Alethea’s Great Green Chile Meatloaf

Alethea’s Great Green Chile Meatloaf is a delicious dish with a unique twist, featuring green chiles as one of its key ingredients. While I don’t have specific information about the history or origin of this particular meatloaf recipe, I can provide you with a general overview of its components and steps to prepare it, as well as an estimate of the time needed.

Components:

1. Ground Meat: You will typically need ground beef, though a combination of beef and pork can also be used for added flavor.
2. Green Chiles: The star ingredient, green chiles add a mild heat and a distinct flavor to the meatloaf. You can use canned diced green chiles or roast and dice fresh ones.
3. Breadcrumbs: To bind the mixture and give the meatloaf structure.
4. Eggs: Eggs act as a binder and help hold the meatloaf together.
5. Spices and Seasonings: Common spices include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cumin. Adjust these to your taste.
6. Onion: Finely chopped onions add flavor and moisture to the meatloaf.
7. Cheese (optional): Some recipes call for shredded cheese, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, to add extra richness.
8. Sauce (optional): A green chile sauce can be used as a topping for extra flavor.

Steps to Prepare:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, diced green chiles, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, finely chopped onions, spices, and cheese if using. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.

3. Shape the Meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking dish.

4. Bake: Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. The exact time can vary depending on the size and thickness of your meatloaf. It’s important to ensure it’s cooked through, so an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) is a good indicator.

5. Optional Topping: If desired, you can spread a green chile sauce over the top of the meatloaf during the last 15 minutes of baking.

6. Rest and Serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meatloaf moist. Slice and serve.

Time Needed:

The total time needed to prepare Alethea’s Great Green Chile Meatloaf can vary, but it typically takes around 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, including prep and baking time. Keep in mind that larger meatloafs may require a bit more time in the oven, so using a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked is a good practice.

Enjoy your delicious Green Chile Meatloaf!

I don’t have access to specific nutrition facts for Alethea’s Great Green Chile Meatloaf since it’s a specific recipe and the nutritional content can vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used. However, I can provide some general information on the potential health aspects of meatloaf with green chiles:

Nutritional Profile:

1. Protein: Meatloaf is a good source of protein, thanks to the ground meat used in the recipe.

2. Fats: The fat content can vary depending on the type of meat used. Leaner meats will have less fat, while a combination of beef and pork can have higher fat content.

3. Carbohydrates: Breadcrumbs and any added vegetables (like onions) contribute to the carbohydrate content.

4. Fiber: If you include vegetables like onions or bell peppers, there will be some dietary fiber.

5. Vitamins and Minerals: The inclusion of green chiles can add vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C.

6. Sodium: Be cautious with the salt content, as it can contribute to higher sodium levels.

7. Calories: The total calorie count will depend on the ingredients and portion size.

Health Considerations:

1. Protein: Meat is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.

2. Fats: Consider using lean ground meat or draining excess fat after cooking to reduce saturated fat content.

3. Vegetables: Adding vegetables like green chiles can increase the nutritional value of the dish and provide vitamins and antioxidants.

4. Sodium: Be mindful of salt intake, especially if you’re using canned green chiles or adding extra salt. High sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure.

5. Portion Control: Pay attention to portion sizes to manage calorie intake.

6. Serving Suggestions: Pair your meatloaf with a variety of vegetables or a side salad to increase the overall nutritional value of your meal.

To get precise nutrition facts for your specific recipe, you may need to use a nutrition calculator or consult a registered dietitian who can analyze the exact ingredients and proportions you use in your Alethea’s Great Green Chile Meatloaf recipe.