Smoky Cajun BBQ Meatloaf: A Spicy Twist on Classic Comfort 🌶️🍖

Half-Cajun BBQ Meatloaf 🍖🔥

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf

Description:

Looking for a twist on traditional meatloaf? Try this Half-Cajun BBQ Meatloaf, a fusion of Paul Prudhomme’s Cajun flavors and a Betty Crocker classic. It’s a little spicy, a lot flavorful, and incredibly easy to whip up. Perfect for a hearty family dinner or a casual gathering with friends!

Ingredients:

2 lbs ground beef
1/4 tsp ground sage
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp dry mustard
1/4 tsp pepper
1 tsp white pepper
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
A dash of Tabasco sauce
A splash of Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup evaporated milk
1 cup ketchup
1 egg
BBQ sauce (for topping)

Instructions:

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that it’s ready to go when your meatloaf is assembled and ready for baking.
Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients except for the BBQ sauce. Use your hands to mix everything together thoroughly. This is where the magic happens, as the flavors meld together to create a deliciously seasoned meatloaf.
Form Loaf: Once all the ingredients are well combined, transfer the mixture to a 9 x 5 x 3 loaf pan. Use your hands to shape the mixture into a compact loaf, making sure it’s evenly distributed in the pan.
Top with BBQ Sauce: Generously spread BBQ sauce over the top of the meatloaf. This not only adds flavor but also helps keep the meat moist and tender during baking.
Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes.
Increase Temperature: After 35 minutes, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and continue baking for an additional 25 minutes. This higher temperature helps to caramelize the BBQ sauce on top, adding a deliciously sticky glaze to the meatloaf.
Serve: Once fully cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful meatloaf.
Enjoy: Slice the Half-Cajun BBQ Meatloaf into thick slices and serve it up alongside your favorite sides. Whether it’s creamy mashed potatoes, buttery cornbread, or crisp green beans, this meatloaf is sure to be a hit at the dinner table!

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 2772.7
Fat: 158.1g
- Saturated Fat: 62.3g
Cholesterol: 864.9mg
Sodium: 10164.4mg
Carbohydrates: 127.3g
- Fiber: 6.5g
- Sugar: 36.7g
Protein: 201.1g

Notes:

Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your preference. If you like it extra spicy, add more Tabasco sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat slices in the microwave or oven for a quick and satisfying meal.