My Best Meatloaf Recipe
It may seem a little strange to post My Best Meatloaf Recipe in August since it usually isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when the temperatures are in the triple digits (in the shade). However, we have this wonderful little farm in East Texas, in a galaxy far far away from the hustle and bustle of the city where we make our escape most weekends.
The weather can be quite different in what is known as “The Piney Woods of East Texas” and last weekend we woke up to a blustery 68 degrees on Saturday morning! It was quite a change from the typical Texas heat we’ve been enduring through July and into August. I threw a jacket over my pajamas and went outside to quietly drink my coffee and soak up the joy of watching our deer eat their breakfast.
Then I started thinking about something other than salad and chicken for dinner! The first thing that popped into my head was my favorite meatloaf. It hadn’t passed my lips in a long while and I absolutely love the leftovers for sandwiches. My meatloaf is a hybrid of many different recipes all rolled into one and I really do believe it’s pretty perfect.
I love the blend of beef and pork but, if you want to make it light (and I often do after the holidays), just omit the shredded pork and substitute with ground turkey sausage and wrap the meatloaf with turkey bacon. It’s still very good but not quite as flavorful as this version and I was going all the way this time around so I didn’t skimp. I also soak white bread in milk for my binding agent but again, if you want to go light just substitute with a 1/2 cup of bread crumbs instead of the bread. This recipe is simply my best meatloaf recipe, full of delicious flavor that will have you converting former “meatloaf haters” into die hard fans.
And after dinner you can always take a nice, long walk….
Enjoy a perfect meatloaf if the weather gives you a break and a delicious sandwich if you’re lucky enough to have leftovers. I am of the opinion that there is nothing better in this world than a slice of a chilled meat loaf on 2 slices of bread with a swish of mayo and a topping of lettuce. Be sure to let me know how you like it!
Josef
October 1, 2023
while searching for a different meatloaf recipe other than the standard mixed meat with a tomato base topping, I ran across yours. As soon as as I saw the wrap around bacon, I knew this was the one I had to try. I’m of the opinion that the bacon will not only enhance the flavor but perhaps help to moisten the beef. Especially since I am using the 85% lean beef. Thanl you so much Chris for this unique recipe that I will not only enjoy preparing but tasting it as well. Enjoy your day.
Josef
Ryan K
October 14, 2022
This really is a fantastic recipe! Followed it (mostly) with just a tweak and my wife/kids really loved this. Thanks for sharing. Ryan