Ingredients
– 500 grams lean ground beef This forms the hearty base, providing protein and rich flavor while keeping the dish lighter.
– 2 medium finely chopped onions They add sweetness and depth, helping to bind the mixture and enhance the overall taste.
– 1/3 cup breadcrumbs Used as a binder to hold the meatloaf together, ensuring it doesn’t fall apart during baking.
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce Brings a tangy, smoky sweetness that makes this cowboy meatloaf recipe stand out with its unique zest.
– 1 large egg Acts as a natural binder to keep the ground beef mixture moist and cohesive.
– 1/4 cup crispy fried onions Adds a delightful crunch on top, contrasting the soft textures for a more interesting bite.
– 1 cup bacon crumbles or bits Infuses salty, smoky notes that elevate the casserole’s comforting appeal.
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder Provides a subtle garlic flavor without overpowering, blending well with other seasonings.
– 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley Offers a fresh, herbal touch and brightens the dish with a hint of greenery.
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter Melts into the mashed potatoes for creaminess and richness.
– 2/3 cup evaporated milk Creates silky mashed potatoes by adding moisture and a creamy texture.
– Salt and black pepper to taste Seasons the meatloaf and potatoes, balancing flavors to suit your preference.
– 2 teaspoons chili powder Adds a mild kick and warmth, giving the dish its cowboy-inspired spice.
– One package of frozen mashed russet potatoes (Steam n’ Mash cut or similar) Serves as the easy, comforting layer that soaks up the flavors.
– 2 1/2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (such as cheddar and Monterey Jack) Melts beautifully on top for a gooey, cheesy finish.
Instructions
1-First Step: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, combine 500 grams of lean ground beef, 2 medium finely chopped onions, 1/3 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of barbecue sauce, 1 large egg, 2 teaspoons of chili powder, and salt and black pepper to taste. Mix everything well until it’s evenly blended, then press the mixture into the prepared dish for an even layer. This step takes about 10 minutes and sets the base for your casserole.
2-Second Step: Bake the meatloaf base in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Once done, carefully drain any excess fat from the dish to keep things lighter and healthier, especially if you’re adapting for diet-conscious individuals. For gluten-free versions, ensure your breadcrumbs are certified gluten-free at this stage. Let it rest for a couple of minutes while you prepare theが見 potatoes.
3-Third Step: While the meatloaf bakes, prepare the mashed potatoes according to the package instructions, using one package of frozen mashed russet potatoes. Once ready, stir in 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, 2/3 cup of evaporated milk, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley. For low-calorie swaps, use a lighter milk alternative here to reduce calories without losing creaminess. Spread this mixture evenly over the baked meatloaf base.
4-Fourth Step: Top the casserole with 1/4 cup of crispy fried onions, 1 cup of bacon crumbles, and 2 1/2 cups of shredded Mexican cheese blend. Return the dish to the oven and broil on high for 4 to 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning, and if you’re making a vegan version, use plant-based cheese for that melty effect.
5-Fifth Step: Remove the cowboy meatloaf potato casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to set. This helps the flavors meld and makes serving easier. Garnish with extra parsley if you like, and portion it out for your meal. For variations, consider adding bell peppers in this step for added nutrition, especially for families with kids or busy parents.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🥓 Use lean ground beef to reduce grease but maintain flavor.
🧅 Avoid overmixing the meatloaf mixture to keep it tender.
🔥 Broil cheese topping carefully to avoid burning; watch closely during last minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking and Broiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Contains Dairy and Gluten
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg