Three-Meat Meatloaf Recipe

Cook Time: 100 minutes

Meatloaf Recipe

Original Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 eggs
• cup bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh basil
• teaspoon salt
• teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 pound ground turkey
• pound ground beef
• pound ground pork sausage
• cup condensed tomato soup
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• teaspoon Dijon mustard

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with a little oil and set aside.

Step 2: Place the chopped onion and carrots into a saucepan. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 8 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Set the vegetables and broth aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs. Stir in the bread crumbs, fresh basil, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the bread crumbs to moisten.

Step 4: Once the bread crumb mixture has moistened, lightly stir in the ground turkey, ground beef, and ground pork sausage. Then, add the cooked onions, carrots, and beef broth into the meat mixture. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan and press it down gently to make it even.

Step 6: In a separate bowl, mix together the condensed tomato soup, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hours, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked through. Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check that the center of the loaf has reached at least 160F (70C).

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 305
• Total Fat: 17g (22% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 6g (29% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 130mg (43% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 728mg (32% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 11g (4% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 26g (51% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 11mg (13% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 55mg (4% Daily Value)
• Iron: 3mg (15% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 438mg (9% Daily Value)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Three-Meat Meatloaf is a classic American comfort food known for its rich flavor and moist texture. This particular recipe stands out due to its combination of three types of meat: ground turkey, beef, and pork sausage. The dish is beloved for its versatility, as it can be served for dinner, lunch, or as a delicious sandwich the next day. But theres more to this meatloaf than just its taste. Lets dive into its origins, regional twists, and why it stands out from other meatloaf variations.

Origin and History

The history of meatloaf in America dates back to the 19th century, though the idea of minced or ground meat shaped into a loaf has been around for centuries. Meatloaf became especially popular during the Great Depression, when it served as an economical way to stretch meat and feed a family. The Three-Meat Meatloaf recipe, in particular, reflects the American tradition of incorporating a variety of meats to add flavor and texture to a meal. By blending turkey, beef, and pork sausage, this variation takes a classic dish and elevates it to something both comforting and delicious.

Regional Variations and Adaptations

While the basic concept of meatloaf is universal across the United States, different regions have put their own spin on the dish. For instance, in the South, meatloaf may be made with a generous amount of ketchup or BBQ sauce, giving it a tangy kick. In the Midwest, its common to use a mixture of beef and pork, similar to this recipe, but with the addition of ingredients like bell peppers or cheese. The Three-Meat Meatloaf recipe adds a unique twist by incorporating turkey, which lightens the dish while keeping it hearty and flavorful. Additionally, the balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard topping gives it a gourmet flair, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

What Makes It Different from Other Meatloafs

Unlike traditional meatloaf recipes that often rely on a single meat, the Three-Meat Meatloaf is distinguished by its blend of three meats. The ground turkey adds a lighter texture, the beef gives it richness, and the pork sausage brings in a savory depth of flavor. This combination of meats creates a moist, tender loaf that is full of flavor without being greasy. Other meatloaf recipes might include breadcrumbs or oats to help bind the mixture, but the addition of cooked carrots and onions in this recipe adds an extra layer of flavor, as well as moisture, to ensure the meatloaf stays juicy throughout the cooking process.

Where It's Typically Served

This dish is often served in the home as a hearty family meal. It's perfect for a cozy dinner with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. Meatloaf is also commonly served as leftovers, especially in the form of sandwiches the next day. This makes it a practical meal for busy families or anyone looking for an easy yet satisfying dinner. The Three-Meat Meatloaf can also be found in diners or casual eateries that specialize in comfort food, especially those focusing on American classics.

Interesting Facts About Meatloaf

• The name "meatloaf" originates from the German dish "Hackbraten," a ground meat loaf that has been enjoyed in Europe for centuries.
• Meatloaf was a staple during the Great Depression due to its cost-effectiveness and ability to feed a large number of people with relatively inexpensive ingredients.
• The addition of a topping, like the balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard sauce used in this recipe, is a modern variation that enhances the flavor and presentation of the dish.
• In some regions, especially in the Southern U.S., meatloaf is served with gravy, while in other parts of the country, it's often topped with ketchup or barbecue sauce.

Conclusion

The Three-Meat Meatloaf is a testament to the versatility and adaptability of classic comfort foods. Whether you're preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this recipe provides a rich and flavorful twist on a beloved dish. With its blend of turkey, beef, and pork sausage, it stands out from other meatloaf recipes and offers a unique combination of flavors and textures that will surely satisfy anyone at the table.

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