Get ready to transform your dinner table with a mouthwatering Southern classic that'll make your taste buds dance with joy! This isn't just another meatloaf recipe - it's a culinary journey that combines the rich, smoky flavors of BBQ-infused ground beef with crispy, golden cornmeal waffles and a luxurious homemade gravy. Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings the heart and soul of Southern cooking right to your kitchen.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your meatloaf cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, BBQ sauce, diced onion, and eggs. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Use your hands to mix the ingredients until well combined, but be careful not to overmix.
- Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf. Smooth the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). While the meatloaf is baking, you can prepare the cornmeal waffles and gravy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the milk, stirring until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Let the batter rest for about 10 minutes to thicken.
- Heat a waffle iron according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once heated, pour the cornmeal batter into the waffle iron, filling it about halfway. Close the lid and cook until the waffles are golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Repeat with the remaining batter.
- For the gravy, in a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of milk and 1/4 cup of flour. Whisk constantly to avoid lumps and cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This will help the juices redistribute and make for a juicier meatloaf.
- To serve, place a slice of BBQ Southern Meat Loaf on a plate, top with cornmeal waffles, and drizzle generously with the gravy. Enjoy your delicious Southern-inspired meal!
Tips
- Meat Mixing Magic: When combining the meatloaf ingredients, use a light touch. Overmixing can make the meat tough and dense.
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatloaf reaches 160°F (70°C) for food safety and optimal juiciness.
- Resting Matters: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
- Waffle Perfection: Let your cornmeal waffle batter rest for 10 minutes before cooking to allow the cornmeal to absorb the liquid and create a more tender waffle.
- Gravy Tip: Whisk constantly when making the gravy to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
- Make Ahead: This dish is great for meal prep. You can prepare the meatloaf and waffles in advance and reheat when ready to serve.
- Customize Your BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce to add a personal touch to the meatloaf's flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 180mg
