Central Texas Meatloaf Recipe: A Family Favorite
A Twist on Traditional Meatloaf
Growing up in Central Texas, I was spoiled by my family’s unique meatloaf recipe that deviated from the traditional ketchup-based, sugary versions. Our secret ingredient? Saltines instead of bread! This clever substitution yields a moist, flavorful meatloaf that’s anything but gummy or mushy.
The Perfect Blend of Flavors
This easy-to-make recipe serves four to six people and takes about an hour to prepare, with only 15 minutes of active cooking time. The key to its success lies in the harmonious balance of flavors:
- 1 pound of premium ground beef (10% fat or less)
- 1 egg
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can of Hunt’s tomato sauce (reserve 1/3 to 1/2 for topping)
- 1-1/2 tablespoons of mustard (Dijon or French’s work well)
- 2 teaspoons of Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce
- 10-15 saltines, crumbled finely
- Garlic salt or powder to taste
- 2-3 bacon strips
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mixing it Up
To prepare the meatloaf, beat the egg and mix it with all the liquid ingredients. Add the seasonings and reserve a portion of the tomato sauce for later. Combine the mixture with the ground beef and crumbled saltines, being careful not to overmix. Shape the mixture into an oiled baking dish, making sure it doesn’t touch the sides.
Adding the Finishing Touches
Top the meatloaf with the reserved tomato sauce, crispy bacon strips, and thin slices of bell pepper. Bake at 350-375°F for 35-45 minutes, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 170°F.
Tips and Variations
- Partially tent the meatloaf with foil during cooking to prevent drying out or burning.
- Substitute Rotel tomatoes for tomato sauce, if desired.
- Don’t overdo it on the tomato sauce or crackers, as this can make the meatloaf too dense.
- Get creative with your mixing technique – use a meat tenderizer or your fist to crush those saltines!
This Central Texas meatloaf recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to shake up their traditional meatloaf game. Give it a try and experience the delightful combination of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more!
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