Embrace the heartiness of the Wild West with a dish that combines classic meatloaf flavors with the rustic charm of potatoes. Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole combines savory ground meat, aromatic seasonings, and tender potatoes in a single dish and bakes to perfection. This casserole honors the flavors of the open range as well as the comfort of a well-prepared meal. Prepare to taste the frontier with every satisfying bite.
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef or a beef-pork blend
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 egg
For the Potato Layer:
- 4 cups peeled and thinly sliced potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preparing for the Culinary Journey: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or casserole dish.
2. Crafting the Meatloaf: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or beef-pork blend), breadcrumbs, milk, diced onion, diced green bell pepper, diced tomatoes, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix these ingredients together until well combined.
3. Binding Agent: Add the egg to the meatloaf mixture and mix it in thoroughly. The egg helps bind the ingredients together and adds moisture.
4. Shaping the Loaf: Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the greased baking dish and shape it into a loaf in the center of the dish.
5. Creating the Potato Layer: Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes over and around the meatloaf, creating a layer that covers the entire dish.
6. Cheesy Embrace: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the potato layer, adding a luscious layer of cheesy goodness.
7. Seasonal Harmony: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the cheese, adding color and a touch of freshness. Season the entire casserole with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Baking Brilliance: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes.
9. Unveiling the Delight: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through, the potatoes are tender, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Cowboy’s Feast: Once out of the oven, let the Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Slice the meatloaf and portion out the potato casserole onto plates.
Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole is a journey back in time to the rustic flavors of the Old West. With its hearty meatloaf base, tender potato layer, and the indulgent touch of melted cheddar cheese, this casserole captures the essence of frontier comfort. Whether shared around the dinner table or enjoyed as a solo indulgence, this dish offers a taste of nostalgia and the satisfaction of a well-prepared meal. So saddle up and savor the flavors that evoke the spirit of the open range and the warmth of home-cooked goodness.