Frequently Asked Questions
What is Poohrona's Savory Texas Beef Loaf?
It is a hearty meatloaf dish made with lean ground chuck, fresh vegetables, and a savory tomato-based glaze.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 6 people.
What temperature should I preheat my oven to?
Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) before baking the meatloaf.
What type of beef is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 lbs of lean ground chuck.
Which vegetables are included in the meatloaf mixture?
The loaf includes chopped onions, bell peppers, and fresh parsley.
What kind of breadcrumbs should I use?
You should use 1/2 cup of Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for the best flavor.
How many eggs are required for the binding?
The recipe requires 2 eggs to help bind the meat mixture together.
Is the fresh parsley mandatory?
No, the 3 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley are optional.
How much tomato sauce is used in the meat mixture?
Add 1/4 cup of tomato sauce directly into the meat mixture.
How much ketchup is added to the meatloaf itself?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of ketchup to be mixed into the beef.
How do I prepare the sauce for the top of the meatloaf?
Stir together the remaining tomato sauce, ketchup, onion, bell pepper, and spices in a saucepan and bring to a boil for 5 minutes.
What size can of tomato sauce is needed?
You will need one 15-ounce can of tomato sauce in total.
How much total ketchup is used in the entire recipe?
The recipe uses a total of 3/4 cup of ketchup, split between the meat and the sauce.
What seasonings are used in the sauce?
The sauce is seasoned with sea salt, black pepper, celery seed, and garlic powder.
How long does the meatloaf need to bake?
Bake the meatloaf for 1 1/2 hours.
What internal temperature should the meatloaf reach?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160ยฐF (70ยฐC).
Should I cover the meatloaf while it is in the oven?
Yes, cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil before placing it in the oven.
Do I need to let the meatloaf rest after cooking?
Yes, let it rest covered loosely with foil after removing it from the oven to allow the flavors to meld.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
The recipe specifically calls for 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder.
What is the purpose of the celery seed?
Celery seed adds a subtle, savory aromatic depth to the tomato sauce glaze.
How much total sea salt is needed?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of sea salt total, divided between the meat and the sauce.
How much black pepper is used?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper total.
What are some recommended sides for this dish?
It pairs well with mashed potatoes or a fresh side salad.
Is it important to boil the sauce for exactly 5 minutes?
Boiling for 5 minutes ensures the onions and peppers soften and the flavors combine without burning the sauce.
Can I use ground beef instead of ground chuck?
Yes, you can use regular ground beef, though lean ground chuck is recommended for the best texture and flavor.
How should I mix the ingredients?
It is recommended to use clean hands to thoroughly mix the meat, vegetables, and binders.
What if I don't have a meatloaf pan?
You can use any baking dish and simply shape the meat mixture into a loaf by hand.
Is this recipe considered comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as comfort food and is ideal for family dinners.
How do I distribute the vegetables between the meat and sauce?
Use three-quarters of the chopped onion and bell pepper in the meat mixture, and the remaining quarter in the sauce.
What makes this 'Texas' style?
The name refers to the hearty nature of the dish and its savory, bold flavor profile common in Texas home cooking.