A New Twist on an Old Favorite - Meatloaf

You will probably find the occasional meatloaf on most frugal menu plans. Ground meat is usually among the cheapest options for meat, and meatloaf stretches it even further by adding fillers like bread or crackers.

For many of us meatloaf is also a comfort food from our childhood. Meatloaf served with mashed potatoes, and corn is a traditional family favorite. We may enjoy meatloaf, but like any tried and true frugal favorite, sometimes we need to change it up a bit to prevent boredom in our meals. First start with a basic recipe:

Basic Meatloaf
2 pounds ground meat (use all beef, or mix it up by using 1/2 beef and 1/2 turkey or even 1 1/2 lbs beef and 1/2 lbs sausage.)
1 C filler (use torn bread heals, cracker crumbs or even oatmeal)
1 egg
1/2 C ketchup
1/2 C milk (or broth)
1 onion chopped fine
1/2 tsp salt, pepper, and garlic powder
Mix all together, put in a loaf pan, and bake at 350 for one hour.

After you have a basic recipe, you can vary the meatloaf by changing a few ingredients. Add garlic, Italian spices, and use tomato sauce instead of ketchup for an Italian tasting meatloaf. Using barbecue sauce instead of ketchup also is a nice way to change up the taste. You can even use cornmeal as your filler, add a can of corn, and some chili powder to make a tamale like loaf. You may need to adjust your liquid or filler amounts slightly to get a mixture that will hold together. Vary your side dishes to match the meatloaf you are serving.

I've tried lots of different ways to change up the basic meatloaf, but one that is new to me is Coffee Meatloaf Sauce. I found this recipe while browsing around last week. We tried it out earlier this week. It gives the meatloaf a completely new taste, and it was a hit with the whole family. While you are at that site you may want to check out the article; Easy and Frugal Dinner Party Recipes, the writing may seem familiar to you.

Meatloaf has earned its place as a favorite for a reason. It is easy, delicious and inexpensive, but even favorites sometimes can benefit from a little changing up. Changing it up helps to keep it interesting while remaining frugal, with out much effort from you. Everybody is happy!



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