Southern Meatloaf is not just your everyday weeknight dinner; it’s a nostalgic dish with deep roots in American home cooking. Over the years, this hearty loaf has become a staple in Southern kitchens, known for its satisfying texture, rich flavor, and the versatility of ingredients that go into making it. In the South, meatloaf is often elevated beyond its humble origins with the addition of bold seasonings and fresh, local ingredients that turn a simple dish into a family favorite.

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Originally, meatloaf was a practical way to stretch meat, using inexpensive fillers like breadcrumbs and milk to create a hearty meal that could feed a crowd. Over time, it has evolved into a dish that allows for creativity in the kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or just a side of ketchup, Southern Meatloaf is a dish that speaks to the heart of Southern cooking, where simplicity meets bold flavors.

The recipe I’ve created for you takes inspiration from the traditional Southern meatloaf, adding layers of flavor with smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, and a touch of barbecue sauce for that extra Southern flair. The combination of ground beef and pork ensures a moist, tender meatloaf, while the pimientos and bell peppers add color and a hint of sweetness. Topped with a tangy barbecue glaze, this meatloaf is bound to become a new favorite at your dinner table.

Southern cooking is all about making the most of what you have, and this meatloaf exemplifies that. The use of everyday ingredients such as breadcrumbs, milk, and barbecue sauce creates a dish that is both flavorful and comforting. Whether you’re serving it at a casual family dinner or making it ahead for meal prep, this Southern Meatloaf delivers a hearty, satisfying meal with a touch of home-cooked tradition.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 8 Servings):  

• • Calories: 370 kcal  
  • Protein: 20g  
  • Carbohydrates: 15g  
  • Fat: 28g  
  • Sodium: 650mg  
  • Sugars: 6g

Storage Information:  

Southern Meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a microwave-safe dish or reheat in an oven at 325°F until warmed through. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then heat in the oven until hot.

Fun Fact:  

Did you know that meatloaf has European roots? Originally known as a way to utilize leftover meats, it was American cooks who truly made it famous during the Great Depression, stretching their proteins with fillers like breadcrumbs and oats. The Southern version adds its own twist with unique spices and flavors, such as Cajun seasoning and barbecue sauce, bringing a whole new depth to this classic dish.

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Southern Meatloaf Recipe  

Ingredients:  

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil  
• 1 cup Vidalia onion, finely chopped  
• 1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped  
• 4 cloves garlic, minced  
• 1 cup store-bought dry bread crumbs  
• 1/2 cup whole milk  
• 1 (4-ounce) jar diced pimientos, drained  
• 1/4 cup, plus 3/4 cup BBQ sauce, divided  
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce  
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten  
• 1 pound 80/20 ground beef  
• 1 pound ground pork  
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika  
• 1 1/4 teaspoons Cajun seasoning  
• 1/2 teaspoon salt  
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:  

1. Prepare the vegetables  

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped Vidalia onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent. Set aside to cool slightly.

2. Soak the breadcrumbs  

In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes to absorb the milk, creating a soft binder for the meatloaf.

3. Mix the ingredients  

To the soaked breadcrumbs, add the cooled sautéed vegetables, drained pimientos, 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, lightly beaten eggs, ground beef, and ground pork. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to gently mix everything together until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.

4. Shape the loaf  

Transfer the meat mixture to a lightly greased or lined baking sheet. Shape it into a loaf that’s about 9x5 inches. Press down gently to ensure the loaf is firm and even.

5. Add the glaze  

Spread 3/4 cup of BBQ sauce over the top of the meatloaf, creating a thick glaze. This will caramelize as it bakes, adding a sweet and tangy crust.

6. Bake  

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked through.

7. Rest and serve  

Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a moist and flavorful meatloaf. Slice and serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.

Southern meatloaf is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings the warmth of home-cooked Southern meals to your table. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep for the week. With its rich combination of beef, pork, and savory seasonings, this dish will soon become a staple in your recipe collection.