Easy Cajun meatloaf recipe
This easy Cajun meatloaf recipe adds bold flavor to a classic dish. Perfectly spiced, tender, and delicious—your new favorite comfort food
Equipment
- 1 lb Ground Beef (or Pork) You can use a mix of ground beef and pork for richer flavor.
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs Use seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor or plain for mild taste.
- 1/2 cup Milk Use any milk of your choice, such as whole or low-fat.
- 1 Egg Large egg to bind the ingredients together.
- 1 Onion Finely chopped for even distribution of flavor.
- 1 Bell Pepper Red or green pepper, finely chopped for texture and color.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or a blend of beef and pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs preferably seasoned
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper finely chopped (red or green)
- 1 celery stalk chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning adjust based on your spice preference
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp hot sauce optional for extra heat
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the vegetables: Finely chop the onion, bell pepper, and celery. In a skillet, sauté them with a little oil over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, or until softened. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Mix the meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or beef and pork blend), breadcrumbs, milk, egg, sautéed vegetables, minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Form the meatloaf: Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish or on a lined baking sheet.
- Prepare the glaze (optional): In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar. Brush this glaze over the top of the meatloaf for added flavor and a glossy finish.
- Bake the meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Rest and slice: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender, juicy meatloaf.
Notes
- Customize the spice level 🌶️: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning or hot sauce depending on how spicy you like your meatloaf! For a milder version, reduce the Cajun seasoning and omit the hot sauce.
- Meat options 🐄🍗: Feel free to substitute ground turkey or a combination of pork and beef for a lighter or richer flavor.
- Make-ahead option ⏳: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight to save time.
- Add cheese 🧀: For a cheesy twist, try mixing in some shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack into the meat mixture.
- Freezer-friendly ❄️: This meatloaf freezes well! Simply wrap the uncooked loaf in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Leftovers 🍽️: Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.