A flavorful meatloaf with a seasoned breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture.

Ingredients

Seasoning Mix:

  • 2 tsp dry mustard
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 1/2 tsp dried thyme leaves
  • 1 1/2 tsp dried sweet basil leaves
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp white pepper

Meatloaf:

  • 8 slices bacon, diced
  • 1 1/2 cups chopped onions
  • 1 cup chopped green bell peppers
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 4 bay leaves
  • 1 cup tomato juice
  • 1/2 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 1/2 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 lb ground veal
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup unsalted saltine cracker crumbs (about 12 crackers)
  • Vegetable oil cooking spray

Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
  2. Combine seasoning mix ingredients in a small bowl.
  3. Cook bacon over high heat until brown and crispy. Remove.
  4. Add onion to skillet and cook until onions are golden brown, about 5 minutes.
  5. Add the green peppers, celery, bay leaves, and 2 tbsp of the seasoning mix and cook, stirring and scraping occasionally, about 4 minutes.
  6. Add the remaining seasoning mix and cook, stirring often, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the heat and discard the bay leaves.
  7. Combine the tomato juice, evaporated milk, and the cooked bacon in a large bowl. Add the cooked vegetable mixture and blend well.
  8. Gently combine the meat, eggs, and cracker crumbs in another large bowl. Add the vegetable mixture and being careful not to pack too tightly, incorporate everything thoroughly.
  9. Spray a 13 X 9 loaf pan or casserole dish with cooking spray. Turn the meat mixture into the pan and mold it into a thick loaf.
  10. Bake 30 minutes, turn the pan around and bake another 15 minutes.
  11. Cut into slices about 3/4 inch thick and serve.