Made by You Monday -- Manic Meatloaf

Autumn is in the air at our house. I’ve been pulling out autumn decorations and even had my toes painted a fall-ish color. For lunch yesterday we had the quintessential autumn Sunday dinner – meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and green beans.

For years I wasn’t a meatloaf fan. I just never liked it. Part of it was a texture thing. It always seemed mushy to me. Part of it was flavor. Meatloaf tended to taste like a big hamburger which made it kind of blah. But a few years ago I found this recipe (another one of Leanne Ely’s – I promise I’m not getting a commission from her!).

Manic Meatloaf

Serves 8-12

1 onion, chopped

1 carrot chopped

½ bell pepper, chopped

2 cloves garlic, pressed

2 teaspoons cumin

1 teaspoon nutmeg

½ teaspoon pepper

½ cup ketchup

2 eggs

½ cup buttermilk

1 cup oatmeal (not instant)

2 pounds ground beef, extra lean (or a blend of turkey and beef)

1 cup seasoned bread crumbs

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Saute veggies in a little olive oil.

Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Salt and pepper liberally. Shape like the Goodyear blimp in a baking dish, and bake for 45 minutes. Let stand for 10 minutes. Slice and serve. (This recipe may be halved and also freezes well).

from Healthy Foods by Leanne Ely

Happy Eating!

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