PAULA DEEN MEATLOAF RECIPE

If you’re like me and have hesitated to try a Paula Deen recipe due to her notorious use of butter, you might be pleasantly surprised by her meatloaf recipe. Despite my reservations, I decided to dive in and see what the fuss was about since it has garnered quite a bit of attention from food lovers everywhere. Let me take you through the process, share some tips, and see if this meatloaf is worth your time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy simplicity in their cooking. With a short ingredient list and straightforward instructions, it’s ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, the blend of flavors is comforting and nostalgic, reminiscent of classic home-cooked meals.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl
• 9×5-inch loaf pan or a 9×13-inch baking dish
• Oven
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or spoon for mixing

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1¼ teaspoons salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ cup chopped onion
• ½ cup chopped bell pepper
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup diced canned tomatoes with their juice
• ½ cup quick cooking oats

For the Topping:

• ⅓ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, egg, diced tomatoes with juice, and oats. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture into a 9×5-inch loaf pan or shape it into a loaf in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread this topping evenly over the meatloaf.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through.
6. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overmix the meatloaf ingredients as this can make the loaf dense.
• If you can’t find an 8-ounce can of diced tomatoes, use just over half of a 14.5-ounce can.
• Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps it hold its shape better.

Additional Tips or Variations

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some Worcestershire sauce or garlic powder to the meat mixture. You can also experiment with different types of mustard in the topping for a unique twist.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 300
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 20g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a lighter version, but note that the flavor and texture may change slightly.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

Can I make this meatloaf in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and topping ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Conclusion

There you have it—a simple and hearty meatloaf recipe that’s sure to please. Whether you’re a Paula Deen fan or just looking for a reliable meatloaf recipe, this one is worth a try. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so feel free to share your experiences and any tweaks you made in the comments below. Happy cooking!