Spicy Meatloaf

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Spicy Meatloaf turns even meatloaf haters into meatloaf lovers. It’s made with a combination of ground beef, hot Italian sausage, and sauteed vegetables. This meatloaf is a hearty comfort food dish that makes great leftovers and freezes well, too.

A meatloaf sliced up on a wooden cutting board.

I have been making spicy meatloaf for my family for some time now (10+ years) and it’s a recipe I come back to again and again.

I have even converted it into an instant pot meatloaf recipe because I love it so much. Other dinner recipes we love are Cheeseburger Sliders, 10-minute Alfredo Sauce (over pasta), Instant Pot Italian Beef, and Crockpot Sausage and Potatoes.

If you want to serve this with a vegetable side dish, I highly recommend Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts. They are so good!

Jump to:
A plate of meatloaf and mashed potatoes in front of a whole meatloaf sliced up on a cutting board.

❤️Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish takes meatloaf to another level with the addition of hot Italian sausage and sauteed vegetables. I’ve played around with the flavor combination a lot and finally settled on ground beef, hot Italian sausage, and red pepper flakes.

The vegetables in this meatloaf are sauteed until soft and smothered in a combination of spices and Worcestershire sauce that bring an extra layer of flavor to the meatloaf.

Not only do the veggies add extra flavor and texture, but they are also a great way to sneak veggies into the diets of anyone who doesn’t typically like vegetables – whether that’s yourself or someone else in your life.

I love this meatloaf on the day it’s cooked but actually love it on the second day even more. It makes a great easy lunch as-is or an even yummier meatloaf sandwich.

If you’re looking for more meatloaf recipes, try our recipes for air fryer meatloaf and meatloaf muffins. Both are excellent.

📋Ingredients

Ingredients for meatloaf labeled and laid out on a kitchen counter.

Hot Italian Sausage: This meat is what really brings the spice to the meatloaf. Mild or Sweet Italian Sausage will not bring the same level of heat.

Red Onion: The cooked red onion adds a slightly sweet flavor to this dish.

Ketchup: This not so “secret ingredient” adds sweetness to the dish and balances out the spicy. It also acts as a glaze on top of the meatloaf and carmelizes as it cooks.

Worcestershire Sauce: Or “wash your sisters sauce” as I like to call it, adds moisture to the meatloaf and helps prevent it from drying out as it bakes.

Scroll to the bottom for the complete list of ingredient measurements and printable recipe card.

📖 Ingredient Swaps

Ketchup glaze: If you really don’t like ketchup as a glaze on your meatloaf, you could switch it for your favorite BBQ sauce. However, I don’t recommend removing it from the recipe altogether.

Breadcrumbs: The breadcrumbs can be substituted with a crumbled-up biscuit or crushed-up crackers.

Onion: The onion can be swapped out with yellow onion and cooked the same. If you don’t have fresh onions on hand, 1 tablespoon of onion powder can be added to the meatloaf mixture before it is all combined.

Ground Beef: The ground beef can be swapped out for ground pork or ground turkey if desired.

Hot Sauce: If you want to bring firey heat to your meatloaf, mix in a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce.

🔪Step-by-Step Instructions

A large skillet filled with diced green onion, red onion, carrot, and garlic.
Step 1. Combine olive oil, carrots, red onion, bell pepper, green onions, and garlic in a large skillet. Cook over medium-high heat for 5 minutes.
Cooked carrots, onions, and garlic in a large skillet.
Step 2: Cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until soft.
Cooked vegetables coated in spices, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce in a large skillet.
Step 3: Mix in 1/3 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, crushed red pepper, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and dried parsley. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
A metal bowl filled with cooked vegetables, ground beef, Italian sausage, eggs, and breadcrumbs.
Step 4: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sweet Italian sausage, eggs, breadcrumbs, cooked vegetables, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
Meatloaf ingredients mixed together in a large metal mixing bowl.
Step 5: Mix well, until fully combined.
A meatloaf shaped on top of a broiler pan.
Step 6: Shape into a loaf on top of a broiling pan.
A shaped meatloaf coated in a ketchup glaze, on top of a broiler pan.
Step 7: Brush meatloaf with remaining ketchup and bake at 350 degrees F for 1 hour.
Baked meatloaf on to of a broiler pan.
Step 8: Remove from oven and let rest 10 minutes before serving.

👩🏻‍🍳Expert Cooking Tips

Loaf Pan vs. Broiler Pan

After a lot of trial and error, I have switched from using a loaf pan to using a broiler pan (shown above) when cooking meatloaf.

The main reason is the amount of fat that drains from meatloaf while it is cooking. Loaf pans can easily fill up halfway around the edges with fat when baking a meatloaf.

I have also found that meatloaf cooked in a loaf pan tends to fall apart when served. Now, meatloaf does still sometimes fall apart, but it holds together better when being baked in the hot air on three sides as opposed to cooking in its own fat.

Can you bake your spicy meatloaf in a loaf pan? Sure. I do recommend that you remove the meatloaf from the oven after 30 minutes and drain the fat. Then, drain the remaining fat once it’s completely cooked.

💭Recipe FAQs

What can I add to meatloaf for flavor?

To enhance the flavor of your meatloaf, you can incorporate various ingredients and seasonings. Here are some flavorful additions you can consider:

Onions and garlic: Finely chopped onions and minced garlic add savory depth and aroma to your meatloaf. Sauté them before adding them to the meat mixture for a milder flavor or use them raw for a stronger taste.

Fresh herbs: Add fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, rosemary, or basil to infuse your meatloaf with aromatic flavors. Chop the herbs finely and mix them into the meat mixture for even distribution.

Worcestershire sauce: This savory and tangy sauce adds a rich umami flavor to meatloaf. A few dashes of Worcestershire sauce can significantly enhance the taste.

Mustard: Dijon mustard or your favorite mustard variety can contribute tanginess and depth to the meatloaf. Mix it into the meat mixture or use it as a glaze on top.

Ketchup or tomato sauce: Tomato-based sauces like ketchup or tomato sauce add a touch of sweetness and tang to the meatloaf. You can mix them into the meat mixture or use them as a topping.

Soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce: These sauces can add an umami kick and depth of flavor to your meatloaf. Use them sparingly, as they are potent.

Dried herbs and spices: Season your meatloaf with dried herbs and spices such as paprika, oregano, thyme, cumin, or chili powder. These can add complexity and warmth to the overall flavor.

Cheese: Incorporating shredded cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan, can add a cheesy flavor and richness to your meatloaf. Mix it into the meat mixture or layer it in the center for a pleasant surprise.

Bacon: Wrap the meatloaf with bacon strips or chop cooked bacon and mix it into the meat mixture for an additional smoky and savory taste.

Hot sauce or spices: If you enjoy spiciness, you can add a dash of hot sauce or spices like cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or chipotle powder to give your meatloaf a fiery kick.

Remember to adjust the quantities based on your taste preferences and to ensure a balance of flavors. Feel free to experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavor profile for meatloaf.

What is the secret to juicy meatloaf?

The secret to juicy meatloaf lies in a few key techniques and ingredients. Here are some tips to help you achieve a moist and flavorful meatloaf:

Use a combination of ground meats: Mixing different types of ground meats can add moisture and flavor to your meatloaf. Combining lean ground beef with fattier meats like ground pork or veal can help retain moisture during cooking.

Add moisture-rich ingredients: Incorporate ingredients that add moisture to the meatloaf. This can include items like grated onions, finely chopped vegetables (such as carrots or bell peppers), or even moist breadcrumbs soaked in milk. These ingredients not only add flavor but also help keep the meatloaf moist.

Don’t overmix the meat: When combining the ingredients, avoid overmixing the meat mixture. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture and tougher meatloaf. Gently mix the ingredients until they are just combined, ensuring that the meat retains its natural moisture.

Use a panade or binder: A panade is a mixture of liquid (such as milk, broth, or tomato sauce) and bread crumbs, oats, or crushed crackers. Adding a panade to your meatloaf mixture can help retain moisture and create a tender texture.

Don’t overcook: Be cautious not to overcook the meatloaf, as this can result in a dry texture. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches the recommended level (typically 160-165°F or 71-74°C), and then remove the meatloaf from the oven promptly.

Let it rest: Allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier final product.

Remember, these techniques are not strict rules but guidelines to help you achieve a juicy meatloaf. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavor profiles to find your own perfect combination.

Why does my meatloaf taste bland?

There could be several reasons why your meatloaf tastes bland. Here are some common factors that can contribute to a lack of flavor:

Insufficient seasoning: Meatloaf typically requires a generous amount of seasoning to enhance its flavor. Make sure you are using an appropriate amount of salt, pepper, herbs, spices, and other seasonings to add depth to the taste.

Lack of fat: Fat is important for flavor and moisture in meatloaf. If you’re using lean ground meat, such as ground turkey or chicken, the lack of fat can result in a less flavorful meatloaf. Consider using a combination of lean and fattier ground meats or adding ingredients like bacon or sausage for added richness.

An inadequate mix of ingredients: The combination of ingredients in your meatloaf plays a crucial role in its taste. Ensure that you’re using a variety of flavorful ingredients such as onions, garlic, herbs, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, ketchup, or soy sauce. These ingredients can significantly enhance the overall flavor.

Overcooking: Overcooking can cause the meat to dry out, resulting in a less flavorful and more bland meatloaf. Be mindful of the cooking time and temperature, and consider using a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked to the appropriate internal temperature without becoming overly dry.

Insufficient resting time: Allowing your meatloaf to rest for a few minutes after baking can help redistribute the juices and flavors within the meat, making it more enjoyable.

Personal preference: It’s also possible that what you perceive as bland might simply be a matter of personal taste. Experiment with different seasonings and flavors to find combinations that suit your preferences.

Do you cook meatloaf covered or not?

Meatloaf is typically cooked uncovered. Cooking it uncovered allows the heat to penetrate the meatloaf evenly and helps develop a slightly caramelized crust on the outside. This crust adds flavor and texture to the meatloaf.

However, there are some recipes or variations where meatloaf can be covered during part or all of the cooking process. Here are a few scenarios where covering the meatloaf may be recommended:

Preventing excessive browning: If you find that the top of your meatloaf is browning too quickly or becoming too dark, you can cover it with foil for a portion of the cooking time. This will slow down the browning process and allow the center of the meatloaf to cook through without overcooking the exterior.

Retaining moisture: If you’re using particularly lean ground meat or want to ensure a very moist meatloaf, you may choose to cover it with foil during the entire cooking time. This helps trap the moisture and prevents excessive evaporation.

When following a specific recipe, it’s essential to refer to the cooking instructions provided. The recipe will typically specify whether the meatloaf should be cooked covered or uncovered, and for how long. If you’re using a personal recipe or adapting a recipe, you can experiment with both methods to see which one yields the desired results in terms of flavor, texture, and moistness.

Why does my meatloaf fall apart when I cook it?

If your meatloaf falls apart during cooking, it could be due to a few reasons. Here are some common factors that can cause meatloaf to lose its shape:

Insufficient binding agents: Binding agents help hold the meatloaf together. Common binding ingredients include eggs, breadcrumbs, oats, or a panade (mixture of liquid and bread). If your meatloaf lacks enough binding agents, it may crumble or fall apart. Ensure you’re using an adequate amount of binding ingredients according to the recipe.

Overmixing the meat mixture: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can lead to a denser texture and cause the proteins in the meat to become too compact. This can result in a meatloaf that doesn’t hold together well. When combining the ingredients, mix them gently until just combined, avoiding excessive mixing.

Using lean ground meat: If you’re using lean ground meat, such as extra-lean ground beef or turkey breast, it can result in a drier and less cohesive meatloaf. Leaner meats have less fat, which can contribute to the binding and moistness of the meatloaf. Consider using a mix of lean and slightly fattier ground meats or adding ingredients like grated vegetables, moist breadcrumbs, or cheese to increase moisture and binding.

Insufficient resting time: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes after baking is important as it helps the juices redistribute and settle, making the meatloaf easier to slice and handle. If you cut into the meatloaf too soon, it may crumble or fall apart. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Inadequate cooking time: Undercooking the meatloaf can cause it to be unstable and fall apart. Make sure you’re cooking the meatloaf for the recommended time and internal temperature specified in the recipe. This ensures that the meat is fully cooked and has the appropriate texture and stability.

By addressing these factors and making adjustments accordingly, you can improve the structure and prevent your meatloaf from falling apart during cooking.

🍚Yummy Side Dish Ideas…

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A meatloaf sliced up on a wooden cutting board.

Spicy Meatloaf

Aileen Clark
Spicy Meatloaf turns even meatloaf haters into meatloaf lovers. It's made with a combination of ground beef, hot Italian sausage, and sauteed vegetables. This meatloaf is a hearty comfort food dish that makes great leftovers and freezes well, too.
5 from 2 votes
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6 people
Calories 601 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup red onion diced
  • 1/2 cup carrots diced
  • 1/4 cup green bell pepper diced
  • 4 green onions sliced
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 2/3 cup ketchup divided
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound hot italian sausage
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line the bottom of a broiling pan with foil and set aside.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the red onion, carrots, bell pepper, green onions, and garlic.
  • Cook, stirring occasionally for 5 minutes. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the carrots are soft.
  • Mix in 1/3 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, crushed red pepper, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and dried parsley. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sweet Italian sausage, eggs, breadcrumbs, cooked vegetables, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt.
  • Gently mix together the ingredients until combined.
  • Pour the mixture onto the broiling pan and shape it into a loaf. Brush the remaining 1/3 cup of ketchup over the tops and sides of the meatloaf.
  • Bake meatloaf for 1 hour.
  • Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes prior to slicing.

Notes

After a lot of trial and error, I have switched from using a loaf pan to using a broiler pan when cooking meatloaf. Primarily, because loaf pans tend to fill up with fat while the meatloaf cooks.
If using a loaf pan, carefully drain the fat from the pan 1/2 through cooking and again at the end of the cooking time.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 601kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 28gFat: 46gSaturated Fat: 16gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 22gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 166mgSodium: 1312mgPotassium: 659mgFiber: 2gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 2206IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 81mgIron: 4mg
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8 Comments

  1. Confession…I’m not a meatloaf fan. BUT, this one sounds so interesting that i need to give it a try! Thanks for sharing.