Not Your Grandma's Meatloaf!

I've never been a fan of traditional meatloaf. I like it in theory, but it's always been a bland let-down to me. Also, I don't like the ketchup and/or BBQ sauce that most meatloaf is slathered in. Just doesn't work for me. This recipe works because the sweetness of ketchup is replaced by tomato sauce.




Although I call this "spicy" meatloaf, to me, it's really not that spicy. Just full of great flavors. I call it spicy though because I know others have a bigger sensitivity to strong flavors. This one gets the most of its "spicy" from hot Italian turkey sausage. There is one jalapeno in it, but as long as you take the seeds and veins out of it, you shouldn't find it hot at all. All of the spices along with veggies that are left with a little bit of crunch make this a great comfort food!

Not Your Grandma's Meatloaf

Prep time: 25 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hr 15 minutes
Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 large celery stalk, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3/4 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1 cup dry Italian bread crumbs
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 lb hot Italian turkey sausage

Directions:

In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil. Saute onion, celery, garlic, and jalapeno in the hot pan and cook until vegetables are tender, but not browned or mushy, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the salt, cumin, and nutmeg, mixing well.

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, then blend in the milk, tomato sauce, and breadcrumbs. Add the two meats and cooked vegetables and stir or work with hands until well combined.

Pat into 8" round casserole pan. Bake 1 hour and 15 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the middle registers 150 degrees. Remove from oven and carefully pour off fat. Let stand 10 minutes before serving. 

Served with Syracuse salt potatoes and garlic green beans