For years, meatloaf was my go-to Sunday dinner. My kids knew that if it was Sunday, there was a good chance there'd be meatloaf on the table, along with potatoes (either baked or mashed), another veggie, and dessert.
So, with that, here are six yummy meatloaf recipes to help you through tonight's dinner (and maybe even with left-overs; yum!), including Cajun-Style Meatloaf and Individual Meat Loaves. Enjoy!
SIMPLE MEATLOAF WITH OPTIONAL TOPPING
This comes from Diana Rattray on The Spruce Eats. Diana wrote, “This delicious and simple meatloaf recipe is a great fit for Sunday dinner. Feel free to use plain ketchup to top this dish, or, if you're feeling a little adventurous, make the optional topping. For a tasty meal, serve the meatloaf with homemade mashed potatoes and peas and carrots or your favorite vegetables.
“Note: Ground beef with a ratio of 80/20 or 85/20 will produce the moistest and most flavorful meatloaf. Baking the meatloaf in a specialty meatloaf pan or on a rack will help drain away some of the excess fat. If you don't have either, you can make a free-form loaf on a foil-lined rimmed baking sheet or 9-by-13-by-2-inch baking pan.”
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 80 minutes; Total Time: 95 minutes; Yield: 6 servings.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
For the Optional Glaze/Topping:
4 tablespoons ketchup
4 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
2 tablespoons Dijon (or similar mustard)
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
For the Meatloaf:
2 pounds ground beef
2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
1/2 cup milk
1 cup fine dry breadcrumbs (plain)
2 tablespoons dried minced onion (or 1/2 cup finely minced fresh onion)
1 1/2 teaspoons burger seasoning (or 1 1/4 teaspoons salt and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper)
1/2 cup ketchup (plus more for topping, if desired)
Directions
Gather the ingredients.
Heat over to 350 degrees F.
Spray a 9-by-5-by-3-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
If using the optional topping, in a small bowl, combine 4 tablespoons ketchup, maple syrup, mustard and Worcestershire until well mixed. Set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, milk, breadcrumbs, onion, burger seasoning, and 1/2 cup of ketchup.
Mix until well blended and pack into the prepared loaf pan.
Bake the meatloaf for 1 hour and 10 minutes. Carefully drain off any excess fat and then top the loaf with the optional topping mixture or about 4 tablespoons of ketchup. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes longer.
Serve and enjoy!
Tips
Ground beef with a ratio of 80/20 or 85/20 will produce the moistest and most flavorful meatloaf. Baking the meatloaf in a specialty meatloaf pan or on a rack will help drain away some of the excess fat. If you don't have either, you can make a free-form loaf on a foil-lined rimmed baking sheet or 9 x 13 x 2-inch baking pan.
Experiment with meat mixtures in meatloaf. While beef gives excellent flavor and holds together well, adding a portion of lean ground pork will provide juiciness. Ground veal would add lightness to a loaf, and ground chicken or turkey would reduce some of the fat and calories.
Top the meatloaf with prepared barbecue sauce just before it's finished baking.
Use cracker crumbs or soft breadcrumbs in the meatloaf instead of fine dry breadcrumbs.
Line the loaf pan with parchment paper or foil, like a sling. Just grab the ends of the paper or foil and lift the meatloaf out of the pan when it's done.
Bake the meatloaf in individual muffin cups. Use about 1/4 cup of meatloaf mixture for each muffin cup.
Pack the meatloaf mixture into individual oiled ramekins, and then invert them onto a rimmed baking sheet for perfectly shaped individual meatloaves.
Instead of breadcrumbs, use crushed cheese crackers in the meat mixture.
Top a meatloaf with strips of bacon before baking, or add crumbled cooked bacon to the meat mixture.
INDIVIDUAL MEAT LOAVES
This yummy recipe is from Ina Garten on the Food Network. Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 45 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes; Level: Intermediate; Yield: 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/individual-meat-loaves-recipe-1952034.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon good olive oil
3 cups chopped yellow onions (3 onions)
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1/3 cup canned chicken stock or broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 1/2 pounds ground chuck (81 percent lean)
1/2 cup plain dry bread crumbs (recommended: Progresso)
2 extra-large eggs, beaten
1/2 cup ketchup (recommended: Heinz)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Heat the olive oil in a medium saute pan. Add the onions, thyme, salt, and pepper and cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes, until the onions are translucent but not brown. Off the heat, add the Worcestershire sauce, chicken stock, and tomato paste. Allow to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine the ground chuck, onion mixture, bread crumbs, and eggs, and mix lightly with a fork. Don't mash or the meatloaf will be dense.
Divide the mixture into 6 (10 to 11-ounce) portions and shape each portion into a small loaf on a sheet pan. Spread about a tablespoon of ketchup on the top of each portion. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the internal temperature is 155 to 160 degrees F and the meat loaves are cooked through. Serve hot.
PHILLY-STYLE MEATLOAF
This recipe begins, “Bring the warmth and rich flavor of Philly into your home with this delicious meatloaf. And it only takes an hour to bake with limited amount of prep time.”
This is from Diabetic Connect.
View this online at http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/6672-philly-style-meatloaf
Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds ground beef
1 1/4 teaspoons salt
1 egg
1 dash ground black pepper
1 cup soft bread crumbs
1/2 cup milk
1/3 cup steak sauce, (e.g. Heinz 57)
1 onion, chopped
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease an 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 inch loaf pan.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, egg, black pepper and bread crumbs. Pour in the milk, 3 tablespoons of the steak sauce, onion and green bell pepper.
Place the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape into a loaf. Brush the top with the remaining steak sauce.
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until done. Allow to stand 5 minutes before slicing.
Nutritional Facts: Servings: 6; Calories – 286; Carbohydrates – 9.5g; Total Fat – 17.9g; Protein – 20.9g; Sodium – 805mg; Dietary Fiber - 0.9g
CAJUN-STYLE MEATLOAF
This comes from Diana Rattray at The Spruce Eats. She wrote, "This Cajun-style meatloaf is packed with flavor and healthy ingredients. The loaf is made with ground beef and ground pork, making for a moist and flavorful meatloaf. The "holy trinity" of onion, bell pepper, and celery, along with Cajun seasonings give the meatloaf Louisiana flavor.
"Use ketchup or chili sauce as a topping for the meatloaf, or make a delicious homemade Creole sauce for topping and serving. Fresh or store-bought salsa is another excellent option.
"Serve meatloaf sliced with some ketchup or salsa on the side. Some sides that go well with meatloaf are boiled or mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, green beans, corn, peas, and broccoli."
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 75 minutes; Total Time: 95 minutes; Makes 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.thespruceeats.com/spicy-cajun-seasoned-meatloaf-3058296.
Ingredients
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1/4 cup onion (finely chopped)
1/4 cup red bell pepper (or green, finely chopped)
1/4 cup celery (finely chopped)
1 large egg (beaten)
1/4 cup milk
1/3 cup finely ground breadcrumbs
1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork (or more beef)
1 medium tomato (seeds removed, cored, finely chopped)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt-free Cajun seasoning
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
Optional: ketchup (or chili sauce)
Directions
Heat the oven to 350 F.
Line a rimmed baking pan with foil or spray a 9-by-5-by-3-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 2 to 3 minutes. Set aside to cool.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg with the milk; add the breadcrumbs, beef and pork, chopped tomato, Cajun seasoning, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Add the cooled vegetable mixture and blend well with your hands.
Optionally, to check a meatloaf for seasoning, take a small amount and shape it into a flat patty. Fry the patty until it is cooked through and taste it. Adjust the seasonings, as needed.
Loosely pack the meatloaf mixture into the prepared baking pan or loaf pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
If desired, spread ketchup or chili sauce over the top of the meatloaf about 10 minutes before done.
Tips
If your Cajun seasoning contains salt, increase the Cajun seasoning to 2 1/2 teaspoons and decrease the salt to 1/2 teaspoon.
To check a meatloaf for doneness, use a reliable instant-read thermometer. The minimum safe temperature for ground beef or pork is 160 F. Ground poultry must be cooked to a temperature of at least 165 F.
Instead of the classic loaf shape, bake the meatloaf mixture in muffin tins.
Bake two loaves and freeze one for a future meal.
CHEESY TACO MEATLOAF
This comes from Campbell's Soup, and begins, “It takes just 10 minutes and a few ingredients to put together this scrumptious meatloaf...and when it comes out of the oven you've got two family favorites, tacos and meatloaf, combined into one tasty dish!”
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 1 hr 15 minutes; Serves: 8
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
2 pounds ground beef
1 jar (16 ounces) Pace® Chunky Salsa or Pace® Picante Sauce - Medium
1 1/2 ounces tortilla chips, crushed (about 1/2 cup)
1 egg
1 teaspoon chili powder
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
Directions
Set the oven to 350°F. Thoroughly mix the beef, 1 cup salsa, tortilla chips, egg, chili powder, salt and black pepper in a large bowl. Place the beef mixture into a 3-quart shallow baking pan and shape into an 9x4-inch loaf.
Bake for 1 hour or until the meatloaf is cooked through.
Spread the remaining salsa over the meatloaf and sprinkle with the cheese. Bake for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
TURKEY MEATLOAF WITH FETA AND SUN-DRIED TOMATOES
This is from Giada de Laurentiis on the Food Network show, Giada at Home.
Total: 1 hr 5 min; Prep: 15 min; Inactive: 5 min; Cook: 45 min; Yield: 4 to 6 servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
Vegetable cooking spray
1/2 cup plain bread crumbs
1/3 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/4 cup chopped garlic and herb-marinated sun-dried tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced, optional
2 eggs, at room temperature, lightly beaten
2 tablespoons whole milk
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 pound ground turkey, preferably dark meat
Directions
Place an oven rack in the center of the oven. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Spray a 9 by 5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, stir together the bread crumbs, parsley, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, if using, eggs, milk, feta, salt, and pepper. Add the turkey and gently stir to combine, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Carefully pack the meat mixture into the prepared pan and bake until the internal temperature registers 165 degrees F on an instant-read thermometer, about 45 minutes. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board and slice. Put on a serving platter and serve.
Showing posts with label Cajun-Style Meatloaf. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Cajun-Style Meatloaf. Show all posts
Thursday, October 7, 2021
Wednesday, February 17, 2021
Where's the Beef?
If you've been around since the 1980s, or love watching old commercials, you're aware of one of the age-old questions: Where's the beef?.
Okay, so it's not necessarily an age-old question, but you get the idea. And to answer the question, today's post deals with beefy recipes, including Cajun-Style Meatloaf and Steak, Roasted Tomato and Bean Chili. Enjoy!
IRISH TACOS
This comes from Sam Sifton in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. He wrote, "You can certainly eat corned beef with boiled cabbage and carrots, but it can be a great deal more exciting to pile the shredded meat — ruddy pink, salty, fatty and meltingly sweet — into warm flour tortillas, then top it with a bright, crunchy, slightly fiery cabbage slaw. The contrast between the soft and the crisp, the salt and the sweet, is fantastic — particularly if you adorn each taco with a few pickled jalapeños and, perhaps, an additional swipe of mayonnaise. It’s not fusion cooking, nor appropriation. It’s just the fact that everything tastes good on a warm tortilla."
Yield: 6 to 8 servings; Time: 30 minutes
This was featured in "What if You Could Make Great Corned Beef?", and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1018643-irish-tacos.
Ingredients
2 to 2 1/2 pounds corned beef (see recipe)
1 small head of green cabbage, cored and thinly sliced
3 carrots, peeled and sliced into julienne
1 cup mayonnaise
3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
3 tablespoons cider vinegar
Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste
1 1/2 tablespoons hot pepper sauce, or to taste
12 to 16 flour tortillas, warmed
Sliced fresh or pickled jalapeños
Preparation
Warm the corned beef in its cooking liquid, or wrap it in foil and set on a sheet pan in a 350-degree oven for 20 minutes or so.
Make the coleslaw: Mix cabbage and carrots together in a large bowl.
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yogurt or sour cream, cider vinegar, salt, pepper and hot pepper sauce to taste.
Pour half the sauce over the cabbage and carrots and toss to coat thoroughly. Season to taste. Reserve remaining sauce.
When the corned beef is hot, remove from liquid or foil and use two forks to shred it. Serve with the warmed tortillas, sliced jalapeños, the slaw, remaining white sauce and some hot pepper sauce.
HOMEMADE CORNED BEEF
This comes from Sam Sifton in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. He wrote, "“The reason to corn your own beef is flavor,” said Michael Ruhlman, a chef and passionate advocate of the process. He wrote about it with Brian Polcyn in their book, “Charcuterie: The Craft of Salting, Smoking and Curing.” “You can achieve tastes that aren’t available in the mass produced versions,” he said. Feel free to experiment with the “pickling spices” called for below — you can customize them, if you like, from a base of coriander seeds, black peppercorns and garlic — but please do not omit the curing salt, which gives the meat immense flavor in addition to a reddish hue. (It’s perfectly safe, Mr. Ruhlman exhorts: “It’s not a chemical additive. Most of the nitrates we eat come in vegetables!”) Finally, if you want a traditional boiled dinner, slide quartered cabbage and some peeled carrots into the braise for the final hour or so of cooking. Or use the meat for Irish tacos."
Yield: 3 to 12 servings; Time: 3 hours, plus 5 days' bring
This was featured in "What if You Could Make Great Corned Beef?", and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1018642-homemade-corned-beef.
Ingredients
2 cups coarse kosher salt
1/2 cup sugar
5 garlic cloves, smashed
5 tablespoons pickling spices
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon pink curing salt (sodium nitrite)
1 4- to 5-pound beef brisket
2 bottles of good beer
2 bottles of good ginger beer
Preparation
Brine the brisket: In a medium pot set over high heat, combine about a gallon of water, the salt, the sugar, the garlic, 3 tablespoons pickling spices and the pink curing salt. Stir mixture as it heats until sugar and salt are dissolved, about 1 minute. Transfer liquid to a container large enough for the brine and the brisket, then refrigerate until liquid is cool.
Place brisket in the cooled liquid and weigh the meat down with a plate so it is submerged. Cover container and place in the refrigerator for 5 days, or up to 7 days, turning every day or so.
To cook brisket, remove it from the brine and rinse under cool water. Place in a pot just large enough to hold it and cover with one of the beers and one of the ginger beers. If you need more liquid to cover the meat, add enough of the other beer, and the other ginger beer, to do so. Add remaining 2 tablespoons pickling spices. Bring to a boil over high heat, then turn heat to low so liquid is barely simmering. Cover and let cook until you can easily insert a fork into the meat, about 3 hours, adding water along the way if needed to cover the brisket.
Keep warm until serving, or let cool in the liquid and reheat when ready to eat, up to three or four days. Slice thinly and serve on sandwiches, in Irish tacos (see recipe) or with carrots and cabbage simmered until tender in the cooking liquid.
INDIVIDUAL MEAT LOAVES
This yummy recipe is from Ina Garten on the Food Network. Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 45 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes; Level: Intermediate; Yield: 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/individual-meat-loaves-recipe-1952034.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon good olive oil
3 cups chopped yellow onions (3 onions)
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1/3 cup canned chicken stock or broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 1/2 pounds ground chuck (81 percent lean)
1/2 cup plain dry bread crumbs (recommended: Progresso)
2 extra-large eggs, beaten
1/2 cup ketchup (recommended: Heinz)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Heat the olive oil in a medium saute pan. Add the onions, thyme, salt, and pepper and cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes, until the onions are translucent but not brown. Off the heat, add the Worcestershire sauce, chicken stock, and tomato paste. Allow to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine the ground chuck, onion mixture, bread crumbs, and eggs, and mix lightly with a fork. Don't mash or the meatloaf will be dense.
Divide the mixture into 6 (10 to 11-ounce) portions and shape each portion into a small loaf on a sheet pan. Spread about a tablespoon of ketchup on the top of each portion. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the internal temperature is 155 to 160 degrees F and the meat loaves are cooked through. Serve hot.
STEAK, ROASTED TOMATO AND BEAN CHILI
Recipe Yield: Makes 8 servings.
Source: TBC
Recipe and photo appears courtesy of Cattlemen's Beef Promotion Board.
To view this online, go to https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/steak-roasted-tomato-and-bean-chili.
Ingredients
3 pounds Shoulder Steaks, cut 3/4-inch thick
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
2-1/2 cups no-salt added roasted tomato salsa
1/4 cup chili powder
2 tsp ground cumin
2 cans (15 ounces each) no-salt added black beans, rinsed, drained
Optional Toppings/Additions
Guacamole, chopped fresh cilantro, chopped purple onion, chopped tomato, shredded cheese
Directions
Cut beef steaks into 3/4-inch pieces.
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in stockpot over medium heat until hot. Brown beef in three batches. Set aside.
Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil, bell pepper and onion to same stockpot. Cook and stir 6 to 8 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
Return beef and accumulated juices to stockpot.
Add salsa, chili powder and cumin; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover tightly and simmer 1-3/4 to 2-1/4 hours or until beef is fork-tender.
Stir in beans; cook, uncovered, 10 to 15 minutes or until beans are heated through, stirring occasionally.
Serve chili in bowls. Garnish with Toppings, as desired.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 289; Fat: 10 g; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Fiber: 6 g; Sodium: 264 mg; Cholesterol: 78 mg; Protein: 32 g; Carbohydrates: 23 g
CAJUN-STYLE MEATLOAF
This comes from Diana Rattray at The Spruce Eats. She wrote, "This Cajun-style meatloaf is packed with flavor and healthy ingredients. The loaf is made with ground beef and ground pork, making for a moist and flavorful meatloaf. The "holy trinity" of onion, bell pepper, and celery, along with Cajun seasonings give the meatloaf Louisiana flavor.
"Use ketchup or chili sauce as a topping for the meatloaf, or make a delicious homemade Creole sauce for topping and serving. Fresh or store-bought salsa is another excellent option.
"Serve meatloaf sliced with some ketchup or salsa on the side. Some sides that go well with meatloaf are boiled or mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, green beans, corn, peas, and broccoli."
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 75 minutes; Total Time: 95 minutes; Makes 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.thespruceeats.com/spicy-cajun-seasoned-meatloaf-3058296.
Ingredients
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1/4 cup onion (finely chopped)
1/4 cup red bell pepper (or green, finely chopped)
1/4 cup celery (finely chopped)
1 large egg (beaten)
1/4 cup milk
1/3 cup finely ground breadcrumbs
1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork (or more beef)
1 medium tomato (seeds removed, cored, finely chopped)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt-free Cajun seasoning
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
Optional: ketchup (or chili sauce)
Directions
Heat the oven to 350 F.
Line a rimmed baking pan with foil or spray a 9-by-5-by-3-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 2 to 3 minutes. Set aside to cool.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg with the milk; add the breadcrumbs, beef and pork, chopped tomato, Cajun seasoning, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Add the cooled vegetable mixture and blend well with your hands.
Optionally, to check a meatloaf for seasoning, take a small amount and shape it into a flat patty. Fry the patty until it is cooked through and taste it. Adjust the seasonings, as needed.
Loosely pack the meatloaf mixture into the prepared baking pan or loaf pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
If desired, spread ketchup or chili sauce over the top of the meatloaf about 10 minutes before done.
Tips
If your Cajun seasoning contains salt, increase the Cajun seasoning to 2 1/2 teaspoons and decrease the salt to 1/2 teaspoon.
To check a meatloaf for doneness, use a reliable instant-read thermometer. The minimum safe temperature for ground beef or pork is 160 F. Ground poultry must be cooked to a temperature of at least 165 F.
Instead of the classic loaf shape, bake the meatloaf mixture in muffin tins.
Bake two loaves and freeze one for a future meal.
GOULASH
This is from Molly O'Neill at The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Molly wrote, "There is no high drama about simmering a stew. However fine, stew is a homey, intimate exchange, a paean to the way living things improve when their boundaries relax, when they incorporate some of the character and flavor of others. Soulful, a word inextricably linked with a good sturdy stew, is the payoff to the cook who plans a little and has the patience to abide."
Yield: 4 servings; Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
This recipe was featured in "A Simmer of Hope", and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/4736-goulash.
Ingredients
2 teaspoons unsalted butter
2 medium onions, peeled and thinly sliced
2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika
1 teaspoon caraway seeds
1 pound beef stewing meat, trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth, homemade or low-sodium canned
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons salt, plus more to taste
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
Preparation
Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted, about 10 minutes. Stir in the paprika and caraway seeds and cook 1 minute more. In a bowl, toss the beef with the flour to coat well. Add the beef to the onion mixture. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes.
Add 1/2 cup of the broth, stirring and scraping the bottom of the pot. Gradually stir in the remaining broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a slow simmer. Cover and cook until the beef is tender, about 1 1/2 hours. Stir in the lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste. Serve over wide egg noodles.
Okay, so it's not necessarily an age-old question, but you get the idea. And to answer the question, today's post deals with beefy recipes, including Cajun-Style Meatloaf and Steak, Roasted Tomato and Bean Chili. Enjoy!
IRISH TACOS
This comes from Sam Sifton in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. He wrote, "You can certainly eat corned beef with boiled cabbage and carrots, but it can be a great deal more exciting to pile the shredded meat — ruddy pink, salty, fatty and meltingly sweet — into warm flour tortillas, then top it with a bright, crunchy, slightly fiery cabbage slaw. The contrast between the soft and the crisp, the salt and the sweet, is fantastic — particularly if you adorn each taco with a few pickled jalapeños and, perhaps, an additional swipe of mayonnaise. It’s not fusion cooking, nor appropriation. It’s just the fact that everything tastes good on a warm tortilla."
Yield: 6 to 8 servings; Time: 30 minutes
This was featured in "What if You Could Make Great Corned Beef?", and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1018643-irish-tacos.
Ingredients
2 to 2 1/2 pounds corned beef (see recipe)
1 small head of green cabbage, cored and thinly sliced
3 carrots, peeled and sliced into julienne
1 cup mayonnaise
3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
3 tablespoons cider vinegar
Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste
1 1/2 tablespoons hot pepper sauce, or to taste
12 to 16 flour tortillas, warmed
Sliced fresh or pickled jalapeños
Preparation
Warm the corned beef in its cooking liquid, or wrap it in foil and set on a sheet pan in a 350-degree oven for 20 minutes or so.
Make the coleslaw: Mix cabbage and carrots together in a large bowl.
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yogurt or sour cream, cider vinegar, salt, pepper and hot pepper sauce to taste.
Pour half the sauce over the cabbage and carrots and toss to coat thoroughly. Season to taste. Reserve remaining sauce.
When the corned beef is hot, remove from liquid or foil and use two forks to shred it. Serve with the warmed tortillas, sliced jalapeños, the slaw, remaining white sauce and some hot pepper sauce.
HOMEMADE CORNED BEEF
This comes from Sam Sifton in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. He wrote, "“The reason to corn your own beef is flavor,” said Michael Ruhlman, a chef and passionate advocate of the process. He wrote about it with Brian Polcyn in their book, “Charcuterie: The Craft of Salting, Smoking and Curing.” “You can achieve tastes that aren’t available in the mass produced versions,” he said. Feel free to experiment with the “pickling spices” called for below — you can customize them, if you like, from a base of coriander seeds, black peppercorns and garlic — but please do not omit the curing salt, which gives the meat immense flavor in addition to a reddish hue. (It’s perfectly safe, Mr. Ruhlman exhorts: “It’s not a chemical additive. Most of the nitrates we eat come in vegetables!”) Finally, if you want a traditional boiled dinner, slide quartered cabbage and some peeled carrots into the braise for the final hour or so of cooking. Or use the meat for Irish tacos."
Yield: 3 to 12 servings; Time: 3 hours, plus 5 days' bring
This was featured in "What if You Could Make Great Corned Beef?", and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1018642-homemade-corned-beef.
Ingredients
2 cups coarse kosher salt
1/2 cup sugar
5 garlic cloves, smashed
5 tablespoons pickling spices
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon pink curing salt (sodium nitrite)
1 4- to 5-pound beef brisket
2 bottles of good beer
2 bottles of good ginger beer
Preparation
Brine the brisket: In a medium pot set over high heat, combine about a gallon of water, the salt, the sugar, the garlic, 3 tablespoons pickling spices and the pink curing salt. Stir mixture as it heats until sugar and salt are dissolved, about 1 minute. Transfer liquid to a container large enough for the brine and the brisket, then refrigerate until liquid is cool.
Place brisket in the cooled liquid and weigh the meat down with a plate so it is submerged. Cover container and place in the refrigerator for 5 days, or up to 7 days, turning every day or so.
To cook brisket, remove it from the brine and rinse under cool water. Place in a pot just large enough to hold it and cover with one of the beers and one of the ginger beers. If you need more liquid to cover the meat, add enough of the other beer, and the other ginger beer, to do so. Add remaining 2 tablespoons pickling spices. Bring to a boil over high heat, then turn heat to low so liquid is barely simmering. Cover and let cook until you can easily insert a fork into the meat, about 3 hours, adding water along the way if needed to cover the brisket.
Keep warm until serving, or let cool in the liquid and reheat when ready to eat, up to three or four days. Slice thinly and serve on sandwiches, in Irish tacos (see recipe) or with carrots and cabbage simmered until tender in the cooking liquid.
INDIVIDUAL MEAT LOAVES
This yummy recipe is from Ina Garten on the Food Network. Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 45 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes; Level: Intermediate; Yield: 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/individual-meat-loaves-recipe-1952034.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon good olive oil
3 cups chopped yellow onions (3 onions)
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1/3 cup canned chicken stock or broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 1/2 pounds ground chuck (81 percent lean)
1/2 cup plain dry bread crumbs (recommended: Progresso)
2 extra-large eggs, beaten
1/2 cup ketchup (recommended: Heinz)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Heat the olive oil in a medium saute pan. Add the onions, thyme, salt, and pepper and cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes, until the onions are translucent but not brown. Off the heat, add the Worcestershire sauce, chicken stock, and tomato paste. Allow to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine the ground chuck, onion mixture, bread crumbs, and eggs, and mix lightly with a fork. Don't mash or the meatloaf will be dense.
Divide the mixture into 6 (10 to 11-ounce) portions and shape each portion into a small loaf on a sheet pan. Spread about a tablespoon of ketchup on the top of each portion. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the internal temperature is 155 to 160 degrees F and the meat loaves are cooked through. Serve hot.
STEAK, ROASTED TOMATO AND BEAN CHILI
Recipe Yield: Makes 8 servings.
Source: TBC
Recipe and photo appears courtesy of Cattlemen's Beef Promotion Board.
To view this online, go to https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/steak-roasted-tomato-and-bean-chili.
Ingredients
3 pounds Shoulder Steaks, cut 3/4-inch thick
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
2-1/2 cups no-salt added roasted tomato salsa
1/4 cup chili powder
2 tsp ground cumin
2 cans (15 ounces each) no-salt added black beans, rinsed, drained
Optional Toppings/Additions
Guacamole, chopped fresh cilantro, chopped purple onion, chopped tomato, shredded cheese
Directions
Cut beef steaks into 3/4-inch pieces.
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in stockpot over medium heat until hot. Brown beef in three batches. Set aside.
Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil, bell pepper and onion to same stockpot. Cook and stir 6 to 8 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
Return beef and accumulated juices to stockpot.
Add salsa, chili powder and cumin; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover tightly and simmer 1-3/4 to 2-1/4 hours or until beef is fork-tender.
Stir in beans; cook, uncovered, 10 to 15 minutes or until beans are heated through, stirring occasionally.
Serve chili in bowls. Garnish with Toppings, as desired.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 289; Fat: 10 g; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Fiber: 6 g; Sodium: 264 mg; Cholesterol: 78 mg; Protein: 32 g; Carbohydrates: 23 g
CAJUN-STYLE MEATLOAF
This comes from Diana Rattray at The Spruce Eats. She wrote, "This Cajun-style meatloaf is packed with flavor and healthy ingredients. The loaf is made with ground beef and ground pork, making for a moist and flavorful meatloaf. The "holy trinity" of onion, bell pepper, and celery, along with Cajun seasonings give the meatloaf Louisiana flavor.
"Use ketchup or chili sauce as a topping for the meatloaf, or make a delicious homemade Creole sauce for topping and serving. Fresh or store-bought salsa is another excellent option.
"Serve meatloaf sliced with some ketchup or salsa on the side. Some sides that go well with meatloaf are boiled or mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, green beans, corn, peas, and broccoli."
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 75 minutes; Total Time: 95 minutes; Makes 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.thespruceeats.com/spicy-cajun-seasoned-meatloaf-3058296.
Ingredients
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1/4 cup onion (finely chopped)
1/4 cup red bell pepper (or green, finely chopped)
1/4 cup celery (finely chopped)
1 large egg (beaten)
1/4 cup milk
1/3 cup finely ground breadcrumbs
1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork (or more beef)
1 medium tomato (seeds removed, cored, finely chopped)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt-free Cajun seasoning
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
Optional: ketchup (or chili sauce)
Directions
Heat the oven to 350 F.
Line a rimmed baking pan with foil or spray a 9-by-5-by-3-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 2 to 3 minutes. Set aside to cool.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg with the milk; add the breadcrumbs, beef and pork, chopped tomato, Cajun seasoning, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Add the cooled vegetable mixture and blend well with your hands.
Optionally, to check a meatloaf for seasoning, take a small amount and shape it into a flat patty. Fry the patty until it is cooked through and taste it. Adjust the seasonings, as needed.
Loosely pack the meatloaf mixture into the prepared baking pan or loaf pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
If desired, spread ketchup or chili sauce over the top of the meatloaf about 10 minutes before done.
Tips
If your Cajun seasoning contains salt, increase the Cajun seasoning to 2 1/2 teaspoons and decrease the salt to 1/2 teaspoon.
To check a meatloaf for doneness, use a reliable instant-read thermometer. The minimum safe temperature for ground beef or pork is 160 F. Ground poultry must be cooked to a temperature of at least 165 F.
Instead of the classic loaf shape, bake the meatloaf mixture in muffin tins.
Bake two loaves and freeze one for a future meal.
GOULASH
This is from Molly O'Neill at The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Molly wrote, "There is no high drama about simmering a stew. However fine, stew is a homey, intimate exchange, a paean to the way living things improve when their boundaries relax, when they incorporate some of the character and flavor of others. Soulful, a word inextricably linked with a good sturdy stew, is the payoff to the cook who plans a little and has the patience to abide."
Yield: 4 servings; Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
This recipe was featured in "A Simmer of Hope", and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/4736-goulash.
Ingredients
2 teaspoons unsalted butter
2 medium onions, peeled and thinly sliced
2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika
1 teaspoon caraway seeds
1 pound beef stewing meat, trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth, homemade or low-sodium canned
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons salt, plus more to taste
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
Preparation
Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted, about 10 minutes. Stir in the paprika and caraway seeds and cook 1 minute more. In a bowl, toss the beef with the flour to coat well. Add the beef to the onion mixture. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes.
Add 1/2 cup of the broth, stirring and scraping the bottom of the pot. Gradually stir in the remaining broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a slow simmer. Cover and cook until the beef is tender, about 1 1/2 hours. Stir in the lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste. Serve over wide egg noodles.
Wednesday, February 10, 2021
Meatloaf
For years, meatloaf was my go-to Sunday dinner. My kids knew that if it was Sunday, there was a good chance there'd be meatloaf on the table, along with potatoes (either baked or mashed), another veggie, and dessert.
So, with that, here are six yummy meatloaf recipes to help you through tonight's dinner (and maybe even with left-overs; yum!), including Cajun-Style Meatloaf and Individual Meat Loaves. Enjoy!
SIMPLE MEATLOAF WITH OPTIONAL TOPPING
This comes from Diana Rattray on The Spruce Eats. Diana wrote, “This delicious and simple meatloaf recipe is a great fit for Sunday dinner. Feel free to use plain ketchup to top this dish, or, if you're feeling a little adventurous, make the optional topping. For a tasty meal, serve the meatloaf with homemade mashed potatoes and peas and carrots or your favorite vegetables.
“Note: Ground beef with a ratio of 80/20 or 85/20 will produce the moistest and most flavorful meatloaf. Baking the meatloaf in a specialty meatloaf pan or on a rack will help drain away some of the excess fat. If you don't have either, you can make a free-form loaf on a foil-lined rimmed baking sheet or 9-by-13-by-2-inch baking pan.”
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 80 minutes; Total Time: 95 minutes; Yield: 6 servings.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
For the Optional Glaze/Topping:
4 tablespoons ketchup
4 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
2 tablespoons Dijon (or similar mustard)
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
For the Meatloaf:
2 pounds ground beef
2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
1/2 cup milk
1 cup fine dry breadcrumbs (plain)
2 tablespoons dried minced onion (or 1/2 cup finely minced fresh onion)
1 1/2 teaspoons burger seasoning (or 1 1/4 teaspoons salt and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper)
1/2 cup ketchup (plus more for topping, if desired)
Directions
Gather the ingredients.
Heat over to 350 degrees F.
Spray a 9-by-5-by-3-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
If using the optional topping, in a small bowl, combine 4 tablespoons ketchup, maple syrup, mustard and Worcestershire until well mixed. Set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, milk, breadcrumbs, onion, burger seasoning, and 1/2 cup of ketchup.
Mix until well blended and pack into the prepared loaf pan.
Bake the meatloaf for 1 hour and 10 minutes. Carefully drain off any excess fat and then top the loaf with the optional topping mixture or about 4 tablespoons of ketchup. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes longer.
Serve and enjoy!
Tips
Ground beef with a ratio of 80/20 or 85/20 will produce the moistest and most flavorful meatloaf. Baking the meatloaf in a specialty meatloaf pan or on a rack will help drain away some of the excess fat. If you don't have either, you can make a free-form loaf on a foil-lined rimmed baking sheet or 9 x 13 x 2-inch baking pan.
Experiment with meat mixtures in meatloaf. While beef gives excellent flavor and holds together well, adding a portion of lean ground pork will provide juiciness. Ground veal would add lightness to a loaf, and ground chicken or turkey would reduce some of the fat and calories.
Top the meatloaf with prepared barbecue sauce just before it's finished baking.
Use cracker crumbs or soft breadcrumbs in the meatloaf instead of fine dry breadcrumbs.
Line the loaf pan with parchment paper or foil, like a sling. Just grab the ends of the paper or foil and lift the meatloaf out of the pan when it's done.
Bake the meatloaf in individual muffin cups. Use about 1/4 cup of meatloaf mixture for each muffin cup.
Pack the meatloaf mixture into individual oiled ramekins, and then invert them onto a rimmed baking sheet for perfectly shaped individual meatloaves.
Instead of breadcrumbs, use crushed cheese crackers in the meat mixture.
Top a meatloaf with strips of bacon before baking, or add crumbled cooked bacon to the meat mixture.
INDIVIDUAL MEAT LOAVES
This yummy recipe is from Ina Garten on the Food Network. Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 45 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes; Level: Intermediate; Yield: 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/individual-meat-loaves-recipe-1952034.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon good olive oil
3 cups chopped yellow onions (3 onions)
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1/3 cup canned chicken stock or broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 1/2 pounds ground chuck (81 percent lean)
1/2 cup plain dry bread crumbs (recommended: Progresso)
2 extra-large eggs, beaten
1/2 cup ketchup (recommended: Heinz)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Heat the olive oil in a medium saute pan. Add the onions, thyme, salt, and pepper and cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes, until the onions are translucent but not brown. Off the heat, add the Worcestershire sauce, chicken stock, and tomato paste. Allow to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine the ground chuck, onion mixture, bread crumbs, and eggs, and mix lightly with a fork. Don't mash or the meatloaf will be dense.
Divide the mixture into 6 (10 to 11-ounce) portions and shape each portion into a small loaf on a sheet pan. Spread about a tablespoon of ketchup on the top of each portion. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the internal temperature is 155 to 160 degrees F and the meat loaves are cooked through. Serve hot.
PHILLY-STYLE MEATLOAF
This recipe begins, “Bring the warmth and rich flavor of Philly into your home with this delicious meatloaf. And it only takes an hour to bake with limited amount of prep time.”
This is from Diabetic Connect.
View this online at http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/6672-philly-style-meatloaf
Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds ground beef
1 1/4 teaspoons salt
1 egg
1 dash ground black pepper
1 cup soft bread crumbs
1/2 cup milk
1/3 cup steak sauce, (e.g. Heinz 57)
1 onion, chopped
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease an 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 inch loaf pan.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, egg, black pepper and bread crumbs. Pour in the milk, 3 tablespoons of the steak sauce, onion and green bell pepper.
Place the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape into a loaf. Brush the top with the remaining steak sauce.
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until done. Allow to stand 5 minutes before slicing.
Nutritional Facts: Servings: 6; Calories – 286; Carbohydrates – 9.5g; Total Fat – 17.9g; Protein – 20.9g; Sodium – 805mg; Dietary Fiber - 0.9g
CAJUN-STYLE MEATLOAF
This comes from Diana Rattray at The Spruce Eats. She wrote, "This Cajun-style meatloaf is packed with flavor and healthy ingredients. The loaf is made with ground beef and ground pork, making for a moist and flavorful meatloaf. The "holy trinity" of onion, bell pepper, and celery, along with Cajun seasonings give the meatloaf Louisiana flavor.
"Use ketchup or chili sauce as a topping for the meatloaf, or make a delicious homemade Creole sauce for topping and serving. Fresh or store-bought salsa is another excellent option.
"Serve meatloaf sliced with some ketchup or salsa on the side. Some sides that go well with meatloaf are boiled or mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, green beans, corn, peas, and broccoli."
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 75 minutes; Total Time: 95 minutes; Makes 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.thespruceeats.com/spicy-cajun-seasoned-meatloaf-3058296.
Ingredients
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1/4 cup onion (finely chopped)
1/4 cup red bell pepper (or green, finely chopped)
1/4 cup celery (finely chopped)
1 large egg (beaten)
1/4 cup milk
1/3 cup finely ground breadcrumbs
1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork (or more beef)
1 medium tomato (seeds removed, cored, finely chopped)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt-free Cajun seasoning
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
Optional: ketchup (or chili sauce)
Directions
Heat the oven to 350 F.
Line a rimmed baking pan with foil or spray a 9-by-5-by-3-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 2 to 3 minutes. Set aside to cool.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg with the milk; add the breadcrumbs, beef and pork, chopped tomato, Cajun seasoning, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Add the cooled vegetable mixture and blend well with your hands.
Optionally, to check a meatloaf for seasoning, take a small amount and shape it into a flat patty. Fry the patty until it is cooked through and taste it. Adjust the seasonings, as needed.
Loosely pack the meatloaf mixture into the prepared baking pan or loaf pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
If desired, spread ketchup or chili sauce over the top of the meatloaf about 10 minutes before done.
Tips
If your Cajun seasoning contains salt, increase the Cajun seasoning to 2 1/2 teaspoons and decrease the salt to 1/2 teaspoon.
To check a meatloaf for doneness, use a reliable instant-read thermometer. The minimum safe temperature for ground beef or pork is 160 F. Ground poultry must be cooked to a temperature of at least 165 F.
Instead of the classic loaf shape, bake the meatloaf mixture in muffin tins.
Bake two loaves and freeze one for a future meal.
CHEESY TACO MEATLOAF
This comes from Campbell's Soup, and begins, “It takes just 10 minutes and a few ingredients to put together this scrumptious meatloaf...and when it comes out of the oven you've got two family favorites, tacos and meatloaf, combined into one tasty dish!”
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 1 hr 15 minutes; Serves: 8
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
2 pounds ground beef
1 jar (16 ounces) Pace® Chunky Salsa or Pace® Picante Sauce - Medium
1 1/2 ounces tortilla chips, crushed (about 1/2 cup)
1 egg
1 teaspoon chili powder
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
Directions
Set the oven to 350°F. Thoroughly mix the beef, 1 cup salsa, tortilla chips, egg, chili powder, salt and black pepper in a large bowl. Place the beef mixture into a 3-quart shallow baking pan and shape into an 9x4-inch loaf.
Bake for 1 hour or until the meatloaf is cooked through.
Spread the remaining salsa over the meatloaf and sprinkle with the cheese. Bake for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
TURKEY MEATLOAF WITH FETA AND SUN-DRIED TOMATOES
This is from Giada de Laurentiis on the Food Network show, Giada at Home.
Total: 1 hr 5 min; Prep: 15 min; Inactive: 5 min; Cook: 45 min; Yield: 4 to 6 servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
Vegetable cooking spray
1/2 cup plain bread crumbs
1/3 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/4 cup chopped garlic and herb-marinated sun-dried tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced, optional
2 eggs, at room temperature, lightly beaten
2 tablespoons whole milk
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 pound ground turkey, preferably dark meat
Directions
Place an oven rack in the center of the oven. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Spray a 9 by 5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, stir together the bread crumbs, parsley, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, if using, eggs, milk, feta, salt, and pepper. Add the turkey and gently stir to combine, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Carefully pack the meat mixture into the prepared pan and bake until the internal temperature registers 165 degrees F on an instant-read thermometer, about 45 minutes. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board and slice. Put on a serving platter and serve.
So, with that, here are six yummy meatloaf recipes to help you through tonight's dinner (and maybe even with left-overs; yum!), including Cajun-Style Meatloaf and Individual Meat Loaves. Enjoy!
SIMPLE MEATLOAF WITH OPTIONAL TOPPING
This comes from Diana Rattray on The Spruce Eats. Diana wrote, “This delicious and simple meatloaf recipe is a great fit for Sunday dinner. Feel free to use plain ketchup to top this dish, or, if you're feeling a little adventurous, make the optional topping. For a tasty meal, serve the meatloaf with homemade mashed potatoes and peas and carrots or your favorite vegetables.
“Note: Ground beef with a ratio of 80/20 or 85/20 will produce the moistest and most flavorful meatloaf. Baking the meatloaf in a specialty meatloaf pan or on a rack will help drain away some of the excess fat. If you don't have either, you can make a free-form loaf on a foil-lined rimmed baking sheet or 9-by-13-by-2-inch baking pan.”
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 80 minutes; Total Time: 95 minutes; Yield: 6 servings.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
For the Optional Glaze/Topping:
4 tablespoons ketchup
4 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
2 tablespoons Dijon (or similar mustard)
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
For the Meatloaf:
2 pounds ground beef
2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
1/2 cup milk
1 cup fine dry breadcrumbs (plain)
2 tablespoons dried minced onion (or 1/2 cup finely minced fresh onion)
1 1/2 teaspoons burger seasoning (or 1 1/4 teaspoons salt and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper)
1/2 cup ketchup (plus more for topping, if desired)
Directions
Gather the ingredients.
Heat over to 350 degrees F.
Spray a 9-by-5-by-3-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
If using the optional topping, in a small bowl, combine 4 tablespoons ketchup, maple syrup, mustard and Worcestershire until well mixed. Set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, milk, breadcrumbs, onion, burger seasoning, and 1/2 cup of ketchup.
Mix until well blended and pack into the prepared loaf pan.
Bake the meatloaf for 1 hour and 10 minutes. Carefully drain off any excess fat and then top the loaf with the optional topping mixture or about 4 tablespoons of ketchup. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes longer.
Serve and enjoy!
Tips
Ground beef with a ratio of 80/20 or 85/20 will produce the moistest and most flavorful meatloaf. Baking the meatloaf in a specialty meatloaf pan or on a rack will help drain away some of the excess fat. If you don't have either, you can make a free-form loaf on a foil-lined rimmed baking sheet or 9 x 13 x 2-inch baking pan.
Experiment with meat mixtures in meatloaf. While beef gives excellent flavor and holds together well, adding a portion of lean ground pork will provide juiciness. Ground veal would add lightness to a loaf, and ground chicken or turkey would reduce some of the fat and calories.
Top the meatloaf with prepared barbecue sauce just before it's finished baking.
Use cracker crumbs or soft breadcrumbs in the meatloaf instead of fine dry breadcrumbs.
Line the loaf pan with parchment paper or foil, like a sling. Just grab the ends of the paper or foil and lift the meatloaf out of the pan when it's done.
Bake the meatloaf in individual muffin cups. Use about 1/4 cup of meatloaf mixture for each muffin cup.
Pack the meatloaf mixture into individual oiled ramekins, and then invert them onto a rimmed baking sheet for perfectly shaped individual meatloaves.
Instead of breadcrumbs, use crushed cheese crackers in the meat mixture.
Top a meatloaf with strips of bacon before baking, or add crumbled cooked bacon to the meat mixture.
INDIVIDUAL MEAT LOAVES
This yummy recipe is from Ina Garten on the Food Network. Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 45 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes; Level: Intermediate; Yield: 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/individual-meat-loaves-recipe-1952034.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon good olive oil
3 cups chopped yellow onions (3 onions)
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1/3 cup canned chicken stock or broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 1/2 pounds ground chuck (81 percent lean)
1/2 cup plain dry bread crumbs (recommended: Progresso)
2 extra-large eggs, beaten
1/2 cup ketchup (recommended: Heinz)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Heat the olive oil in a medium saute pan. Add the onions, thyme, salt, and pepper and cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes, until the onions are translucent but not brown. Off the heat, add the Worcestershire sauce, chicken stock, and tomato paste. Allow to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine the ground chuck, onion mixture, bread crumbs, and eggs, and mix lightly with a fork. Don't mash or the meatloaf will be dense.
Divide the mixture into 6 (10 to 11-ounce) portions and shape each portion into a small loaf on a sheet pan. Spread about a tablespoon of ketchup on the top of each portion. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the internal temperature is 155 to 160 degrees F and the meat loaves are cooked through. Serve hot.
PHILLY-STYLE MEATLOAF
This recipe begins, “Bring the warmth and rich flavor of Philly into your home with this delicious meatloaf. And it only takes an hour to bake with limited amount of prep time.”
This is from Diabetic Connect.
View this online at http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/6672-philly-style-meatloaf
Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds ground beef
1 1/4 teaspoons salt
1 egg
1 dash ground black pepper
1 cup soft bread crumbs
1/2 cup milk
1/3 cup steak sauce, (e.g. Heinz 57)
1 onion, chopped
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease an 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 inch loaf pan.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, egg, black pepper and bread crumbs. Pour in the milk, 3 tablespoons of the steak sauce, onion and green bell pepper.
Place the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape into a loaf. Brush the top with the remaining steak sauce.
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until done. Allow to stand 5 minutes before slicing.
Nutritional Facts: Servings: 6; Calories – 286; Carbohydrates – 9.5g; Total Fat – 17.9g; Protein – 20.9g; Sodium – 805mg; Dietary Fiber - 0.9g
CAJUN-STYLE MEATLOAF
This comes from Diana Rattray at The Spruce Eats. She wrote, "This Cajun-style meatloaf is packed with flavor and healthy ingredients. The loaf is made with ground beef and ground pork, making for a moist and flavorful meatloaf. The "holy trinity" of onion, bell pepper, and celery, along with Cajun seasonings give the meatloaf Louisiana flavor.
"Use ketchup or chili sauce as a topping for the meatloaf, or make a delicious homemade Creole sauce for topping and serving. Fresh or store-bought salsa is another excellent option.
"Serve meatloaf sliced with some ketchup or salsa on the side. Some sides that go well with meatloaf are boiled or mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, green beans, corn, peas, and broccoli."
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 75 minutes; Total Time: 95 minutes; Makes 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.thespruceeats.com/spicy-cajun-seasoned-meatloaf-3058296.
Ingredients
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1/4 cup onion (finely chopped)
1/4 cup red bell pepper (or green, finely chopped)
1/4 cup celery (finely chopped)
1 large egg (beaten)
1/4 cup milk
1/3 cup finely ground breadcrumbs
1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork (or more beef)
1 medium tomato (seeds removed, cored, finely chopped)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt-free Cajun seasoning
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
Optional: ketchup (or chili sauce)
Directions
Heat the oven to 350 F.
Line a rimmed baking pan with foil or spray a 9-by-5-by-3-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 2 to 3 minutes. Set aside to cool.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg with the milk; add the breadcrumbs, beef and pork, chopped tomato, Cajun seasoning, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Add the cooled vegetable mixture and blend well with your hands.
Optionally, to check a meatloaf for seasoning, take a small amount and shape it into a flat patty. Fry the patty until it is cooked through and taste it. Adjust the seasonings, as needed.
Loosely pack the meatloaf mixture into the prepared baking pan or loaf pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
If desired, spread ketchup or chili sauce over the top of the meatloaf about 10 minutes before done.
Tips
If your Cajun seasoning contains salt, increase the Cajun seasoning to 2 1/2 teaspoons and decrease the salt to 1/2 teaspoon.
To check a meatloaf for doneness, use a reliable instant-read thermometer. The minimum safe temperature for ground beef or pork is 160 F. Ground poultry must be cooked to a temperature of at least 165 F.
Instead of the classic loaf shape, bake the meatloaf mixture in muffin tins.
Bake two loaves and freeze one for a future meal.
CHEESY TACO MEATLOAF
This comes from Campbell's Soup, and begins, “It takes just 10 minutes and a few ingredients to put together this scrumptious meatloaf...and when it comes out of the oven you've got two family favorites, tacos and meatloaf, combined into one tasty dish!”
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 1 hr 15 minutes; Serves: 8
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
2 pounds ground beef
1 jar (16 ounces) Pace® Chunky Salsa or Pace® Picante Sauce - Medium
1 1/2 ounces tortilla chips, crushed (about 1/2 cup)
1 egg
1 teaspoon chili powder
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
Directions
Set the oven to 350°F. Thoroughly mix the beef, 1 cup salsa, tortilla chips, egg, chili powder, salt and black pepper in a large bowl. Place the beef mixture into a 3-quart shallow baking pan and shape into an 9x4-inch loaf.
Bake for 1 hour or until the meatloaf is cooked through.
Spread the remaining salsa over the meatloaf and sprinkle with the cheese. Bake for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
TURKEY MEATLOAF WITH FETA AND SUN-DRIED TOMATOES
This is from Giada de Laurentiis on the Food Network show, Giada at Home.
Total: 1 hr 5 min; Prep: 15 min; Inactive: 5 min; Cook: 45 min; Yield: 4 to 6 servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
Vegetable cooking spray
1/2 cup plain bread crumbs
1/3 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/4 cup chopped garlic and herb-marinated sun-dried tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced, optional
2 eggs, at room temperature, lightly beaten
2 tablespoons whole milk
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 pound ground turkey, preferably dark meat
Directions
Place an oven rack in the center of the oven. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Spray a 9 by 5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, stir together the bread crumbs, parsley, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, if using, eggs, milk, feta, salt, and pepper. Add the turkey and gently stir to combine, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Carefully pack the meat mixture into the prepared pan and bake until the internal temperature registers 165 degrees F on an instant-read thermometer, about 45 minutes. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board and slice. Put on a serving platter and serve.
Friday, January 22, 2021
Friday Recipes
It's finally Friday, time to get ready for another weekend. Here are six yummy recipes to help you through the weekend, including Cajun-Style Meatloaf and Healthy Grilled Pizza Burgers. (Do I have your attention now?) Enjoy!
EASY BEEF BURRITO SKILLET
This is from Old El Paso, and begins, "This tasty one pan dish is done in less than 20 minutes and dishes are done in less than 1!"
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes; Makes 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/easy-beef-burrito-skillet.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 (1 oz) package Old El Paso™ taco seasoning mix
1 cup water
1 cup chunky salsa
1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
4 (6 inch) Old El Paso™ Flour Tortillas, sliced into 1-inch strips
1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup sliced green onions
Preparation
In a large skillet, brown beef until no longer pink. Drain. Add taco seasoning, water, salsa, and beans. Cook over medium heat for 3-5 minutes or until the sauce thickens. Reduce heat to low.
Stir in the tortilla strips and then top with cheese. Remove skillet from heat and let cheese melt.
Top with sour cream in the center and sprinkle with green onions. Serve immediately.
Expert Tips
Use a mild salsa if you're making it for kids.
You can stack your tortillas and use a pizza cutter to slice them all in one easy step.
LEMON MERINGUE COOKIES
This is from Dorie Greenspan at The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Dorie wrote, "Like their inspiration, lemon meringue pie, these cookies have three elements. They’re built on simple, slice-and-bake French shortbread cookies, rich, buttery and flavored with vanilla. The shortbread base is almost classic, except that the cookies are baked in muffin tins, so they’re straight-sided and deeply golden brown. The 'filling' is lemon curd, and the topping is crunchy bits of meringue. You get crumbly, velvety and crackly, sweet and tart in every bite. These cookies were created for an imaginary friend, Chief Inspector Armand Gamache, the hero of 16 Louise Penny novels, and a man who considers lemon meringue divine."
Yield: 24 cookies; Time: 2 hours
This was featured in "A Lemon Meringue Cookie Good Enough to Be Imaginary", and can be found online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1021686-lemon-meringue-cookies.
Note: If you didn't click on the link to the featured article that this cookie recipe came from (or if you did, but didn't read the article), you really should read it. Dorie Greenspan's article is well worth the read; heck, it's worth several reads. Maybe make up a batch of these, then sit back to enjoy both cookies and the article. (Thanks for both, Dorie!)
Ingredients
For the Meringue:
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons confectioners’ sugar
1 large egg white, at room temperature
1/4 teaspoon distilled vinegar (or lemon juice)
Pinch of fine sea salt
For the Shortbread:
1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), cut into chunks and brought to room temperature, plus more for greasing the muffin tin
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
2 large egg yolks, at room temperature
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 cups plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
About 1/3 cup store-bought or homemade lemon curd
Preparation
Make the meringue: Heat oven to 250 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a small bowl, stir together both sugars.
Working with an electric mixer, beat the egg white, vinegar and salt on medium-high speed until the mixture forms soft peaks, about 3 minutes. Add the sugar mixture 1 tablespoon at a time, beating after each addition. Once the sugar is incorporated, beat 2 minutes more; you’ll have stiff, glossy, white peaks. Put the meringue on the baking sheet and spread it 1/4-inch thick. (It will cover only a small part of the sheet.)
Bake the meringue undisturbed for 35 minutes. Turn off the heat, prop open the oven door and let it dry for 1 hour. When you’re ready to use it, chop it into pieces about the size of chocolate chips. Precision doesn’t matter.
Make the shortbread: Working with a mixer (use the paddle if it’s a stand mixer), beat the butter, both sugars and the salt on medium speed for about 3 minutes, until smooth but not fluffy. On low speed, beat in the yolks, one at a time, followed by the vanilla. Add the flour in three additions, mixing on low until the dough comes together in large clumps. Turn out the dough and knead it into a ball. Cut the ball in half.
Shape each half into a 6-inch log. Wrap it and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. (You could also freeze it for up to 2 months; leave it on the counter for 1 hour before baking.)
When you’re ready to bake the cookies, heat oven to 350 degrees. Coat 1 or 2 muffin tins with butter (or nonstick baking spray).
Slice each log into 12 rounds (each 1/2-inch thick); drop one into each muffin cup. (If you don’t have enough tins, you can work in batches.)
Bake for 21 to 23 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown around the rims. Transfer the tin(s) to a rack, cool for 5 minutes, then lift the cookies out and onto racks; cool to room temperature.
Just before serving, top each cookie with lemon curd, then top with ample chunks of meringue, pressing them into the curd. The meringue will keep in a cool, dry place for a few days, and the cookies can be kept at room temperature for about 3 days. But once you top the cookies, they’re best eaten soon after.
AIR FRYER LOADED TACO FRIES
This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "While this recipe for air fryer taco fries was initially inspired by Taco Bell’s™ Nacho Fries, we got a little carried away and ended up creating something even better! Sure, these taco fries are healthier for you than the original recipe thanks to the air fryer, but they are also packed with Mexican spices and piled high with loads of delicious and savory nacho toppings. Top it all with our genius hack for amazingly simple spiced sour cream - don’t worry it’s delicious but not complicated, just add Old El Paso™ original taco seasoning to sour cream and pour it on everything. These air fryer taco fries are instant crowd-favorites, so be prepared to make this recipe a second time soon!"
Prep Time: 35 minutes; Total Time: 35 minutes; Makes 8 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/air-fryer-loaded-taco-fries.
Ingredients
1/3 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon Old El Paso™ original taco seasoning mix (from 1-oz package)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon Old El Paso™ original taco seasoning mix (from 1-oz package)
16 oz (4 cups) frozen French-fried potatoes (from 32-oz bag)
1 cup shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese (4 oz)
1/2 medium avocado, pitted, peeled and diced (1/2 cup)
1/4 cup diced tomato
2 tablespoons sliced green onions (2 green onions)
2 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro leaves
Preparation
In small bowl, mix Seasoned Sour Cream ingredients. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
In large bowl, mix oil and 1 tablespoon taco seasoning mix. Add frozen potatoes; toss to coat. Pour mixture into air fryer basket. Set to 400°F; cook 22 to 26 minutes or until crispy, shaking basket every 5 minutes.
Transfer to microwavable serving plate. Top with cheese. Microwave uncovered on High 30 to 90 seconds or until cheese melts. Top with avocado, tomato, green onions and cilantro. Serve with seasoned sour cream.
Nutrition: 1 Serving Calories 220 (Calories from Fat 130); Total Fat 14g (Saturated Fat 5g, Trans Fat 0g); Cholesterol 20mg; Sodium 170mg; Total Carbohydrate 17g (Dietary Fiber 2g, Sugars 1g); Protein 5g
% Daily Value: Vitamin A 4%; Vitamin C 6%; Calcium 10%; Iron 2%
Exchanges: 1/2 Starch, 1/2 Other Carbohydrate, 1/2 High-Fat Meat, 2 Fat
INDIVIDUAL MEAT LOAVES
This yummy recipe is from Ina Garten on the Food Network. Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 45 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes; Level: Intermediate; Yield: 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/individual-meat-loaves-recipe-1952034.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon good olive oil
3 cups chopped yellow onions (3 onions)
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1/3 cup canned chicken stock or broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 1/2 pounds ground chuck (81 percent lean)
1/2 cup plain dry bread crumbs (recommended: Progresso)
2 extra-large eggs, beaten
1/2 cup ketchup (recommended: Heinz)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Heat the olive oil in a medium saute pan. Add the onions, thyme, salt, and pepper and cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes, until the onions are translucent but not brown. Off the heat, add the Worcestershire sauce, chicken stock, and tomato paste. Allow to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine the ground chuck, onion mixture, bread crumbs, and eggs, and mix lightly with a fork. Don't mash or the meatloaf will be dense.
Divide the mixture into 6 (10 to 11-ounce) portions and shape each portion into a small loaf on a sheet pan. Spread about a tablespoon of ketchup on the top of each portion. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the internal temperature is 155 to 160 degrees F and the meat loaves are cooked through. Serve hot.
HEALTHY GRILLED PIZZA BURGERS
This comes from David Zinczenko at TODAY. He wrote, "Topping turkey burgers with traditional pizza toppings adds loads of flavor without packing on too many calories and carbs."
Serves 4
To view this online, go to https://www.today.com/recipes/healthy-grilled-pizza-burgers-recipe-t147408.
Ingredients
1 1/4 pounds lean ground turkey
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup finely chopped red sweet pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds, crushed
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
4 slices uncured pepperoni
4 thin slices mozzarella cheese
4 sprouted whole grain buns or whole grain buns, split and toasted
1/2 cup lightly packed fresh basil leaves
3 1/2 cups jarred pizza sauce, warmed
Preparation
In a medium bowl, combine turkey, onion, sweet pepper, oregano, fennel seeds, garlic powder, salt and crushed red pepper. Shape into four 3/4-inch thick patties. Brush tops and bottoms with olive oil.
For a charcoal grill, grill patties on the rack of an uncovered grill directly over medium coals for 14-18 minutes or until no longer pink and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees, turning once halfway through grilling. (For a gas grill, preheat grill to medium. Place patties on grill rack over heat. Cover and grill as above.)
Top each patty with a pepperoni slice and then a cheese slice for the last 1-2 minutes of grilling.
To assemble, place grilled patties on bun bottoms. Top with basil, pizza sauce and bun tops.
CAJUN-STYLE MEATLOAF
This comes from Diana Rattray at The Spruce Eats. She wrote, "This Cajun-style meatloaf is packed with flavor and healthy ingredients. The loaf is made with ground beef and ground pork, making for a moist and flavorful meatloaf. The "holy trinity" of onion, bell pepper, and celery, along with Cajun seasonings give the meatloaf Louisiana flavor.
"Use ketchup or chili sauce as a topping for the meatloaf, or make a delicious homemade Creole sauce for topping and serving. Fresh or store-bought salsa is another excellent option.
"Serve meatloaf sliced with some ketchup or salsa on the side. Some sides that go well with meatloaf are boiled or mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, green beans, corn, peas, and broccoli."
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 75 minutes; Total Time: 95 minutes; Makes 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.thespruceeats.com/spicy-cajun-seasoned-meatloaf-3058296.
Ingredients
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1/4 cup onion (finely chopped)
1/4 cup red bell pepper (or green, finely chopped)
1/4 cup celery (finely chopped)
1 large egg (beaten)
1/4 cup milk
1/3 cup finely ground breadcrumbs
1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork (or more beef)
1 medium tomato (seeds removed, cored, finely chopped)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt-free Cajun seasoning
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
Optional: ketchup (or chili sauce)
Directions
Heat the oven to 350 F.
Line a rimmed baking pan with foil or spray a 9-by-5-by-3-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 2 to 3 minutes. Set aside to cool.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg with the milk; add the breadcrumbs, beef and pork, chopped tomato, Cajun seasoning, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Add the cooled vegetable mixture and blend well with your hands.
Optionally, to check a meatloaf for seasoning, take a small amount and shape it into a flat patty. Fry the patty until it is cooked through and taste it. Adjust the seasonings, as needed.
Loosely pack the meatloaf mixture into the prepared baking pan or loaf pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
If desired, spread ketchup or chili sauce over the top of the meatloaf about 10 minutes before done.
Tips
If your Cajun seasoning contains salt, increase the Cajun seasoning to 2 1/2 teaspoons and decrease the salt to 1/2 teaspoon.
To check a meatloaf for doneness, use a reliable instant-read thermometer. The minimum safe temperature for ground beef or pork is 160 F. Ground poultry must be cooked to a temperature of at least 165 F.
Instead of the classic loaf shape, bake the meatloaf mixture in muffin tins.
Bake two loaves and freeze one for a future meal.
EASY BEEF BURRITO SKILLET
This is from Old El Paso, and begins, "This tasty one pan dish is done in less than 20 minutes and dishes are done in less than 1!"
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes; Makes 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/easy-beef-burrito-skillet.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 (1 oz) package Old El Paso™ taco seasoning mix
1 cup water
1 cup chunky salsa
1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
4 (6 inch) Old El Paso™ Flour Tortillas, sliced into 1-inch strips
1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup sliced green onions
Preparation
In a large skillet, brown beef until no longer pink. Drain. Add taco seasoning, water, salsa, and beans. Cook over medium heat for 3-5 minutes or until the sauce thickens. Reduce heat to low.
Stir in the tortilla strips and then top with cheese. Remove skillet from heat and let cheese melt.
Top with sour cream in the center and sprinkle with green onions. Serve immediately.
Expert Tips
Use a mild salsa if you're making it for kids.
You can stack your tortillas and use a pizza cutter to slice them all in one easy step.
LEMON MERINGUE COOKIES
This is from Dorie Greenspan at The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Dorie wrote, "Like their inspiration, lemon meringue pie, these cookies have three elements. They’re built on simple, slice-and-bake French shortbread cookies, rich, buttery and flavored with vanilla. The shortbread base is almost classic, except that the cookies are baked in muffin tins, so they’re straight-sided and deeply golden brown. The 'filling' is lemon curd, and the topping is crunchy bits of meringue. You get crumbly, velvety and crackly, sweet and tart in every bite. These cookies were created for an imaginary friend, Chief Inspector Armand Gamache, the hero of 16 Louise Penny novels, and a man who considers lemon meringue divine."
Yield: 24 cookies; Time: 2 hours
This was featured in "A Lemon Meringue Cookie Good Enough to Be Imaginary", and can be found online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1021686-lemon-meringue-cookies.
Note: If you didn't click on the link to the featured article that this cookie recipe came from (or if you did, but didn't read the article), you really should read it. Dorie Greenspan's article is well worth the read; heck, it's worth several reads. Maybe make up a batch of these, then sit back to enjoy both cookies and the article. (Thanks for both, Dorie!)
Ingredients
For the Meringue:
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons confectioners’ sugar
1 large egg white, at room temperature
1/4 teaspoon distilled vinegar (or lemon juice)
Pinch of fine sea salt
For the Shortbread:
1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), cut into chunks and brought to room temperature, plus more for greasing the muffin tin
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
2 large egg yolks, at room temperature
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 cups plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
About 1/3 cup store-bought or homemade lemon curd
Preparation
Make the meringue: Heat oven to 250 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a small bowl, stir together both sugars.
Working with an electric mixer, beat the egg white, vinegar and salt on medium-high speed until the mixture forms soft peaks, about 3 minutes. Add the sugar mixture 1 tablespoon at a time, beating after each addition. Once the sugar is incorporated, beat 2 minutes more; you’ll have stiff, glossy, white peaks. Put the meringue on the baking sheet and spread it 1/4-inch thick. (It will cover only a small part of the sheet.)
Bake the meringue undisturbed for 35 minutes. Turn off the heat, prop open the oven door and let it dry for 1 hour. When you’re ready to use it, chop it into pieces about the size of chocolate chips. Precision doesn’t matter.
Make the shortbread: Working with a mixer (use the paddle if it’s a stand mixer), beat the butter, both sugars and the salt on medium speed for about 3 minutes, until smooth but not fluffy. On low speed, beat in the yolks, one at a time, followed by the vanilla. Add the flour in three additions, mixing on low until the dough comes together in large clumps. Turn out the dough and knead it into a ball. Cut the ball in half.
Shape each half into a 6-inch log. Wrap it and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. (You could also freeze it for up to 2 months; leave it on the counter for 1 hour before baking.)
When you’re ready to bake the cookies, heat oven to 350 degrees. Coat 1 or 2 muffin tins with butter (or nonstick baking spray).
Slice each log into 12 rounds (each 1/2-inch thick); drop one into each muffin cup. (If you don’t have enough tins, you can work in batches.)
Bake for 21 to 23 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown around the rims. Transfer the tin(s) to a rack, cool for 5 minutes, then lift the cookies out and onto racks; cool to room temperature.
Just before serving, top each cookie with lemon curd, then top with ample chunks of meringue, pressing them into the curd. The meringue will keep in a cool, dry place for a few days, and the cookies can be kept at room temperature for about 3 days. But once you top the cookies, they’re best eaten soon after.
AIR FRYER LOADED TACO FRIES
This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "While this recipe for air fryer taco fries was initially inspired by Taco Bell’s™ Nacho Fries, we got a little carried away and ended up creating something even better! Sure, these taco fries are healthier for you than the original recipe thanks to the air fryer, but they are also packed with Mexican spices and piled high with loads of delicious and savory nacho toppings. Top it all with our genius hack for amazingly simple spiced sour cream - don’t worry it’s delicious but not complicated, just add Old El Paso™ original taco seasoning to sour cream and pour it on everything. These air fryer taco fries are instant crowd-favorites, so be prepared to make this recipe a second time soon!"
Prep Time: 35 minutes; Total Time: 35 minutes; Makes 8 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/air-fryer-loaded-taco-fries.
Ingredients
1/3 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon Old El Paso™ original taco seasoning mix (from 1-oz package)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon Old El Paso™ original taco seasoning mix (from 1-oz package)
16 oz (4 cups) frozen French-fried potatoes (from 32-oz bag)
1 cup shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese (4 oz)
1/2 medium avocado, pitted, peeled and diced (1/2 cup)
1/4 cup diced tomato
2 tablespoons sliced green onions (2 green onions)
2 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro leaves
Preparation
In small bowl, mix Seasoned Sour Cream ingredients. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
In large bowl, mix oil and 1 tablespoon taco seasoning mix. Add frozen potatoes; toss to coat. Pour mixture into air fryer basket. Set to 400°F; cook 22 to 26 minutes or until crispy, shaking basket every 5 minutes.
Transfer to microwavable serving plate. Top with cheese. Microwave uncovered on High 30 to 90 seconds or until cheese melts. Top with avocado, tomato, green onions and cilantro. Serve with seasoned sour cream.
Nutrition: 1 Serving Calories 220 (Calories from Fat 130); Total Fat 14g (Saturated Fat 5g, Trans Fat 0g); Cholesterol 20mg; Sodium 170mg; Total Carbohydrate 17g (Dietary Fiber 2g, Sugars 1g); Protein 5g
% Daily Value: Vitamin A 4%; Vitamin C 6%; Calcium 10%; Iron 2%
Exchanges: 1/2 Starch, 1/2 Other Carbohydrate, 1/2 High-Fat Meat, 2 Fat
INDIVIDUAL MEAT LOAVES
This yummy recipe is from Ina Garten on the Food Network. Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 45 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes; Level: Intermediate; Yield: 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/individual-meat-loaves-recipe-1952034.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon good olive oil
3 cups chopped yellow onions (3 onions)
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1/3 cup canned chicken stock or broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 1/2 pounds ground chuck (81 percent lean)
1/2 cup plain dry bread crumbs (recommended: Progresso)
2 extra-large eggs, beaten
1/2 cup ketchup (recommended: Heinz)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Heat the olive oil in a medium saute pan. Add the onions, thyme, salt, and pepper and cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes, until the onions are translucent but not brown. Off the heat, add the Worcestershire sauce, chicken stock, and tomato paste. Allow to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine the ground chuck, onion mixture, bread crumbs, and eggs, and mix lightly with a fork. Don't mash or the meatloaf will be dense.
Divide the mixture into 6 (10 to 11-ounce) portions and shape each portion into a small loaf on a sheet pan. Spread about a tablespoon of ketchup on the top of each portion. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the internal temperature is 155 to 160 degrees F and the meat loaves are cooked through. Serve hot.
HEALTHY GRILLED PIZZA BURGERS
This comes from David Zinczenko at TODAY. He wrote, "Topping turkey burgers with traditional pizza toppings adds loads of flavor without packing on too many calories and carbs."
Serves 4
To view this online, go to https://www.today.com/recipes/healthy-grilled-pizza-burgers-recipe-t147408.
Ingredients
1 1/4 pounds lean ground turkey
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup finely chopped red sweet pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds, crushed
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
4 slices uncured pepperoni
4 thin slices mozzarella cheese
4 sprouted whole grain buns or whole grain buns, split and toasted
1/2 cup lightly packed fresh basil leaves
3 1/2 cups jarred pizza sauce, warmed
Preparation
In a medium bowl, combine turkey, onion, sweet pepper, oregano, fennel seeds, garlic powder, salt and crushed red pepper. Shape into four 3/4-inch thick patties. Brush tops and bottoms with olive oil.
For a charcoal grill, grill patties on the rack of an uncovered grill directly over medium coals for 14-18 minutes or until no longer pink and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees, turning once halfway through grilling. (For a gas grill, preheat grill to medium. Place patties on grill rack over heat. Cover and grill as above.)
Top each patty with a pepperoni slice and then a cheese slice for the last 1-2 minutes of grilling.
To assemble, place grilled patties on bun bottoms. Top with basil, pizza sauce and bun tops.
CAJUN-STYLE MEATLOAF
This comes from Diana Rattray at The Spruce Eats. She wrote, "This Cajun-style meatloaf is packed with flavor and healthy ingredients. The loaf is made with ground beef and ground pork, making for a moist and flavorful meatloaf. The "holy trinity" of onion, bell pepper, and celery, along with Cajun seasonings give the meatloaf Louisiana flavor.
"Use ketchup or chili sauce as a topping for the meatloaf, or make a delicious homemade Creole sauce for topping and serving. Fresh or store-bought salsa is another excellent option.
"Serve meatloaf sliced with some ketchup or salsa on the side. Some sides that go well with meatloaf are boiled or mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, green beans, corn, peas, and broccoli."
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 75 minutes; Total Time: 95 minutes; Makes 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.thespruceeats.com/spicy-cajun-seasoned-meatloaf-3058296.
Ingredients
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1/4 cup onion (finely chopped)
1/4 cup red bell pepper (or green, finely chopped)
1/4 cup celery (finely chopped)
1 large egg (beaten)
1/4 cup milk
1/3 cup finely ground breadcrumbs
1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork (or more beef)
1 medium tomato (seeds removed, cored, finely chopped)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt-free Cajun seasoning
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
Optional: ketchup (or chili sauce)
Directions
Heat the oven to 350 F.
Line a rimmed baking pan with foil or spray a 9-by-5-by-3-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 2 to 3 minutes. Set aside to cool.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg with the milk; add the breadcrumbs, beef and pork, chopped tomato, Cajun seasoning, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Add the cooled vegetable mixture and blend well with your hands.
Optionally, to check a meatloaf for seasoning, take a small amount and shape it into a flat patty. Fry the patty until it is cooked through and taste it. Adjust the seasonings, as needed.
Loosely pack the meatloaf mixture into the prepared baking pan or loaf pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
If desired, spread ketchup or chili sauce over the top of the meatloaf about 10 minutes before done.
Tips
If your Cajun seasoning contains salt, increase the Cajun seasoning to 2 1/2 teaspoons and decrease the salt to 1/2 teaspoon.
To check a meatloaf for doneness, use a reliable instant-read thermometer. The minimum safe temperature for ground beef or pork is 160 F. Ground poultry must be cooked to a temperature of at least 165 F.
Instead of the classic loaf shape, bake the meatloaf mixture in muffin tins.
Bake two loaves and freeze one for a future meal.
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