I’ve always had a soft spot for meat loaf. It’s one of those timeless, comforting dishes that brings back childhood memories of family dinners around the kitchen table. The beautiful thing about meat loaf is its versatility. You can customize it to suit your taste, adding different veggies, spices, or even swapping out the meats for a different flavor profile. This particular recipe is a blend of ground beef and pork, providing a rich, robust flavor that sets the stage for the other ingredients to shine. The addition of oats gives the loaf a unique texture, while the tomato juice keeps it moist and succulent. The variety of vegetables used not only adds a burst of freshness but also ups the health quotient. And let’s not forget the herbs and spices. Basil, oregano, paprika, and garlic powder come together to create a melody of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. Want to know the cherry on top? A tangy, sweet glaze that beautifully complements the savory loaf. Now, doesn’t that just make your mouth water? I absolutely adore this recipe and I’m sure you will too.
Ingredients
- 2 lb. ground beef
- 1/2 lb. ground pork
- 1 c. tomato juice
- 3/4 c. oats
- 2 eggs
- 1/3 c. catsup
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 stalk celery, chopped
- 1/4 green pepper, chopped
- 1 small carrot, grated
- 1 tsp. basil leaves
- 1 tsp. oregano
- 1/4 tsp. paprika
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. pepper
- 1 tsp. Worcestershire
- 1 Tbsp. parsley flakes
- 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
- 1 can finely chopped mushrooms (can add)
- 2 Tbsp. brown sugar
- 1/4 c. ketchup
- 1 tsp. mustard
Baking Instructions
- Bake in two loaf pans in 400° oven for 15 minutes, then in 350° oven until brown.
- Can put glaze on top before baking:
Calorie: 350
Total cooking time: 1 hour
Difficulty level: Easy
The Epic Meatloaf Chronicles
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Meatloaf? Really?” But trust me, friends, once you’ve tried this recipe, you’ll be singing a different tune.
Part One: The Gathering of the Ingredients
First off, we’re going to need some ground beef and ground pork. And not just any beef and pork, but the kind that makes you go “Wow, that’s some high-quality cow and pig right there”. You know what I mean, right?
Next, we need some tomato juice, oats, and eggs. Nothing too fancy, just your everyday breakfast staples. Then comes the catsup. Yes, catsup. You know, that stuff that’s like ketchup, but slightly more pretentious? Yeah, that’s the one.
Now, onto the vegetables. We’re talking onion, celery, green pepper, and carrot. All finely chopped and grated. It’s like a mini workout for your hands. Who needs a gym membership when you have a kitchen, am I right?
Spices are up next, my friends. We’re going all in with basil, oregano, paprika, salt, pepper, and a dash of garlic powder. Just a sprinkle of Worcestershire and a handful of parsley flakes. And for an optional twist, let’s throw in some finely chopped mushrooms. Because why not?
Lastly, we’re going to need some brown sugar, ketchup, and mustard. No, we’re not making a BBQ sauce. We’re making a glaze, my dear reader. A glaze to top it all off.
Part Two: The Great Mixing
Once you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time for the fun part. Mixing it all together. It’s like a party where everyone’s invited, but no one knows each other. But don’t worry, it’ll all work out in the end. Just remember to keep the salt and pepper apart. They’ve been arguing again.
Part Three: The Baking Drama
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. You might be thinking, “That’s too hot!” But trust me, it’s not. It’s just right. Split the mixture into two loaf pans and pop them in. Watch as they start to sizzle and pop.
After 15 minutes, reduce the heat to 350 degrees. Yes, it’s like a sauna for your meatloaf. Let it bake until it’s brown and delicious. Oh, and don’t forget the glaze. Slather it on top before baking. It’s like a sweet little hat for your meatloaf.
Part Four: The Grand Finale
Once your meatloaf is baked to perfection, take it out and let it cool. I know, I know, it’s hard to resist. But trust me, it’s worth the wait. Slice it up and serve it with a side of mashed potatoes or a simple salad. The flavors will make your taste buds dance a jig of joy.
So there you have it, folks. A meatloaf that’s not just a boring, old meatloaf. It’s an epic culinary journey. One that’s filled with humor, a bit of drama, and a whole lot of deliciousness.
And remember, in the kitchen, it’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey. So, tie up your apron, roll up your sleeves, and get cooking!
