Hot Patootie, bless my soul, I really love that rock n roll!
That song, that performance, changed my life in many ways. The first time I ever saw the Rocky Horror Picture Show, it was a transformative experience. If you’ve been yourself, you get it. If you haven’t, get to a midnight showing as soon as you’re able.
I know sharing a meatloaf recipe this week is a little obvious, and I would never in a million years make light of someone’s death. I’ve so enjoyed thinking back on Meat Loaf’s creative genius the last few days— one of the greatest artists in Rock Opera. My guess is the man would be absolutely tickled to know his streams grew by 4,650% in the last week. It’s true— Google it.
While Meat Loaf and I certainly disagreed on the politics of the day, I think music (as well as food) is a powerful tool for building bridges. I’m forever thankful to his contribution to pop culture. Rest in peace, Meat Loaf.
And without further ado:
My Grandmother’s Meatloaf Recipe.
If you’re on the fence about meatloaf, this recipe will change your mind. With three different ground meats and a salty, smoky touch of bacon, this recipe has a rich, complex flavor profile that’s hard to beat.
The whole family will love this hearty meal, and the delicious meatloaf sandwich leftovers you’ll be serving the rest of the week.
Grandma's Meatloaf
Servings: 6 to 8
Total: 30 minutes active cooking; 2 hours 45 minutes total
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1Â pound ground veal
1 pound ground pork
1 tablespoon butter
1 large onion minced
3 ribs minced celery
8 ounces frozen spinach, blanched and drained very well
2 pinches nutmeg
1 cup chopped tomato
2 cups bread crumbs
1/4 cup milk
2 eggs beaten
1 tablespoon salt
4 tablespoons tomato paste
2 slices bacon
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 300 degrees.
Place the butter in a large sauté pan over high heat.
Add the onion, spinach, celery, nutmeg and tomato. Cook until soft and glassy and all liquids are evaporated.
In a large mixing bowl, combine all of the sautéed veggies with the milk, bread crumbs, eggs and ground meats.
Mix well. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Place one whole slice of bacon in a large rectangular loaf pan (a 5-by-10 inch loaf pan works well).
Add the meats all in one motion, making sure to create a rounded, smooth top.
Spread tomato paste over the top. Place second piece of bacon over the paste.
Put the loaf pan into a 300-degree oven for 2 hours.
Remove the meatloaf and let cool for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
If you’re looking for a simple side to go with this, check out my roasted root vegetable recipe. It’s different than what’s pictured, but equally delicious.
So… are you a meatloaf fan? What about a Meat Loaf fan? Share in the comments. -AZ
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The best meatloaf I've ever made. Recipe #8