Recipe
COWBOY MEATLOAF AND POTATO CASSEROLE
Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole: A Hearty One-Pan Wonder
Saddle Up for a Flavorful Western Feast
When you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal with a cowboy twist, Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is the answer. This one-pan wonder combines the rich flavors of classic meatloaf with the heartiness of potatoes and a Tex-Mex-inspired sauce. It’s a complete meal that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. So, grab your apron and your appetite, and let’s rustle up some Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole!
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1/4 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Potato Casserole:
- 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
For the Tex-Mex Sauce:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatloaf:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, diced onion, diced bell pepper, diced tomatoes, egg, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the center of a large, greased baking dish. This will be the meatloaf base for your casserole.
2. Layer the Potato Casserole:
- In the same baking dish, arrange the thinly sliced peeled potatoes around the meatloaf, creating an even layer of potatoes.
- Sprinkle the diced onion, diced bell pepper, diced tomatoes, and minced garlic over the potatoes.
- Top the potatoes with the shredded cheddar cheese, creating a flavorful and gooey layer.
3. Make the Tex-Mex Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spiciness.
4. Pour the Sauce:
- Pour the Tex-Mex sauce evenly over the meatloaf and potato casserole, ensuring that both the meatloaf and potatoes are generously coated.
5. Bake to Perfection:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45-55 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
- During the last 10 minutes of baking, remove the foil to allow the cheese to become golden and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Once out of the oven, garnish your Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole with chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
7. Slice and Enjoy:
- Slice the meatloaf and serve it alongside a generous helping of the Tex-Mex potato casserole.
Tips and Variations:
Customizing Your Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole
Tips:
- For even cooking, make sure to slice the potatoes thinly and uniformly. You can use a mandoline slicer for precision.
- To speed up the potato cooking process, you can parboil the potato slices for a few minutes before assembling the casserole.
Variations:
- Add a can of drained black beans or corn kernels to the potato casserole for extra Tex-Mex flair.
- Experiment with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a unique flavor twist.
Customization:
- This Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is versatile. Feel free to adjust the Tex-Mex sauce’s spiciness by increasing or decreasing the cayenne pepper.
Storage:
- Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.
Cook’s Note:
- This Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is the perfect fusion of comfort food and Tex-Mex flavors. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual dinner, it’s a wholesome and delicious dish that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Enjoy the hearty goodness of tender meatloaf and cheesy potatoes with a zesty Tex-Mex twist!
Credit: 1krecipes
