Zero’s Southwestern Meatloaf: A Family Favorite
When it comes to satisfying, comforting meals, nothing quite compares to a hearty meatloaf, especially one that’s as flavorful and versatile as Zero’s Southwestern Meatloaf. This dish, a staple at family gatherings and a regular on the menu every couple of weeks, combines three types of ground meat for a savory, satisfying experience that’s sure to please everyone at the table. The secret to its unbeatable taste lies in the blend of ground beef, ground pork, and veal, complemented by a medley of breadcrumbs, chipotle peppers, and Worcestershire sauce, all of which create a meatloaf that’s both juicy and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 pound veal
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup croutons
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 chipotle pepper, finely chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
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Prepare the Croutons: Begin by processing the croutons into fine crumbs using a food processor. If you don’t have one, you can place the croutons in a sturdy bag and crush them using a rolling pin until you achieve the desired texture. These crumbs will add a delightful texture to your meatloaf.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, veal, eggs, rolled oats, crouton crumbs, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, chipotle pepper, and chopped onion. Add the salt and pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly by hand until all the ingredients are well incorporated. This ensures that the flavors meld beautifully and that each bite is as delicious as the last.
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Shape and Bake: Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet, depending on your preference. If using a loaf pan, make sure it’s lightly greased or lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour and 45 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
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Rest and Serve: Once baked, allow the meatloaf to rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the juices redistribute throughout the meatloaf, making each slice moist and flavorful.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 445.5
- Fat: 25.9 grams
- Saturated Fat: 9.8 grams
- Cholesterol: 191.3 milligrams
- Sodium: 293.5 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 11.6 grams
- Fiber: 1.7 grams
- Sugar: 3.2 grams
- Protein: 39.5 grams
Serving Suggestions
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a side of mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad. For an added Southwestern twist, consider serving it with a side of corn on the cob or a fresh salsa. The leftovers are also fantastic for sandwiches or as a topping for a hearty salad.
Storage Tips
If you’re making this meatloaf in advance or have leftovers, it’s easy to store. Simply wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze portions of the meatloaf for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Enjoy this delicious, protein-packed meatloaf that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or stocking your freezer for easy meals throughout the week. The combination of meats and seasonings ensures each bite is full of flavor and satisfaction. Happy cooking! 😊🍽️
