Cowboy Meatloaf With Potato Casserole Crust

Hearty Ranch-Style Comfort Food

Cowboy meatloaf is a hearty, ranch-style comfort food that combines ground beef with bold flavors like barbecue sauce, smoky bacon, and mixed vegetables.

Its unique blend of spices and ingredients creates a satisfying meal perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

Ideal for those who appreciate rustic, home-cooked dishes, this meatloaf promises to warm hearts and fill bellies.

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Ingredients

1 ½ pounds ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper
1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for topping)
1/4 cup milk
2 large eggs
4 slices of smoky bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: 1 cup mixed vegetables (like corn or diced carrots)

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Cooking Steps

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will guarantee that your meatloaf cooks evenly and thoroughly.

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Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ pounds of ground beef, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, and 1/2 cup of finely chopped onion.

Add in 1/2 cup of finely chopped bell pepper for flavor, along with 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce, 1/4 cup of milk, and 2 large eggs.

Mix these ingredients together until they’re well combined.

You can use your hands or a spoon, but be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.

Next, add in 4 slices of cooked and crumbled smoky bacon, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.

If you’re using any optional ingredients like 1 cup of mixed vegetables, now is the time to fold those in as well.

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Shape the Meatloaf

Once all the ingredients are mixed well, transfer the meat mixture into a greased loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet.

Make sure to press down evenly so it holds its shape during cooking.

To add an extra layer of flavor, spread some additional barbecue sauce over the top of the meatloaf.

This will caramelize beautifully during baking, creating a tasty crust.

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Bake the Meatloaf

Place the prepared meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour or until cooked through.

The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.

Once it’s done baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.

This will help the juices redistribute, making for a moist and flavorful dish.

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Serve and Enjoy

Finally, slice the meatloaf and serve it warm.

It goes great with sides like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Cowboy Meatloaf!

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Ingredient Suggestions

When crafting your Cowboy Meatloaf, think about the delicious ingredients that can elevate its flavor and texture.

I recommend using fresh ground beef, savory onions, and a blend of spices.

For ingredient sourcing, consider exploring local markets for freshness or experimenting with global alternatives like lamb or turkey to give it a unique twist.

These choices can truly transform your dish into something special!

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Tips and Variations

customize with additions and substitutes

To elevate your Cowboy Meatloaf, consider adding chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for a kick of flavor and texture.

Experiment with different meats like ground turkey or a mix of beef and pork for varied richness.

You can also incorporate barbecue sauce into the mixture for that signature smoky taste.

For a healthier twist, substitute breadcrumbs with oats or quinoa.

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Garnish With Fresh Herbs

Garnishing your Cowboy Meatloaf with fresh herbs not only adds a burst of color but also enhances the dish’s flavor profile.

I love incorporating vibrant parsley or fragrant rosemary, both showcasing current garnish trends while delivering impressive herbal benefits.

Not only do these herbs elevate the visual appeal, but they also create a mouthwatering aroma that draws you in, making each bite even more delightful.

What other dishes can I pair it with?

Pairing your Cowboy Meatloaf with the right side dishes can elevate the meal to a whole new level.

I love serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a zesty corn salad for that perfect balance.

Don’t forget some fresh vegetable pairings, like roasted Brussels sprouts or sautéed green beans, to add a colorful touch and boost the flavors of your hearty dish!