Savory Cajun-Style Market Meatloaf
Inspired by the vibrant culinary traditions of New Orleans and Austin, this Savory Cajun-Style Market Meatloaf combines the rich flavors of Cajun sausage with the aromatic support of fresh vegetables and herbs. Adapted from classic Junior League cookbooks, this dish features ground beef blended with a medley of onions, bell peppers, and garlic, resulting in a hearty, moist texture. Topped with a luscious homemade Tomato Gravy, this meatloaf is perfect for family gatherings and showcases the delightful flavors of Southern cooking.
8-10 servings
Servings
360
Calories
18
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cajun-style sausage
8 ounces (diced)
Medium onion
1 (diced)
Small green bell pepper
1 (diced)
Garlic cloves
2 (minced)
Salt
2 teaspoons
Fresh ground black pepper
1 teaspoon
Dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon
Dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon
Ground beef
2 lbs
Beef broth
1 cup (divided (1/2 cup for meat mixture, 1/3 cup for gravy))
Tomato sauce
1/2 cup (for meat mixture)
Soft breadcrumbs
1/4 cup
Large egg
1 (lightly beaten)
Butter or margarine
2 tablespoons
All-purpose flour
2 tablespoons
Tomato sauce
8 ounces (for gravy)
Salt
1/4 teaspoon (for gravy)
Pepper
1/4 teaspoon (for gravy)
Instructions
1
In a large nonstick skillet, heat over medium-high heat and add the diced Cajun sausage, onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring often, until the vegetables are tender and the sausage is cooked through. Drain the mixture on paper towels and allow it to cool.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, beef broth, tomato sauce, and bread crumbs. Add the cooled sausage and vegetable mixture, and the lightly beaten egg. Mix gently until combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
3
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf (approximately 11.5 by 4 inches) and place it in a lightly greased, aluminum foil-lined jelly roll pan (15 by 10 inches).
4
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the meatloaf for about 50 minutes, or until the center is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the pan and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
5
For the Tomato Gravy, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, being careful not to burn it. Gradually whisk in the beef broth and tomato sauce. Reduce the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6
Serve the meatloaf slices warm, generously topped with the homemade Tomato Gravy.
Nutrition Information
24g
Fat
10g
Carbs
22g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Cajun-Style Market Meatloaf?
It is a hearty meatloaf inspired by New Orleans and Austin culinary traditions, featuring ground beef, Cajun sausage, and a homemade tomato gravy.
What are the main flavor inspirations for this recipe?
The recipe is inspired by Southern cooking, specifically traditions from New Orleans and Austin, adapted from classic Junior League cookbooks.
How many servings does this meatloaf recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 8 to 10 servings.
What type of sausage is used in this meatloaf?
The recipe calls for 8 ounces of diced Cajun-style sausage.
Which vegetables are included in the meat mixture?
The meatloaf includes one diced medium onion, one diced small green bell pepper, and two minced garlic cloves.
Do the vegetables need to be cooked before adding them to the meat?
Yes, you should sauté the sausage and vegetables in a nonstick skillet for about 10 minutes until tender before mixing them with the beef.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
How long does the meatloaf need to bake?
The meatloaf should bake for approximately 50 minutes.
How do I know when the meatloaf is finished cooking?
The meatloaf is done when the center is no longer pink.
Why should I let the meatloaf rest after baking?
Resting the meatloaf for 10 minutes before slicing helps it retain its juices and ensures cleaner slices.
What is the meatloaf topped with?
It is topped with a luscious homemade Tomato Gravy.
How is the Tomato Gravy prepared?
The gravy is made by creating a roux with butter and flour, then whisking in beef broth and tomato sauce until thickened.
How many calories are in a single serving?
Each serving contains approximately 360 calories.
What is the protein content per serving?
There are 22 grams of protein per serving.
How much fat is in one serving?
Each serving contains 24 grams of fat.
What are the carbohydrate counts for this recipe?
There are 10 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What kind of beef should I use?
The recipe specifies 2 lbs of ground beef.
What spices are used to season the meatloaf?
The seasonings include salt, fresh ground black pepper, dried thyme, and dried oregano.
How much beef broth is required for the entire recipe?
A total of 1 cup of beef broth is used, divided between the meat mixture and the gravy.
What kind of breadcrumbs are needed?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of soft breadcrumbs.
Is an egg necessary for this meatloaf?
Yes, one large, lightly beaten egg is used to help bind the ingredients together.
What size should the meatloaf be when shaped?
The meat mixture should be shaped into a loaf approximately 11.5 by 4 inches.
What type of baking pan is recommended?
A lightly greased, aluminum foil-lined jelly roll pan (15 by 10 inches) is recommended.
How do I prepare the sausage and vegetable mixture?
Sauté them in a skillet, then drain the mixture on paper towels and allow it to cool before mixing with the beef.
What should I do if there is excess fat in the pan after baking?
You should drain any excess fat from the pan after baking and before serving.
How much tomato sauce is needed for the gravy?
The gravy requires 8 ounces of tomato sauce.
How much butter is used for the gravy?
The gravy uses 2 tablespoons of butter or margarine.
Can I use dried herbs?
Yes, the recipe specifically calls for dried thyme and dried oregano.
What is the total ingredient count for this recipe?
There are 18 ingredients listed for this Savory Cajun-Style Market Meatloaf.
Is this recipe suitable for family gatherings?
Yes, its hearty size and flavorful profile make it perfect for family meals and gatherings.