Cowboy Meatloaf

Satisfy your hunger with Cowboy Meatloaf, a mouthwatering combination of beef, beans, melty cheddar cheese, and tangy BBQ sauce! This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it an instant favorite. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes or on a sandwich, Cowboy Meatloaf is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of ground beef, pinto beans, and BBQ sauce creates a savory taste that everyone will love.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Great for Leftovers: Enjoy the meatloaf as a main dish or use leftovers in sandwiches the next day.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite spices or veggies to personalize the recipe.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Cowboy Meatloaf, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large loaf pan
• Medium skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Large loaf pan: Helps shape the meatloaf evenly for consistent cooking.
• Medium skillet: Essential for sautéing vegetables to enhance their flavors before mixing with the meat.
• Measuring cups: Ensure precise ingredient amounts for perfect results.
• Meat thermometer: Guarantees that the meatloaf reaches a safe internal temperature.

Ingredients

Satisfy your hunger with Cowboy Meatloaf, a mouthwatering combination of beef, beans, melty cheddar cheese, and tangy BBQ sauce!

For the Meatloaf Base

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 small yellow onion, (finely diced)
• 1 green bell pepper, (finely diced)
• 1 teaspoon garlic, (minced)
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 2 large eggs, (beaten)

For the Flavor Boosters

• 1 cup (240 g) canned pinto beans, (drained, rinsed)
• ½ cup (108 g) plain breadcrumbs
• 1 cup (280 g) BBQ sauce, (divided)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon cayenne
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Cheesy Center

• 1 cup (113 g) sharp cheddar cheese, (shredded)

How to Make Cowboy Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a large loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In a medium skillet over medium heat:
1. Add vegetable oil.
2. Once hot, add diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté until softened for about 4-5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute before removing from heat. Let cool slightly.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Combine cooled vegetables with ground beef, eggs, pinto beans, breadcrumbs, ½ cup of BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
2. Mix gently but thoroughly until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep it tender.

Step 4: Shape the Loaf

Transfer half of the meat mixture to your prepared loaf pan:
1. Shape it into a flat loaf.
2. Create a shallow trench down the middle and sprinkle shredded cheese into it.
3. Top with remaining meat mixture and seal edges around cheese filling.

Step 5: Add BBQ Sauce

Brush ¼ cup of remaining BBQ sauce over the top of the meatloaf. Reserve any leftover sauce for later use.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for:
1. 40 minutes initially.
2. Carefully remove from oven and brush with remaining BBQ sauce.
3. Return to oven and bake for another 25-30 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

Allow your Cowboy Meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving it warm.

This delightful dish serves about 8 people and makes for a satisfying meal any night of the week! Enjoy!

How to Serve Cowboy Meatloaf

Cowboy Meatloaf is a hearty dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes complement the flavors of the meatloaf perfectly, providing a comforting base.

Topped with Fried Onions

• Crispy fried onions add a delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor to each slice.

Alongside Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus create a colorful plate, adding freshness to the dish.

Served with Coleslaw

• A tangy coleslaw balances the richness of the meatloaf, bringing a refreshing contrast to each bite.

Accompanied by Cornbread

• Sweet cornbread adds a Southern twist, making for a satisfying combination with every mouthful.

How to Perfect Cowboy Meatloaf

To achieve the best results with your Cowboy Meatloaf, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality ground beef enhance the overall flavor and texture.
• Don’t overmix: Mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense meatloaf.
• Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest after baking helps retain juices and makes slicing easier.
• Customize seasoning: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste. Add more cayenne for heat or extra BBQ sauce for sweetness.
• Monitor cooking time: Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 160°F (71°C) for perfect doneness without drying out.
• Experiment with toppings: Try different sauces or cheese varieties on top for unique flavor combinations.

Best Side Dishes for Cowboy Meatloaf

Pairing your Cowboy Meatloaf with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here’s a list of delightful options.

1. Garlic Bread: Savory garlic bread provides an easy way to soak up delicious juices from the meatloaf.
2. Roasted Broccoli: Simple roasted broccoli adds nutrition and vibrant color while enhancing the hearty flavors.
3. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans offer a classic pairing that matches well with Cowboy Meatloaf’s BBQ essence.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy macaroni and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser and goes well with this flavorful dish.
5. Green Salad: A fresh green salad dressed lightly can cleanse the palate and balance the richness of the meatloaf.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a hint of sweetness and crunch that contrasts beautifully with the savory meatloaf.
7. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings summer vibes and pairs nicely with BBQ flavors.
8. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad is another great option that complements the heartiness of Cowboy Meatloaf.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cowboy Meatloaf, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that could affect the final result. Here are some tips to help you avoid those pitfalls.

• Overmixing the meat: Mixing too much can lead to a tough texture. Gently combine ingredients until just mixed.
• Skipping the veggies: Vegetables add moisture and flavor. Don’t skip sautéing the onions and bell peppers for best results.
• Ignoring cooking time: Cooking it too long or short can ruin your meatloaf. Always check the internal temperature for safety.
• Not resting before slicing: Slicing too soon can cause juices to run out. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes for maximum juiciness.
• Using too much BBQ sauce: While flavor is key, using excess sauce can make it soggy. Reserve some sauce for later application.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cowboy Meatloaf in an airtight container.
• It stays fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cowboy Meatloaf

• Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Cowboy Meatloaf

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Cowboy Meatloaf that may help you perfect your dish.

What is Cowboy Meatloaf?

Cowboy Meatloaf is a hearty dish made with ground beef, beans, cheddar cheese, and BBQ sauce, offering a delicious twist on traditional meatloaf.

Can I customize my Cowboy Meatloaf?

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite spices or vegetables. You can even swap out beef for ground turkey or chicken.

How do I know when my Cowboy Meatloaf is done?

Check with a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F (71°C) in the center to ensure it’s fully cooked.

What sides pair well with Cowboy Meatloaf?

Serve it with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread for a classic meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Final Thoughts

Cowboy Meatloaf is not only delicious but also versatile enough to accommodate various tastes. You can easily customize this recipe with different spices or ingredients based on what you have on hand. Give this hearty dish a try—your taste buds will thank you!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Cowboy Meatloaf

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x

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Description

Savor the deliciousness of Cowboy Meatloaf, a hearty dish that combines ground beef, pinto beans, melty cheddar cheese, and zesty BBQ sauce. This comfort food classic is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering rich flavors and a satisfying texture that will impress everyone at the table. Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes or on a sandwich for an easy meal that’s sure to become a favorite. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly and customizable to suit your taste.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup canned pinto beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (divided)
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup plain breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion (finely diced)
• 1 green bell pepper (finely diced)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon cayenne
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly spray a large loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onion and green bell pepper in vegetable oil until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooled vegetables with ground beef, eggs, pinto beans, breadcrumbs, ½ cup of BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
4. Transfer half of the meat mixture to the loaf pan, creating a shallow trench down the middle for the cheese. Place shredded cheese in the trench then top with remaining meat mixture.
5. Brush the top with ¼ cup of BBQ sauce and bake for about 65 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 65 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 90mg