.
Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
What sauce works best on top?
Both ketchup and BBQ sauce work well—choose based on whether you prefer classic or smoky flavor.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze baked portions for up to 2 months and reheat in the oven for best texture.