Meatloaf for Tomato Haters Recipe

Cook Time: 60 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 cup diced green bell pepper
• cup Italian-style bread crumbs
• cup hot pepper sauce
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 (.75 ounce) packet dry brown gravy mix

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C).
2. In a large bowl, combine diced onion, green bell pepper, bread crumbs, hot pepper sauce, egg, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to incorporate all ingredients.
3. Add the ground beef to the mixture and combine until everything is evenly mixed.
4. Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan, pressing it down to form a uniform shape.
5. Sprinkle the dry brown gravy mix evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is browned on the outside and no longer pink in the center. The internal temperature should reach at least 160F (70C) when measured with an instant-read thermometer.
7. Once cooked, remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	387
Total Fat	21g
Saturated Fat	8g
Cholesterol	124mg
Sodium	789mg
Total Carbohydrate	13g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Total Sugars	3g
Protein	34g
Vitamin C	19mg
Calcium	67mg
Iron	4mg
Potassium	556mg

Recipe Overview: Brighten up your dinner table with this meatloaf made without ketchup! This tomato-free dish gets its flavor from hot sauce and a package of gravy mix.

Origin and History of Meatloaf

Meatloaf has long been a staple of American home cooking, beloved for its simplicity and ability to feed a crowd. Its roots, however, extend beyond the U.S., with versions of meatloaf appearing in Europe during the Middle Ages. The earliest forms of ground meat loaves were popularized in Germany and the Scandinavian countries, often served as a way to stretch limited meat supplies. By the early 20th century, it was firmly established as an American comfort food. The "Meatloaf for Tomato Haters" recipe offers a twist by excluding the usual tomato-based condiments, catering to those who prefer a more savory, non-tomato flavor profile.

Regional Variations of Meatloaf

While meatloaf is enjoyed worldwide, its preparation varies greatly by region. In the United States, classic recipes often feature ketchup or tomato sauce as a key ingredient. In contrast, the "Meatloaf for Tomato Haters" recipe incorporates hot sauce and brown gravy, steering clear of tomatoes altogether. This variation is particularly popular in households with members who have tomato allergies or simply dislike the taste of tomatoes. Elsewhere, in countries like the UK, meatloaf may be referred to as "meat pudding" and often uses a blend of meats such as beef and lamb, with a less spicy flavor profile.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

What sets this version of meatloaf apart from traditional recipes is its avoidance of tomatoes entirely. Most classic meatloaf recipes use ketchup or tomato paste to add moisture and flavor, often contributing a tangy sweetness. In this version, the combination of hot pepper sauce and brown gravy creates a rich and zesty flavor without the use of tomatoes. The result is a heartier, more savory meatloaf that will appeal to those who either dislike or are allergic to tomatoes.

Where is Meatloaf for Tomato Haters Typically Served?

This dish is typically served in family-oriented settings, especially in regions where meatloaf is a popular comfort food. It's ideal for a casual dinner, often accompanied by mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a side salad. Given its versatile nature, "Meatloaf for Tomato Haters" is also great for meal prep or as leftovers, with the flavor improving the next day. While it's particularly popular in North America, variations can be found in homes across the world, each adapting the recipe to suit local tastes and ingredient availability.

Fun Facts About Meatloaf

Here are a few interesting tidbits about meatloaf:

• The worlds largest meatloaf, weighing in at over 2,000 pounds, was made in 2000 as part of a promotional event in the U.S.!
• Meatloafs popularity surged in the 1950s during the post-war period when home-cooked meals became a symbol of domestic life in America.
• In some cultures, meatloaf is considered a way to use up leftovers, as it allows for the creative combination of various meats and fillers.
• In the 1970s, meatloaf gained even more cultural significance with the release of the song "Paradise by the Dashboard Light" by Meat Loaf, the famous American rock musician.

FAQ about Meatloaf for Tomato Haters Recipe

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