Build-Your-Own Meatloaf Recipe - Includes My Spicy-Kicked Sauce

Meatloaf happens to be one of the easiest, most delicious and economical recipes today. Start with really fresh ground beef, then kick it up a notch or two with a few flavorful ingredients like onion and garlic.

A slice or two of sauced meatloaf, complimented with sides of homemade mashed potatoes and steamed veggies is my idea of comfort food on a plate.

Each and every time I make meatloaf it's different. Not because I don't have a recipe, the basic recipe is in my head. The differences come in while building and creating the meatloaf with the in-my-head-recipe along with other ingredients in the pantry. Needless to say...meatloaf is rarely boring in our house.

My Basic Recipe

• 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 cup old-fashioned or quick oats
• 1 fresh egg

Toss all in a large bowl and mix well.

Build-Your-Own Ingredient Ideas

Stir into the meat mixture. Amounts are dependent on your taste, although I have offered guidelines.

• Minced sweet onions (1/2 cup)
• Coarsely chopped red, yellow or green bell pepper (1/4 to 1/2 cup)
• Finely minced garlic or sprinkle in garlic powder (3 to 4 small cloves)
• Fresh or dried herbs, such as rosemary, basil, thyme, oregano, parsley, and or cilantro. (Good rule of thumb; use more if you are using fresh herbs)
• Spice it up with red pepper chili flakes or cayenne pepper and your favorite salt or no-salt seasoning, such as Mrs. Dash or Old Bay Seasoning.

Baking Times - Oven set to 350°F

• Muffins - 20 to 30 minutes
• Mini-Loaves - 35 to 45 minutes
• Full Loaf - 50 to 60 minutes

Once baked to golden brown let the meatloaf rest, prior to slicing, for 10 to 15 minutes. This will give you time to prep your sides and get the table set.

Easily Freeze Baked Meatloaf

Place any leftovers in freezer bags or containers for a quick and easy mid-week meal. If you don't think you will have any leftovers I suggest doubling the recipe, which saves you tons of time and effort in the kitchen.

My Spicy-Kicked Meatloaf Sauce

This is an original recipe from my mom that I have adapted over time to my family's taste - we like it spicy. If you end up liking this sauce as much as my husband does I'd suggest doubling the recipe in order to have enough for leftovers.

Ingredients

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon prepared yellow mustard (the kind you put on a hot dog :)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar; packed
• 2 to 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

Add all ingredients into a small mixing bowl, stir well. Serve on top of meatloaf or on the side in a small sauce cup.

Mix and Match Side Dish Combos

• Steamed veggies, such as carrots, asparagus, green beans, brussels sprouts, or broccoli.
• Sautéed mushrooms and onions, season with salt and freshly ground pepper.
• Fresh green salad with a balsamic vinaigrette or your favorite dressing.
• Baked winter squash (acorn, butternut, etc.) or pan-fried summer squash (zucchini, pattypan, etc).
• Creamed peas and carrots or corn.
• Mashed potatoes (sweet, red, russet, yukon gold, etc) on the side or piped on top.

And the best of all - meatloaf sandwiches on day two. Toast a couple slices of sour dough bread, spread one slice with mayo, the other with my sauce recipe or one of your own favorites. Pile on warmed slices of meatloaf, bread and butter pickles, eat and enjoy! Guaranteed tasty!