Saddle up, pardner, because we’re about to embark on a culinary adventure that’s as hearty and satisfying as a cowboy’s campfire meal. The Ultimate Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole combines two beloved comfort food classics into one mouthwatering dish that’s sure to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. With tender meatloaf nestled atop a bed of creamy mashed potatoes and smothered in a savory sauce, this recipe is a true taste of the Old West.
INGREDIENTS:
FOR THE MEATLOAF:
-
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
FOR THE POTATO CASSEROLE:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
FOR THE SAUCE:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
INSTRUCTIONS:
- 1st Step – Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- 2nd Step – Mix the ingredients together until well combined, but avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish.
- 3rd Step – Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water.
- 4th Step – Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the potatoes until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot.
- 5th Step – Add the milk and butter to the pot with the potatoes, then mash them until smooth and creamy. Season the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste.
- 6th Step – Spread the mashed potatoes evenly in the baking dish around the meatloaf. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.
- 7th Step – In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce to make the sauce. Spread the sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
- 8th Step – Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly and caramelized.
- 9th Step – Once cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.