Description

This meatloaf recipe Creole is a rich and flavorful twist on the classic comfort dish. Infused with Creole seasoning, the Holy Trinity of vegetables (onion, bell pepper, celery), and a tangy tomato-based glaze, this meatloaf is juicy, tender, and packed with bold Southern flavors. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, Cajun rice, or cornbread.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatloaf Base:

1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best texture)
½ lb ground pork (for extra juiciness)
½ cup breadcrumbs (or crushed saltine crackers)
½ cup whole milk (for moisture)
2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
1 small onion, finely diced
½ green bell pepper, finely diced
½ red bell pepper, finely diced
1 stalk celery, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp Creole seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
1 tbsp parsley, chopped (optional)
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper

Creole Glaze:

½ cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp Creole mustard (or Dijon mustard)
1 tsp hot sauce (optional for extra heat)
½ tsp Creole seasoning

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk, letting them soak for 5 minutes to add moisture to the meatloaf.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, soaked breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, and all seasonings.
Add in the diced onion, bell peppers, celery, and minced garlic.
Using clean hands or a wooden spoon, gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix, or the meatloaf will become dense.

Step 3: Shape & Bake

Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Alternatively, press it into a greased loaf pan.
Bake for 30 minutes, uncovered.

Step 4: Make the Creole Glaze

While the meatloaf bakes, mix ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, hot sauce, and Creole seasoning in a bowl.

Step 5: Glaze & Finish Baking

After 30 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush half of the glaze over the top.
Return it to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes until the glaze caramelizes and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
In the last 5 minutes of baking, add the remaining glaze for a richer flavor.

Step 6: Rest & Serve

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture.
Slice and serve with your favorite Southern sides like Cajun rice, mashed potatoes, or cornbread.

Notes

For a spicier version: Increase cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños to the mix.
For a leaner option: Swap ground pork for ground turkey and use low-fat milk.
For a keto-friendly version: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for best results.
Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 3 months.