A Culinary Stampede: Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole
This one-pan wonder is a symphony of deliciousness, combining the robust flavors of a juicy meatloaf nestled beneath a comforting blanket of creamy mashed potatoes.
A Fusion of Savory Delights:
This dish is more than just a collection of ingredients; it's a harmonious blend of:
- Savory Meatloaf: A classic comfort food made with ground beef, seasoned to perfection with a touch of smoky barbecue sauce and warm chili powder.
- Creamy Potato Topping: Instant mashed potatoes transformed with a touch of decadence - melty Monterey Jack cheese, crispy fried onions for textural contrast, and the smoky-salty goodness of crumbled bacon.
A Straightforward Journey from Ranch to Table:
This recipe offers convenience without compromising on flavor. Let's embark on this culinary journey and create a delicious masterpiece:
Ingredients:
For the Savory Meatloaf:
- ¾ cup Chopped Onion – Adds depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness to the meatloaf.
- ⅓ cup Dried Breadcrumbs – Binds the ingredients together and helps the meatloaf maintain its shape.
- 1 pound Lean Ground Beef – The foundation of this hearty dish. Opt for lean ground beef to manage the fat content.
- ¼ cup Barbecue Sauce (your choice) – Smokey or sweet, barbecue sauce adds a burst of tangy flavor and a touch of smokiness. Choose your favorite!
- 2 teaspoons Chili Powder – Infuses the meatloaf with a warm, earthy spice.
- ¾ teaspoon Salt – Enhances all the other flavors in the dish.
- 1 Egg, Beaten – Binds the ingredients together for a cohesive meatloaf.
For the Creamy Potato Topping:
- 1 package Instant Butter-Flavored Mashed Potato Mix – The quick and easy base for the mashed potatoes.
- ⅔ cup Evaporated Milk – Creates a smooth and creamy potato texture compared to using water.
- ⅔ cup Monterey Jack Shredded Cheese – Melts beautifully and adds a sharp, slightly sweet flavor.
- ¼ cup Crispy Fried Onions – Adds a delightful textural contrast with a burst of oniony flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Chopped Parsley – Freshens up the dish with a touch of herbal goodness.
- 1 tablespoon Butter – Enriches the mashed potatoes for a decadent taste.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder – Adds a subtle garlicky aroma and flavor.
- 1 cup Cooked and Crumbled Bacon – Salty and smoky, the bacon adds another layer of deliciousness.
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the meatloaf cooks through thoroughly.
- Lightly grease a 9x9 inch baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal later.
- Wrangling Up the Meatloaf Flavor:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, barbecue sauce, breadcrumbs, chili powder, salt, and beaten egg. Mix everything well using a spoon or your hands until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Shaping Your Cowboy Star:
- Press the seasoned meatloaf mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Imagine you're molding a delicious landscape for your upcoming flavor adventure.
- Bake the Base:
- Bake the uncovered meatloaf for 20 minutes. This allows it to cook through and develop a slightly browned crust – the first layer of deliciousness!
- Taming the Grease:
- Once the 20 minutes are up, carefully remove the pan from the oven and drain off any excess grease that may have accumulated. This helps to prevent a greasy casserole.
- Mashing Up the Spuds:
- While the meatloaf cools slightly, prepare your instant mashed potatoes according to the package instructions. However, instead of water, use evaporated milk for a richer and creamier texture.
- Once mashed, fold in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese, crispy fried onions, chopped parsley, and crumbled bacon. This creates a flavorful and textural contrast to the meatloaf.
- Creating the Perfect Topping:
- Spread the creamy mashed potato mixture evenly over the top of the cooked meatloaf. This layer will be like a fluffy cloud of comfort, blanketing the savory goodness below.
- The Grand Finale:
- To add another layer of flavor and texture, sprinkle the top of the casserole with additional shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and crispy fried onions. Visualize it as adding the finishing touches to your delicious landscape.
- Broiling to Perfection:
- Place the casserole under the broiler, about 6 inches from the heat source. Broil for 3 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Watch closely during this step to ensure your creation achieves a beautiful golden finish without burning.
- Chow Time!:
- Serve the Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole hot, with a side of additional barbecue sauce for those who like a little extra kick. Get ready for a round of compliments and happy faces around the dinner table! This dish is sure to become a regular on your family's menu.
Tips and Variations:
- For a cheesier experience: Increase the amount of shredded cheese in both the meatloaf and mashed potato mixtures.
- Don't have evaporated milk? You can substitute milk or low-fat milk, but the texture of the mashed potatoes may not be as creamy.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this casserole with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
- Leftovers are welcome! This casserole reheats beautifully. Simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
A Celebration of Flavor and Comfort:
The Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is a celebration of hearty flavors, creamy textures, and delightful contrasts. It's a dish that's easy to prepare, perfect for feeding a crowd, and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So, gather your ingredients, channel your inner cowboy spirit, and embark on this culinary adventure. You won't be disappointed!
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