Name: Caribbean Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef (900 g); 1 medium onion, finely chopped (150 g); 1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped (75 g); 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped (35 g); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried); 1 tablespoon browning sauce; 2 eggs, lightly beaten; 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs (50 g); 1/4 cup milk (60 mL); 1 teaspoon salt (5 g); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (2 g); 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional); 1 teaspoon scotch bonnet pepper, minced (or to taste); 1/4 cup ketchup (60 mL); 1 tablespoon brown sugar (12 g); 1 tablespoon vinegar (15 mL); 1 tablespoon mustard (15 mL)

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Why Make This Recipe

If you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine, try this Caribbean Meatloaf. It blends traditional comfort food with vibrant island flavors. The blend of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and zesty seasonings will add a delicious twist to your table. Plus, it’s simple to make and perfect for any occasion!

How to Make Caribbean Meatloaf

Ingredients:

2 pounds ground beef (900 g)
1 medium onion, finely chopped (150 g)
1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped (75 g)
1/4 cup celery, finely chopped (35 g)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
1 tablespoon browning sauce (like Grace or Kitchen Bouquet)
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs (50 g)
1/4 cup milk (60 mL)
1 teaspoon salt (5 g)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (2 g)
1 tablespoon ketchup (optional)
1 teaspoon scotch bonnet pepper, minced (or to taste)
1/4 cup ketchup (60 mL)
1 tablespoon brown sugar (12 g)
1 tablespoon vinegar (15 mL)
1 tablespoon mustard (15 mL)

Directions:

Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
In a bowl, mix together the ground beef, onion, bell pepper, celery, garlic, thyme, scotch bonnet pepper, browning sauce, eggs, milk, breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, and optional ketchup. Mix until just combined.
Transfer the mixture to the loaf pan and bake for 45–50 minutes.
While the meatloaf is baking, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and mustard in a bowl.
After 45 minutes, take the meatloaf out of the oven, spread the glaze on top, and return it to the oven for another 10–15 minutes. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

How to Serve Caribbean Meatloaf

Serve the Caribbean Meatloaf hot, sliced, with a drizzle of the glaze on top. It pairs well with side dishes like rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with plantains or coleslaw for an island-inspired meal.

How to Store Caribbean Meatloaf

You can store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or place it in the oven until heated through. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Caribbean Meatloaf

For extra flavor, try using fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley along with the thyme.
Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet pepper according to your heat preference.
If you prefer a smoother meatloaf, blend the vegetables before adding them to the meat mixture.

Variation

You can experiment with different types of ground meat, such as turkey or chicken, for a lighter version. Adding pineapple or other tropical fruits can also give a sweet touch to the dish.

FAQs

1. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for a day before baking.

2. Is it necessary to use browning sauce?
Browning sauce adds color and flavor, but you can skip it if you don’t have it. Just adjust the seasoning to your taste.

3. Can I use a different type of pepper instead of scotch bonnet?
Yes, you can substitute scotch bonnet pepper with jalapeño or another mild pepper if you prefer less heat.