Southwestern Meatloaf

Southwestern Meatloaf Recipe | USA | Ingredients: Beef, Pork, Black Olives, Cornmeal, Eggs, Onion, Garlic, Chili Powder, Oregano, Salt, Hot Pepper

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Southwestern Meatloaf is a delicious and flavorful twist on the classic meatloaf recipe. Packed with lean ground beef, ground pork, black olives, jalapenos, and spices, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

The origins of Southwestern Meatloaf can be traced back to the American Southwest, where the flavors of Mexican and American cuisine blend together to create a unique and tasty dish. This recipe has been passed down through generations and continues to be a popular choice for those looking for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) lean ground beef
1 lb (454 g) ground pork
0.75 cup pitted black olives, coarsely chopped
0.5 cup yellow cornmeal
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 medium onion, chopped
0.25 cup pickled sliced jalapenos, chopped
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 tsp best quality chili powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
0.25 cup hot pepper jelly, medium or hot

How to prepare

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C)

2. Combine all ingredients, except for jelly, in a large bowl. Mix well using your hands.

3. Pack the mixture into a greased 9x5x3 inch loaf pan and spread a couple of tablespoons of hot pepper jelly on top.
4. Bake for 1.25 hours or until cooked through.
5. Brush the remaining jelly onto the meatloaf while it's baking to glaze it.

Variations

Add a can of diced tomatoes for a juicier meatloaf.
Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version of this dish.
Mix in some shredded cheese for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to mix the ingredients well to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the meatloaf.

- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, as overcooking can result in a dry meatloaf.

- Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat moist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Southwestern Meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Bake the meatloaf in a loaf pan to ensure that it retains its shape and cooks evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use ground chicken instead of ground pork for a leaner option.

- Swap out the black olives for green olives for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the meatloaf with fresh cilantro and sliced jalapenos for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Southwestern Meatloaf with a side of Mexican rice and a cold beer for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Southwestern Meatloaf contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Southwestern Meatloaf contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Southwestern Meatloaf contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Southwestern Meatloaf contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Southwestern Meatloaf is a good source of iron, vitamin B12, and zinc.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and may contain traces of nuts.

Summary

Southwestern Meatloaf is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for dinner.

Summary

Southwestern Meatloaf is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner or gathering with friends. Packed with protein and nutrients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Southwestern Meatloaf. It was a hot summer day in the small town of Santa Fe, New Mexico. I was visiting a local farmers market, browsing through the colorful stalls filled with fresh produce and homemade goods.

As I made my way through the market, a delicious aroma caught my attention. I followed my nose until I came upon a small stand where an elderly woman was selling all sorts of homemade dishes. One particular dish stood out to me - a mouthwatering Southwestern Meatloaf. The woman noticed my interest and offered me a sample.

I took a bite and was immediately blown away by the flavors that danced on my taste buds. The meatloaf was perfectly seasoned with a hint of spice, and the addition of corn and black beans gave it a unique twist that I had never tasted before. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish myself.

I struck up a conversation with the woman, who introduced herself as Maria. She explained that the recipe had been passed down through her family for generations, originating from her great-grandmother who hailed from the Southwest region of the United States. Maria graciously shared the recipe with me, along with some tips and tricks to ensure the meatloaf turned out just right.

Excited to try my hand at making the Southwestern Meatloaf, I rushed back to my kitchen and gathered all the necessary ingredients. I carefully followed Maria's instructions, mixing the ground beef with onions, peppers, garlic, and a blend of spices that would give the meatloaf its signature flavor. I added in the corn and black beans, just as Maria had instructed, and shaped the mixture into a loaf before popping it into the oven to bake.

As the meatloaf cooked, the aromas that wafted through my kitchen were reminiscent of the farmers market in Santa Fe. I couldn't wait to taste the finished product. When the timer finally chimed, I pulled the meatloaf out of the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing into it.

The first bite transported me back to that sunny day at the farmers market. The meatloaf was tender and juicy, with a perfect balance of flavors that made my taste buds sing. I knew I had hit the jackpot with this recipe, and I couldn't wait to share it with my family and friends.

Over the years, the Southwestern Meatloaf became a staple in my kitchen. It was a dish that never failed to impress, whether I was cooking for a crowd or just whipping up a cozy meal for myself. I continued to perfect the recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit my own taste preferences.

As time passed, I shared the recipe with my own children, who grew to love the Southwestern Meatloaf just as much as I did. It became a beloved family favorite, a dish that brought us together around the dinner table and created lasting memories that we would cherish for years to come.

To this day, whenever I make the Southwestern Meatloaf, I am reminded of that fateful day in Santa Fe when I first discovered the recipe. I am grateful to Maria for sharing her family's culinary treasure with me, and I am proud to carry on the tradition by passing it down to future generations. This recipe will always hold a special place in my heart, a testament to the power of food to bring people together and create lasting connections that transcend time and distance.