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Monster Meatloaf

Monster Meatloaf: A Fun and Spooky Family Favorite

Monster Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for Halloween gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 2 pounds Ground Beef or Venison Your choice of flavorful protein that keeps it juicy; substitute with any preferred ground meat.
  • 1 cup Italian Bread Crumbs Provides texture and binds the mixture together; can be swapped with gluten-free bread crumbs if needed.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Adds a deep, umami flavor; no direct substitute, but soy sauce could work in a pinch.
  • 1/2 cup Tomato Sauce Keeps the meatloaf moist while contributing taste; can be replaced with ketchup for a sweeter touch.
  • 1 medium Diced Onion Enhances both flavor and moisture; shallots or spring onions can be used as alternatives.
  • 1 tablespoon Creole Seasoning Gives it a delightful kick; feel free to use Cajun seasoning or your preferred spice blend.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Infuses savory depth to the mix; swap in fresh garlic for an extra punch of flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Complements the fresh onion; can be left out if you prefer to use only fresh ingredients.
For the Decor
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Adds sweetness and vibrant color to your monster; substitute with any sweet pepper variety if desired.
  • 1 jar Stuffed Olives Perfect for creating 'eyes'; can be skipped or replaced with pickles for a fun twist.
  • 1 cup Whole Kernel Corn Offers sweetness and texture; feel free to omit or replace with other canned veggies.
  • 2-3 medium Carrots Use these as 'legs' in your creation; celery sticks make a good substitute if you don’t have carrots.
  • 2 medium Mushrooms Serve as the captivating 'eyes'; can be used raw for appearance or cooked for added flavor.

Equipment

  • Loaf pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Steamer
  • Oven

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 pounds of ground meat (beef or venison) with 1 cup of Italian bread crumbs, 1/2 cup of tomato sauce, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Add 1 diced onion, 1 tablespoon of Creole seasoning, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Mix thoroughly with your hands or a spatula until all ingredients are well incorporated.
  2. Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan, pressing gently to shape it into a monster-like form. Use your hands to mold it into a rounded head with a slightly tapered body and make a shallow indentation on top for added character. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare for baking.
  3. Place the formed meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Keep an eye on the cooking process and baste the top with residual meat juices halfway through for a moist and flavorful crust. The meatloaf should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
  4. While the meatloaf is baking, wash and peel 2-3 carrots, then cut them into leg-sized pieces. Steam the carrots in a pot for about 15 minutes, or until they are tender yet still firm enough to maintain their shape. This will give them a bright color and make for fun 'legs' for your Monster Meatloaf.
  5. Slice a red bell pepper into strips, which will serve as the monster's lips. Next, cut stuffed olives into circles to create eyes. Optionally, place these olives atop two white mushrooms, which will represent the monster's eerie gaze. Setting these decorations aside will help you assemble your spooky masterpiece later.
  6. Once the Monster Meatloaf has reached the desired temperature and is beautifully baked, carefully transfer it to a serving plate. Arrange the steamed carrots as legs protruding from the loaf, positioning the mushrooms as eyes. Use the red bell pepper pieces for lips and place whole kernel corn as teeth for an extra ghoulish touch.
  7. With your Monster Meatloaf fully assembled and presented, gather your family and friends around the table. This whimsical centerpiece is bound to spark joy and laughter. Pair it with spooky sides like mashed potatoes or colored juices to complete this Halloween-themed meal and bring joy to your dining experience!

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 4mg

Notes

For best results, use fresh ingredients and consider custom decorations for a unique spin on the Monster Meatloaf.

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