Creole Meatloaf Recipe
Savor bold flavors with this meatloaf recipe Creole! Juicy, spiced to perfection, and topped with a tangy glaze—comfort food with a Southern twist!
Ingredients
Meatloaf Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef or a mix of beef and ground turkey for a lighter option
- ½ cup breadcrumbs panko or regular – helps bind everything together
- 2 large eggs – essential for moisture and structure
- ½ cup finely chopped onion – adds flavor and a hint of sweetness
- ½ cup chopped bell pepper red or green – for that classic Creole touch
- 2 cloves garlic minced – because garlic makes everything better
- 2 teaspoons Creole seasoning – the key to bold smoky flavor
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – enhances the depth of the spices
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional – adds a kick of heat
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – deepens the umami flavor
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – adds a subtle tangy kick
- ½ cup milk – keeps the meatloaf incredibly moist
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Creole Sauce for Topping:
- ½ cup ketchup – a classic meatloaf topping base
- 2 tablespoons Creole mustard – for an extra burst of zesty flavor
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce optional – for those who love heat
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar – balances out the spice with a hint of sweetness
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – enhances the overall depth of flavor
Ingredient Tips & Substitutions:
- No breadcrumbs? Use crushed crackers or oats as an alternative.
- Prefer it milder? Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and hot sauce.
- Want an extra smoky touch? Add a splash of liquid smoke to the meat mixture.
- Need a gluten-free option? Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour or a gluten-free substitute.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, Creole mustard, hot sauce, brown sugar, and garlic powder to create the tangy Creole sauce. Set it aside.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic.
- Sprinkle in the Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour in the milk to keep the meatloaf moist and tender.
- Using clean hands or a wooden spoon, gently mix until everything is evenly incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
- Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, shaping it into an even loaf.
- Spread half of the Creole sauce evenly over the top. This will create a flavorful glaze as it bakes.
- Place the pan in the oven and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Step 4: Add the Final Glaze
- About 10 minutes before the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and brush the remaining Creole sauce on top.
- Return to the oven and bake for the final 10 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize beautifully.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Once fully cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps lock in the juices and ensures each slice stays moist.
- Slice and serve warm with your favorite Southern sides like mashed potatoes, cornbread, or Cajun rice.
Pro Tip:
- For an extra smoky touch, try broiling the meatloaf for the last 2-3 minutes to slightly crisp up the glaze. This adds a delicious depth of flavor!
- Now, get ready to savor a rich, Creole-style meatloaf that’s packed with spice, heat, and mouthwatering goodness!
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 640mg
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 8g