MEATLOAF MASTERPIECE

A little bit of history about meatloaf...

It's minced meat with a combination of ingredients formed into loaves or patties.. It is of European origin and throughout time, it's preparation has evolved.  The meat grinder revolutionized the process of mixing the meat together taking out a lot of the laborious work dating back to medieval times.  During the depression, meatloaf was a way to stretch out a meal by incorporating different ingredients such as oats, breadcrumbs, etc.  It has remained a mainstay to many of us baby boomers.  It is an adaptable main course by adding a variety of topped condiments, however, I prefer to again bring the out the culmination of ingredients used to bring this masterpiece to life and NOT covering it up!

The beauty of this is you can also use this mixture for your meatballs (excluding the Worcestershire Sauce) as well.  So you are getting a DOUBLE BONUS for today!  Again, you can stretch out the number of meals from making this recipe.  With any left overs, I suggest some individual slices for an awesome sandwich for lunch or individual slices for a quick dinner to reheat on busy days!  It freezes well.  Oh, and by the way, the perfect accompaniment would be a great cup of hot tea, especially on a cold night like tonight.  I think an Earl Grey tea is in order since it was VERY cold and BLUSTERY day on the road today... brrrr!

MEATLOAF MASTERPIECE

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

2-1/2 Lbs. Meat loaf Mix (Ground Beef, Pork and Veal)
1/2 Cup Onion, Finely chopped
1 Tbsp. Garlic Powder
1 Egg
8 Dashes of Worcestershire Sauce
1 Tbsp. Basil, Dried
2 Cups Breadcrumbs, Italian Seasoned
1/2 Cup Pecorino Reggiano Cheese, Grated

In a large mixing bowl combine all ingredients.  Mixture should not be too wet, but moist.

In a medium baking dish (no coating required), form the meatloaf into an oblong loaf and bake for 1-1/2 hours, uncovered.  Serve with mashed potatoes and peas for a good old fashioned taste of Motherly cooking.  I often times will serve with homemade macaroni and cheese (which is another recipe I will share with you some other day).

Mmmmmm!