Cowboy Meatloaf Potato Casserole (Print Version)

Layers of seasoned beef and cheesy potatoes baked together for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal.

# Ingredients:

→ Meatloaf Layer

01 - 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (85% lean)
02 - 1 cup dry breadcrumbs
03 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1/2 cup whole milk
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 1/2 cup ketchup
08 - 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
09 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
10 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
11 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Potato Layer

12 - 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
13 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
14 - 1/2 cup sour cream
15 - 1/4 cup whole milk
16 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
17 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
18 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
19 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

→ Sauce Topping (Optional)

20 - 1/2 cup ketchup
21 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar
22 - 1 teaspoon yellow mustard

→ Optional Garnish

23 - Chopped fresh parsley
24 - Extra shredded cheddar cheese

# Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently by hand or with a spoon until just combined.
02 - Peel and thinly slice russet potatoes. Place slices in a bowl and toss with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, milk, and sour cream until the potatoes are evenly coated. Mix in 1/2 cup cheddar cheese for extra creaminess if desired.
03 - Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Arrange half the potato mixture evenly on the bottom. Shape meat mixture into a loaf and place atop the first potato layer. Cover the meatloaf with remaining potatoes. Dot the top with pieces of butter.
04 - In a small bowl, stir together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Evenly spread over the top layer of potatoes for a flavorful glaze.
05 - Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 to 25 minutes, until potatoes are tender, meatloaf is cooked through to 160°F internal temperature, and the top is golden brown. Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar on top for the last 5 minutes if desired.
06 - Remove casserole from oven and allow to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley or additional cheese if desired. Serve hot alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.

# Notes:

01 - For fluffier potatoes, soak sliced potatoes in cold water for 10 minutes before assembling to remove excess starch.
02 - Add grated Parmesan or dried herbs to the meatloaf mixture for enhanced flavor.