I‘m sure as a child, there are many of you who upon hearing the word meatloaf cringed at the thought of having to eat it? Well, I was one of those kids who loved meatloaf, and still do. This recipe is one that I’ve adapted a bit from Miranda Lambert’s recipe that I found on Pinterest a while back.
This is a meal that you can’t be afraid to dig your hands into and get a little dirty as you prepare it. If that’s not for you, then you probably want to stop right there, but just know that you are really missing out. The nice thing about this is that it is very easy and quick to prepare.
Just so you know, this will look like enough food to feed an army; however, it is such a big hit that everyone will be going back for seconds, and before you know it, most of it will be gone. If you are fortunate enough to have any leftovers, this is one of those foods that gets better as it sits in the fridge, and is even more delicious the next day. I’ve eaten it hot, cold, in sandwiches, and it never let’s me down. This is one of those recipes that everyone will keep asking you to make again and again…
Meatloaf Recipe
**note: I pretty much never measure any of this, but just eyeball it all as I throw it in**
1 lb lean ground beef
1 lb ground turkey
1 lb ground sausage (you can play around with different flavors for a little variety in the overall taste, just remember to read the label and see what else is added in before you buy)
1 pack Glutino crackers (plain or multigrain work)
2 eggs
a few dashes of Worcestershire
1 tsp – 1 tbsp prepared mustard (can use different kinds to play with the flavor a little more)
dash of maple syrup
1/2- 1 whole finely chopped bell pepper
1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup ketchup
mushrooms, chopped
Large handful spinach, chopped
Topping:
1 cup ketchup
maple syrup
Mix all of the ingredients together really well in a large bowl (don’t be afraid to dig in with your hands!). Put in a large casserole and shape into a flatter but slightly rounded loaf. Leave just a small amount of space around edges for uniform cooking. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour.
Prepare the topping while the loaf is baking. Blend together 1 cup of ketchup with a dash of maple syrup.
After the loaf is done baking, pour the grease out. Spread the topping generously on the meat. Place the pan back in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. If you want, you can broil it for the last 4-5 minutes to get the top nice and golden. Allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes before cutting to serve.
Enjoy!!! As always, eat well and be merry…Mmmmm
