Blue Plate Special

So this recipe is likely the reason my husband married me. Indeed, he is sitting right here and he is nodding in complete agreement. In fact, I think I served this to him, right before I showed him a photograph of a 5 carat radiant cut diamond ring.

To me, meatloaf was never a very exciting meal. It always seemed straight out of a black-and-white 50s-era television commercial. Like I should be serving it up wearing a red checkered apron and a beehive hairstyle. While I do enjoy spending time in the kitchen, and serving family meals, I am a little more modern than that.

Plus, it always just seemed like mush – not the most aesthetically pleasing meal and I often tend to eat with my eyes first, as many of you would agree.

But, these feelings changed shortly after I stumbled across this recipe from Louisiana-famed chef, Paul Prudhomme, for Cajun meatloaf. I love spice, especially those with heat like chili powder or cayenne pepper. This has all that. And, unlike many creole dishes, this meatloaf is surprisingly light and easy to put together despite the array of ingredients and the many steps in the cooking process.

Most recently, I cut the heat level down by taking out the Tabasco and halving the cayenne pepper – so that I could also serve it to my kids. I also opt for 2 pounds of ground beef instead of using pork and think the flavor remains just as rich. Plus, with all that meat, it is the perfect freezer meal. I cut and wrap each portion individually to store.

Initially my turned up their noses, but they were pleasantly surprised by how much tastier it was than the other standbys. They even had it for lunch again the next day, and they are usually quick to disregard leftovers.Also, for those with little little ones- it is pretty soft and easy to mash if you are starting to introduce meat into your baby’s diet, just adjust the seasoning level accordingly. 

Since it is likely more involved than almost any other meatloaf that you have made, you may be wondering if its worth it.

It is…especially if you want something in return (wink).