Hearty Meatloaf Delight

This delightful meatloaf combines the rich flavors of both pork and beef, creating a succulent and satisfying dish. It's enhanced with a vibrant medley of vegetables—crunchy celery, sweet carrots, and juicy red bell peppers—each contributing to a harmonious blend of taste and nutrition. The savory mixture is bound together with eggs and softened white bread, seasoned perfectly with garlic, salt, and pepper for an aromatic experience. Served warm from the oven, this meatloaf pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or can be enjoyed in sandwiches later. With a melt-in-your-mouth texture, its wholesome ingredients make it a perfect family meal option. It's a relatively straightforward recipe, making this the ideal dish for beginners and experienced cooks alike. Every slice promises a punch of flavor, turning a simple meal into a gourmet treat. Try this recipe and relish a taste of comfort that's hard to resist!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

500 g ground pork
500 g ground beef
1 red bell pepper
1 carrot
1 onion
2 cloves of garlic
2 stalks of celery
2 pickles
2 eggs
3 slices of white bread
2 tablespoons of butter

Spices:

Salt (about 1 tablespoon)
Pepper

Preparation Time

Total: 75 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Bread and Vegetables: Soak the slices of white bread in water to soften them. While the bread is soaking, finely chop the onion, celery, and red bell pepper. Grate the carrot using a coarse grater. Mince the garlic cloves.
Mix the Meats: In a large bowl, combine the ground pork and beef. Add salt, pepper, and the minced garlic. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of seasoning.
Incorporate the Bread and Eggs: Squeeze excess water from the soaked bread and add it to the meat mixture along with the eggs. Combine until the mixture is uniform.
Cook the Vegetables: Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the grated carrot, chopped celery, bell pepper, and onion until they are slightly softened. This should take about 5 minutes.
Cool and Combine: Let the sautéed vegetables cool for a few minutes, then add them to the meat mixture. Mix well to integrate the vegetables throughout.
Finalize the Mixture: Chop the pickles into small pieces and fold them into the mixture. Ensure everything is combined evenly.
Shape and Bake: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit). Grease a loaf pan with a bit of butter. Spoon the meat mixture into the pan and smooth the top.
Cook the Meatloaf: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 60 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and the top is golden brown.
Rest Before Serving: Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Tips

Flavor Depth: Incorporate a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce for added depth.
Moisture in Meatloaf: Using day-old bread soaked in milk instead of fresh provides extra moisture.
Crispy Top: Brush the top with a little ketchup before baking for a delicious glaze.

Nutrition

Calories: Approx. 400 per serving
Protein: 25g
Fats: 22g
Carbohydrates: 15g

Variations

Vegetarian Alternative: Use lentils or a meat substitute in place of meat.
Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños for a spicy variation.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread or breadcrumbs and ensure pickles do not contain gluten.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Best served with creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad.
Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of red wine or an iced lemonade for something refreshing.
Garnish: Top with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Best Places

Meat & Livings: Known for their creative meatloaf varieties. Location: 123 Culinary Lane, New York, USA.
The Heart of Meat: Classic dishes prepared with heart. Location: 45 Flavor Street, London, UK.
Meat Haven: Offers mouth-watering gourmet meatloaf dishes. Location: 789 Gourmet Road, Sydney, Australia.
The Rustic Plate: A cozy spot for hearty meals. Location: 367 Farmhouse Dr, Toronto, Canada.
Bistro Savory: Known for its contemporary take on classics. Location: 999 Melting Pot Ave, Paris, France.
Flavor Thyme: Offers a rich blend of spices and flavors. Location: 15 Seasoning Lane, Dubai, UAE.
Meat Magic: Famous for its organic ingredients. Location: 567 Eco Palate Blvd, Cape Town, South Africa.
Café Comfort: Offers traditional and comforting dishes. Location: 88 Cozy Corner, Dublin, Ireland.
Slice of Flair: Fusion of flavors in a comforting setting. Location: 235 Tasty Boulevard, Berlin, Germany.
Meatloaf Emporium: A variety of meatloaf styles await. Location: 640 Delicious Row, Tokyo, Japan.