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Writer's pictureChefIrvin

"The Tasty Twist, a Meatloaf Melody"

Updated: Feb 25

Explore the enchanting recipe awaiting you below.


Today, behold the star of our menu: Meatloaf, accompanied by a selection of two sides, all in aid of the noble cause of Wednesdays Angels!


12 Delicious meatloaf slices just waiting to be taken home to enjoy for dinner!
Meatloaf it's all yours!


Why did the chicken cross the road? To get to the other side of the meatloaf! 🍗🍞🤣

Chef Talk!


Meatloaf, a classic comfort food, offers several health benefits when prepared with the right ingredients. Lean ground meat, such as turkey or lean beef, can be used to reduce saturated fat content. Protein is a key component of meatloaf, aiding in muscle repair and growth. Additionally, vegetables like onions, garlic, and carrots can be incorporated into the recipe to boost the fiber and nutrient content.


To further enhance the health benefits of meatloaf, consider using whole grains like oats or whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of white breadcrumbs. These provide complex carbohydrates and fiber, aiding in digestion and keeping you feeling full longer. By baking meatloaf instead of frying it, you can reduce the overall calorie and fat content. Opting for a tomato-based sauce instead of a cream-based one can also lower the saturated fat content. Enjoying meatloaf in moderation as part of a balanced diet can be a delicious and nutritious choice.


Nana's Love!


Meatloaf, that humble yet comforting dish, is like a warm hug from your grandma after a long day. It’s the culinary equivalent of a cozy blanket on a chilly evening.


  1. The All-American Classic:

  • Imagine a loaf-shaped creation made with ground meat (usually beef, but sometimes lamb, pork, veal, or even a mix of meats).

  • It’s like a savory cake, baked to perfection and served in thick slices.

  • The epitome of comfort food, it evokes memories of family dinners and Sunday suppers.

  1. The Versatility:

  • Meatloaf is a canvas waiting for your culinary creativity.

  • You can jazz it up with herbs, spices, and other flavorful ingredients.

  • Want a hint of smokiness? Add some bacon.

  • Craving Italian vibes? Throw in some garlic, oregano, and Parmesan cheese.

  1. The Surprise Factor:

  • Some meatloaves are like culinary treasure chests.

  • Picture this: You slice into the loaf, and out pops a gooey center of melted cheese or hard-boiled eggs.

  • It’s like unwrapping a delicious gift—surprise, it’s cheesy goodness!

  1. The Sauce Drama:

  • Ah, the sauce! The crowning glory.

  • Traditional ketchup glaze? Sure, it’s like the meatloaf’s favorite red carpet gown.

  • But wait! How about a tangy barbecue sauce drizzle? Or a spicy Sriracha kick?

  • The sauce can make or break the meatloaf experience.

  1. The Leftovers Magic:

  • Meatloaf is the gift that keeps on giving.

  • Slice it up, reheat it, and you’ve got sandwiches, tacos, or even breakfast hash.

  • It’s the chameleon of leftovers—transforms effortlessly into new meals.

  1. The Nostalgia Trip:

  • Close your eyes and take a bite. Suddenly, you’re back in your childhood kitchen.

  • Your mom’s meatloaf recipe, passed down through generations.

  • It’s not just food; it’s a time machine to simpler days.

So there you have it—a fun little ode to meatloaf. Whether it’s a classic recipe or a quirky twist, meatloaf warms our hearts and fills our bellies. Bon appétit! 🥧🍅🍞


Ever wonder where meatloaf came from!


Meatloaf is a classic comfort food dish that has been enjoyed for generations. Its origins can be traced back to ancient Roman cookery, where a mixture of ground meat, grains, and spices was formed into a loaf shape. Over time, variations of meatloaf became popular in different cultures around the world.


In the United States, meatloaf gained popularity during the Great Depression as a way to stretch a small amount of meat into a satisfying meal. It became a staple in American households during the mid-20th century and has remained a beloved dish ever since.


Today, meatloaf recipes vary widely, with different regions and families adding their own unique twists and flavors. Whether served with gravy, ketchup, or a tangy glaze, meatloaf continues to be a versatile and comforting meal option for many people.



"Sip & Savor Chronicles"


Pairing meatloaf with wine can be a delicious experience if done right. Meatloaf is a hearty dish with rich flavors, so it pairs well with medium to full-bodied red wines.


  1. A classic pairing for meatloaf is a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, which complement the beefy flavors of the dish. The tannins in these red wines help cut through the richness of the meatloaf and enhance its savory taste.

  2. If you prefer white wine, you can also pair meatloaf with a Chardonnay or a White Rioja. These white wines have enough body and flavor to stand up to the bold flavors of the meatloaf without overpowering them.


Ultimately, the best wine pairing for meatloaf comes down to personal preference, so feel free to experiment with different wines to find the perfect match for your taste buds. Cheers to a delightful dining experience!


Lend-A-Hand Recipes 🌟🍲 Recipes by Chef Irvin


"The Tasty Twist, a Meatloaf Melody"



get all your ingredients in one place to make a delicious meatloaf.
Mise En Place for the Meatloaf


Meatloaf Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds Ground Beef

  • 1 Medium Onion, finely chopped

  • 1 Carrot, finely chopped

  • 2 Celery Stalks, finely chopped

  • 2 Large Eggs

  • 3 Garlic Cloves, minced

  • 3 tablespoons Ketchup

  • 3 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, finely chopped

  • ¾ cup Panko Breadcrumbs

  • ⅓ cup Milk

  • 1 ½ teaspoons Salt (adjust to taste)

  • 1 ½ teaspoons Italian Seasoning

  • ½ teaspoon Black Pepper, ground

  • ½ teaspoon Ground Paprika

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce

  • 1 packet Onion Soup Mix


Meatloaf Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a loaf pan with cooking spray.

  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, carrot, celery, eggs, minced garlic, ketchup, parsley, Panko breadcrumbs, milk, salt, Italian seasoning, black pepper, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and onion soup mix. Mix everything together until well combined very gently. (You're just trying to fold everything together)

  3. Transfer the meatloaf mixture into the greased loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf shape or the pan of your choice.

  4. Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until it is cooked through, remove from oven glaze and return to oven set on broil and broil for five to ten minutes to finish meatloaf.

  5. Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

  6. Enjoy your delicious Meatloaf, perfect for a comforting meal with your loved ones!



get all your ingredients together to make the glaze for your meatloaf.
Mise En Place to make your Meatloaf Glaze

For the Glaze Ingredients:

  • ¾ cup Ketchup

  • 1 ½ teaspoons Balsamic Vinegar

  • 2 ½ tablespoons Brown Sugar

  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder

  • ½ teaspoon Onion Powder

  • ¼ teaspoon Salt


Directions for the Glaze:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. In a medium bowl, combine ¾ cup of ketchup, 1 ½ teaspoons of balsamic vinegar, 2 ½ tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

  3. Once the meatloaf has been in the oven for about 45 minutes, carefully remove it and generously brush the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.

  4. Return the meatloaf to the oven and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (71°C) and the glaze is carmelized!

  5. Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious Meatloaf created by Chef Irvin!




Pro Tip:

When it comes to cooking meatloaf, one pro tip to keep in mind is to not overmix the ingredients. When you overmix the meatloaf mixture, the meat can become tough and dense after baking. To ensure a tender and juicy meatloaf, gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Another tip is to let the meatloaf rest for about 10-15 minutes after it comes out of the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf more flavorful and easier to slice. Lastly, consider adding a pan of water to the oven while baking the meatloaf to help keep it moist and prevent it from drying out. By following these tips, you can elevate your meatloaf game and impress your family and friends at the dinner table!


Helping homeless pets and their people in Dallas, TX.

Rescue Markets is a culinary initiative sponsored by Pet Sitters Care a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization located in Carrolton, TX.

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Feb 25
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Join us in our mission to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Our non-profit organization, Pet Sitters Care, is dedicated to providing assistance to individuals and families in need. We also provide support for their beloved furry companions, ensuring that everyone gets the help they need. 

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