Few dishes scream comfort food like Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole.
This hearty recipe combines juicy, flavor-packed meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and a gooey layer of melted cheese.
It’s the perfect dish for feeding a hungry family, warming up a chilly evening, or simply indulging in a satisfying home-cooked meal.
The layers of meat and potatoes bring a rustic charm, while the cheese topping makes it irresistible.
This casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience—one that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Let’s dive into how to create this ultimate comfort food!
Why We Love This Recipe
There’s a lot to love about this Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole.
First, it’s a one-dish wonder.
The meatloaf base, creamy potato layer, and cheesy topping mean you don’t need to worry about side dishes—everything you need is in one pan.
This recipe is also easy to make.
With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dish that feels like it took hours of effort.
It’s family-approved too.
From picky eaters to ravenous teenagers, everyone loves the combination of meat, potatoes, and cheese.
Plus, it’s a great make-ahead meal.
Prepare it in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Finally, it’s customizable.
You can tweak the seasonings, add veggies, or switch up the cheese to suit your taste buds.
Ingredients
Preparation Details
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50 minutes
- Serves: 6-8
For the Meatloaf Layer
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Potato Layer
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Topping
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish, creating a solid base layer.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
Place the diced potatoes in a large pot of salted water.
Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
Add the milk, butter, salt, and pepper.
Mash until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf layer in the casserole dish.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on top, covering the entire surface.
Step 5: Bake
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
For an extra golden crust, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Slice into portions and serve warm.
Tips for the Perfect Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole
Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh potatoes, onions, and garlic elevate the flavors of this dish.
Balance the Seasoning
Taste the mashed potatoes as you go to ensure the right level of salt and butter.
Don’t Overcook the Potatoes
Overcooked potatoes can become waterlogged, resulting in less creamy mashed potatoes.
Layer Evenly
Make sure each layer—meatloaf, potatoes, and cheese—is evenly distributed for the best bite in every serving.
Let it Rest
Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to help the layers set and make serving easier.
Variations to Try
Loaded Cowboy Casserole: Add crispy bacon bits and green onions to the mashed potato layer for extra flavor.
Vegetable Twist: Mix in finely chopped carrots, bell peppers, or spinach to the meatloaf layer for added nutrients.
Cheese Explosion: Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, Parmesan, and pepper jack for a more complex cheesy topping.
Gluten-Free Option: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs in the meatloaf.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to the meat mixture for some heat.
Southwestern Style: Include a layer of salsa or diced tomatoes and green chilies between the meat and potatoes.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage
Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated casserole portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
For frozen casserole, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as directed.
Microwaving is also an option for smaller portions but may soften the texture.
Final Thoughts
Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is the definition of hearty comfort food.
It’s a family favorite for a reason—simple ingredients, easy preparation, and a flavor-packed result.
Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving it at a potluck, this casserole is sure to impress.
Its layers of seasoned meat, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese are as satisfying as it gets.
Gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and get ready to create this crowd-pleasing dish.
Happy cooking!