Let’s embark on a culinary journey into the heart of one of America’s most beloved comfort foods – meatloaf. Imagine a savory masterpiece, crafted from humble ingredients like ground beef, onions, breadcrumbs, and eggs, yet transformed into a hearty and satisfying dish that brings families together around the dinner table.
At its core, meatloaf is a celebration of simplicity and versatility. Picture a mound of seasoned ground beef, mixed with finely chopped onions and garlic, bound together with breadcrumbs and eggs to create a tender yet hearty texture. The beauty of meatloaf lies in its adaptability – it’s a blank canvas just waiting to be customized with your favorite flavors and ingredients.
Now, let’s talk about the seasonings – the key to elevating meatloaf from ordinary to extraordinary. Imagine a medley of herbs and spices dancing together in perfect harmony – fragrant oregano, earthy thyme, pungent garlic, and a hint of smoky paprika, all working together to infuse the meat with depth and complexity. Salt and pepper provide the perfect balance, enhancing the natural flavors of the beef without overpowering them.
But what truly sets meatloaf apart is its comforting familiarity and nostalgic appeal. For many, it’s a dish that evokes memories of childhood dinners and family gatherings, where the aroma of baking meatloaf filled the air and anticipation mounted with each passing minute. It’s a dish that’s as comforting to the soul as it is satisfying to the palate, bringing warmth and nourishment to even the coldest of days.
And let’s not forget about the glaze – the crowning glory of any good meatloaf. Picture a sticky-sweet mixture of ketchup, brown sugar, and tangy Worcestershire sauce, brushed over the top of the loaf before baking. As the meatloaf cooks, the glaze caramelizes into a golden crust, adding a burst of flavor and visual appeal that’s impossible to resist.
Whether served piping hot from the oven or sliced cold for sandwiches the next day, meatloaf is a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. With its hearty flavors, comforting textures, and endless variations, it’s a timeless classic that has earned its place in the pantheon of comfort foods. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to experience the joy of homemade meatloaf – a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your family for years to come.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion peeled and finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper cored, seeded, and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 green chiles roasted, skin removed, seeded, and rough chopped. Hatch,
- Pueblo, or Anaheim peppers.
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons oregano Mexican Oregano preferred.
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 28 ounces tomatoes canned, drained, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cider vinegar
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground sausage
- 3 cups Panko bread crumbs
- 2 eggs lightly beaten
- 1-15 ounce can creamed corn
- 8 Tablespoons catsup
- 8 ounces cheddar cheese grated
DIRECTIONS:
Step1: In a large hot skillet heat olive oil over high heat.
Step2: Add onions, bell pepper, and cook until onions start to turn translucent.
Step3: Add chile peppers, chili powder, salt, oregano, and cumin. Turn down heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally until flavors blend, about 5 minutes.
Step4: Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Add tomatoes and cook stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in vinegar and let cool to room temperature.
Step5: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, combine beef and sausage. Add cooked tomato mixture, bread crumbs, eggs, corn and mix well. Divide mixture into 10 1/2 ounce portions and shape into loaves. Or will make two 9 x 5 loafs.
Step6: Add 1 tablespoon of catsup to each loaf and spread around on the top.
Step7: Bake 40 minutes or until the meat thermometer into the center registers 160 degrees. Pour off any pan juices. Sprinkle cheese evenly over meatloaf and return to oven until cheese melts.
Enjoy 