Surprise Meatloaf Delight

Surprise Meatloaf Squares Recipe

Total Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 out of 5 stars)

Review Count: 1

Calories per Serving: 277.1

Fat Content: 13.3g | Saturated Fat: 5.4g | Cholesterol: 111.8mg | Sodium: 1150.2mg | Carbohydrates: 12.6g | Fiber: 2.3g | Sugar: 4.9g | Protein: 26.1g

Servings: 6

Description:
Indulge in the culinary delight of Surprise Meatloaf Squares, a tantalizing dish that brings together the rich flavors of lean ground beef, eggplants, and a medley of savory ingredients. Perfect for those who appreciate a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With a preparation time of just 20 minutes and a total cook time of 50 minutes, it’s a quick and delightful option for any occasion. Let’s dive into the culinary journey and create a memorable dining experience!

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef
• 2 eggplants, finely diced
• 1/2 onion, minced
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup quick-cooking oats
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) stewed tomatoes
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 3/4 tsp salt (for sauce)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to a toasty 350 degrees Fahrenheit, creating the perfect environment for the flavors to meld.

2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, diced eggplants, minced onion, egg, milk, quick-cooking oats, 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt, and the chopped basil leaves. Mix this medley thoroughly, ensuring a harmonious integration of flavors.

3. Spread and Bake:
   Spread this delightful mixture evenly into an ungreased baking pan, measuring either 8 X 8 X 2 inches or 9 X 9 X 2 inches. Pop it into the preheated oven and let it bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, allowing the aromas to waft through your kitchen.

4. Drain the Excess:
   Once the timer chimes, carefully drain off any excess fat that may have accumulated during the baking process. This step ensures that your dish is not only delicious but also health-conscious.

5. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
   In a small saucepan, combine the stewed tomatoes, minced garlic, cornstarch, and 3/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir this mixture constantly over heat until it thickens and reaches a gentle boil. Continue to boil and stir for an additional 1 minute, allowing the flavors to intensify.

6. Top and Serve:
   Cut the delectable meatloaf into squares, presenting them on your preferred serving dishes. To elevate the dish, generously top each square with the luscious tomato sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds.

7. A Note of Versatility:
   Feel free to experiment with the recipe by substituting any type of summer squash for the eggplant. This allows you to customize the dish based on seasonal availability or personal preference, adding a touch of creativity to your culinary journey.

In Conclusion:
Surprise Meatloaf Squares not only provides a delightful gastronomic experience but also invites you to infuse your own culinary personality. With a balance of savory ground beef, wholesome eggplants, and a burst of aromatic basil, this recipe is a celebration of flavors and textures. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, embark on this culinary adventure and savor the surprise in every bite. From prep to plate, let the aromas guide you through a delightful journey that culminates in a memorable dining experience for you and your loved ones.