Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole

Yesterday was a bit damp and a little cool..yea summer in the NW :(..but a good chance to make this casserole for dinner. )  The original recipe called for 1 pkg. Ore-Ida Steam 'n Mash Garlic seasoned potatoes....I chose to make my own mashed potatoes...you try it either way.  This is really easy and comes together quickly.

1 pkg. Ore-Ida Steam 'n Mash Garlic seasoned potatoes or 6 small red potatoes cooked until tender
1# lean ground meat
1/2 c. chopped onion
1/3 c. bread crumbs
1/4 c. barbecue sauce
1 egg
3/4 t. salt
2/3 c. milk
1 T. butter
1 c. bacon bits
1/4 c. crispy fried onions (the canned kind)
2/3 c. cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 375.  Coat a 9 x 9 baking pan with cooking spray.  In a large bowl combine meat, onion, bread crumbs, BBQ sauce, egg, and salt.  Press into baking pan.  Bake for 20-25 minutes.  Carefully pour off any excess fat if needed.

With a mixer, mash potatoes, butter and milk.  Add in bacon bits and fried onions.  Spread on top of baked meat mixture.  Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top.  Broil for 4-5 minutes.