Name: Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground Beef; 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs; 1 large Egg; 1/2 cup Chopped Onion; 1/4 cup Ketchup; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce; to taste Salt and Pepper; 2 cups Mashed Potatoes (Fresh or leftover); 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese; 1/4 cup Chopped Bacon (Optional but recommended)

Jump to Recipe

If you love hearty, comforting meals that feel like a warm hug at the end of the day, Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is about to be your new weeknight favorite. Imagine juicy, flavorful meatloaf layered with creamy mashed potatoes, melty cheddar cheese, and a scatter of crisp bacon—sounds irresistible, right? This dish is packed with down-home flavor and comes together with minimal fuss, making it a hero for busy families and beginner cooks alike. Fun fact: this recipe is popular at family reunions and potlucks across the Midwest because it’s so crowd-pleasing. If you’ve enjoyed the homestyle goodness of our Classic Shepherd’s Pie, you’ll find this casserole brings the same old-fashioned comfort with a bit of cowboy flair. Ready to gather everyone around the table? Let’s dig in and create a meal that’s sure to disappear fast!

What is Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole?

With a name like Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole, you might wonder, did John Wayne invent this dish while riding the plains? Well, not quite, but the hearty combination of beef, potatoes, and cheese surely would’ve kept any cowboy fueled for a long day on the ranch. This recipe gets its playful moniker thanks to its rustic, stick-to-your-ribs satisfaction—it’s big, bold, and built for hungry folks. After all, they say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and I’d wager this dish has a direct route. So, why not grab your boots (and your fork) and give this crowd-pleaser a try tonight?

Why You’ll Love This

Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole isn’t just another dinner—it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the kitchen by the irresistible smell alone. The biggest highlight? You get two comfort classics—meatloaf and mashed potatoes—in one easy-to-serve casserole. By making it at home, you’ll save money compared to takeout and skip the mystery ingredients found in store-bought versions. Plus, the toppings—rich cheddar cheese and smoky bacon—turn each bite into a flavor explosion that sets this dish apart. If you loved our Cheesy Tater Tot Hotdish or crave the satisfying bite of loaded baked potatoes, this recipe will quickly earn a spot in your rotation. Ready to fall in love with a new family favorite? Give Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole a try this week!

How to Make

Quick Overview

This Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is as simple as it is delicious. In just about 45 minutes, you’ll have a bubbling, golden-topped dish that tastes like a hug in a pan. Its key features—tender meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes, and gooey cheddar cheese—make each forkful extra satisfying. Even with a full schedule, this recipe won’t keep you in the kitchen all night. Just assemble, bake, and enjoy!

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1 egg

1/2 cup chopped onion

1/4 cup ketchup

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 cups mashed potatoes (fresh or leftover)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup chopped bacon (optional, but highly recommended)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—try not to overwork the mixture for the juiciest result.
Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and set.
Carefully remove the dish from the oven. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the cooked meatloaf layer.
Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes and top with chopped bacon, if using.
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and everything is heated through.
Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

What to Serve With

Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole shines as a star entrée, but a few sides can round out your meal perfectly. Try pairing it with steamed green beans, crisp roasted corn, or a simple garden salad for freshness. Garlic bread or homemade dinner rolls soak up any extra cheesy goodness. For drinks, a glass of iced tea or a zesty lemonade keeps things light and refreshing. Finish with a classic dessert like peach cobbler or apple crisp for the ultimate comfort meal.

Top Tips for Perfecting

To make your casserole the best it can be, here are a few pro tips. If you’re out of breadcrumbs, swap in crushed crackers or oats as an easy substitute. Don’t overmix your meatloaf base—gentle mixing keeps it tender. For extra creamy potatoes, mash them with a splash of warm milk and butter before spreading over the meatloaf. If you like a bit of heat, try stirring some diced jalapeños into your mashed potatoes for a Tex-Mex twist. Avoid overbaking; keep an eye on baking times so the meat stays moist. Lastly, cook and crumble your bacon fresh for maximum crunch and flavor.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftover Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is just as tasty the next day. Store any extras tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until hot. If you want to freeze, let the casserole cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Always make sure everything is heated through before serving.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a leaner option and still delivers great flavor.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole up to the cheese and bacon topping step, cover, and refrigerate for up to a day. Add the cheese and bacon just before baking the second time.

What type of mashed potatoes works best?

Both homemade or store-bought work. If using leftovers, just ensure they’re smooth and creamy for easy spreading.

Can I add vegetables inside the meatloaf layer?

Yes! Finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms add nutrition and flavor.

Is the bacon necessary?

It’s optional, but it adds a smoky crunch that many people love. For a vegetarian version, simply skip it.

Conclusion

Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is a true comfort food classic—easy to make, wallet-friendly, and guaranteed to satisfy even the hungriest crowd. Its layers of seasoned meatloaf, fluffy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and crisp bacon offer all the cozy flavors you crave from a home-cooked meal. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Try it tonight and discover why this heartwarming dish deserves a spot at your dinner table!