My son hosted a small gathering with his friends, and when I served this dish, they couldn’t get enough of it
Cowboy Stew with Potatoes and Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that brings together the rich flavors of ground beef, the tang of Worcestershire sauce, and the earthy goodness of potatoes. This dish, steeped in culinary tradition, is perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. Its layered structure not only looks impressive but ensures every bite is a burst of flavor.
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Ingredients: Quality and Freshness
Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is key to making this dish truly shine. Here is a detailed list of what you’ll need:
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| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Chopped onion | 1 medium |
| Chopped garlic cloves | 2 cloves |
| Breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| Ketchup | 2/3 cup |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1/4 cup |
| Dried thyme | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Potatoes (thinly sliced) | 4 large |
| Grated cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
| Fresh parsley (optional) | Chopped, for garnish |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation: Setting the Stage
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
- Grease the Baking Dish: Use butter or non-stick spray to grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Creating the Meatloaf Mixture
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, chopped onion, chopped garlic, breadcrumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Mix Well: Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the meat mixture.
Assembling the Casserole
- Layer Potatoes: Butter the bottom of the baking dish and lay half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly across it.
- Form the Meatloaf: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on top of the potato layer.
- Cover with Potatoes: Layer the remaining potato slices over the meatloaf, ensuring it is completely covered.
Baking the Casserole
- Initial Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Remove the foil, sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the top, and return to the oven.
- Final Bake: Bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving the Dish
- Cool Slightly: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor, if desired.
