secret ingredient super moist meatloaf

Meat loaf is one of our favorite comfort food meals, and it’s such a fun, versatile food to make. I developed this one using what I had in the cupboard and refrigerator, and I think it turned out so good! I didn’t have breadcrumbs or crackers, so I improvised and used Rice Krispies cereal! You won’t believe how delicious and moist this is. And, no, you don’t taste the Rice Krispies. They’re just there to bind the meat and other ingredients together.

If you don’t have Swiss cheese, feel free to use cheddar, Mozzarella, or Monterey Jack.

Chili sauce or BBQ sauce can be used in lieu of ketchup, just omit the extra spices.

~ preheat oven to 350 degrees F. ~

3/4 cup ketchup, divided

1 teaspoon minced garlic

1/2 teaspoon allspice

1 heaping Tablespoon minced, dry onion

1/2 teaspoon chili powder

2 cups Rice Krispies cereal

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1/2 of a small green pepper, finely chopped

1/2 cup celery, finely chopped

3/4 cup shredded Swiss cheese

1 large egg, lightly beaten

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

2 lb. lean ground beef OR combination of beef, pork and turkey

In a small mixing bowl, combine the ketchup and spices. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the Rice Krispies, onion, green pepper, celery, cheese, egg, salt and pepper. Mix well. Stir in half of the ketchup mixture and the beef. Using your hands, mix everything gently but thoroughly.

Transfer to a greased 9×5 loaf pan. Make a shallow indentation down the center of the loaf. Spread the rest of the ketchup mixture evenly over the top.

Bake for 60 to 70 minutes or until a meat thermometer reads 160 degrees F. Allow to rest 10 minutes prior to slicing.

Note: This is wonderful served with Amish macaroni salad!

Enjoy!

~Melissa