Howdy, folks! I’m thrilled to share my take on a classic comfort dish with a fun twist: Cowboy Meatloaf! This isn’t your grandma’s meatloaf (though I love hers too!). This recipe is packed with flavor, hearty ingredients, and a touch of smokiness that’ll make you feel like you’re sitting around a campfire under the stars.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of beef, pork, BBQ sauce, and spices creates a savory, slightly sweet, and smoky flavor that’s irresistible2.
- Hearty and Filling: With the addition of beans and cheese, this meatloaf is a complete meal that will keep you full and satisfied2.
- Versatile: This recipe is easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and flavors2.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to impress2.
- Nostalgic: Meatloaf is a classic for a reason and brings back childhood memories. This cowboy version will become a new family favorite.
Quick Facts
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Serving size: 6-8
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil2
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced2
- 1 green bell pepper, finely diced2
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced2
- 2 pounds ground beef2
- 1 pound ground pork2
- 2 large eggs, beaten2
- 1 cup (240 g) canned pinto beans, drained, rinsed2
- ½ cup (108 g) plain breadcrumbs2
- 1 cup (280 g) BBQ sauce, divided2
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce2
- 2 teaspoons chili powder2
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt2
- ½ teaspoon cayenne2
- ½ teaspoon black pepper2
- 1 cup (113 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded2
How to Make Cowboy Meatloaf: Step-by-Step
- Get Started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a large loaf pan (6 ½ x 10 inches) or a similar-sized pan2.
- Sauté the Veggies: Heat vegetable oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 4-5 minutes2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and let cool slightly2.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooled vegetables, ground beef, ground pork, eggs, pinto beans, breadcrumbs, ½ cup of the BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, salt, cayenne, and black pepper2. Mix gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender2.
- Add Cheese: Press half of the meat mixture into the loaf pan, creating an even layer. Make a shallow indentation in the center using the back of a spoon2. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly within the indentation2. Top with the remaining meat mixture, pressing gently to seal the cheese inside. Form into a loaf2.
- Bake: Brush ¼ cup of the remaining BBQ sauce over the top of the meatloaf, saving the rest for later2. Bake for 40 minutes. Take it out and brush with the remaining BBQ sauce2.
- Final Bake: Put the meatloaf back in the oven and bake for another 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer2.
- Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving2.
Serving Suggestions
- Mashed potatoes and gravy: A classic pairing that never fails5.
- Roasted vegetables: For a healthier side, try roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.
- Corn on the cob: A simple and delicious side that complements the smoky flavor of the meatloaf.
- Coleslaw: The cool and creamy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meatloaf.
- Mac and cheese: A comforting and satisfying side that’s always a hit with kids and adults alike.
Tips for Customization
- Spice it up: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a spicy kick1.
- Add different beans: Try black beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas instead of pinto beans2.
- Cheese variations: Use Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or mozzarella instead of cheddar cheese2.
- Veggies: Add diced carrots, celery, or mushrooms to the meat mixture for added nutrients and flavor1.
- Smoked meatloaf: For a smoky flavor, cook the meatloaf in a smoker at 250 degrees Fahrenheit until it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit5.
FAQs
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Can I freeze the meatloaf? Absolutely! Bake it first, let it cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- How do I keep the meatloaf from drying out? Avoid overmixing the meat mixture, and be sure to bake it at the correct temperature. Adding a little extra BBQ sauce to the mixture can also help keep it moist.
- Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork? Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Nutritional Information
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbohydrates: 20-30g
