Easy Homemade Meatloaf with Montreal Steak Spice

Easy Homemade Meatloaf with Montreal Steak Spice: 

Fun Facts

• Meatloaf: This comforting dish has roots in European cuisine, evolving into the American classic we know today. Meatloaf gained popularity in the United States during the Great Depression as a cost-effective, hearty meal.
• Montreal Steak Spice: Originating in Montreal, Canada, this spice blend was first used by butchers in the 1940s and 50s to season steaks. It's now widely loved for its robust and versatile flavor.

Full Ingredients List

For the Breadcrumb Marinade:

• Panko Breadcrumbs: 1 cup
• Milk: 1 cup (or non-dairy alternative)
• Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Smoked Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt and Pepper: To taste

For the Meatloaf:

• Meatloaf Mix: 1.3 kg (blend of beef, pork, or veal)
• Montreal Steak Spice: 2-3 tablespoons
• Eggs: 2 large, beaten
• Onions: 1 cup, caramelized

For the Tangy Glaze:

• Ketchup: 1/2 cup
• Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons
• Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tablespoon (or white vinegar)
• Mustard: 1 teaspoon (Dijon or yellow)
• Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
• Onion Powder: 1/4 teaspoon
• Salt and Pepper: To taste

Preparation Steps

1. Breadcrumb Marinade: Mix breadcrumbs with milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow to soak while you prepare the other components.

2. Caramelize Onions: Cook the onions until golden brown, then set aside to cool to room temperature.

3. Prepare the Glaze: In a separate bowl, combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This can be done ahead of time and refrigerated if preferred.

4. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).

5. Combine Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the meatloaf mix, Montreal steak spice, marinated breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, and caramelized onions.

6. Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf.

7. Apply the Glaze: Evenly coat the meatloaf with the prepared glaze.

8. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

9. Rest the Meatloaf: Let it rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serving and Storage

• Serve: This meatloaf is now ready to be enjoyed by your family.
• Store: Leftover meatloaf can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours, refrigerated for 3-4 days, or frozen for up to 3 months.

Fun Facts

• Meatloaf: An American comfort food staple, meatloaf's origins date back to Europe and gained popularity in the U.S. during the Great Depression.
• Montreal Steak Spice: A robust blend that originated from Montreal butchers, known for its bold, savory flavor.

Expected Elements for the Two-Day Preparation

Day 1: Preparing Breadcrumbs and Glaze

• Breadcrumb Marinade Preparation: Mix the breadcrumbs with the marinade ingredients and refrigerate overnight.
• Glaze Preparation: Combine all the glaze ingredients and refrigerate overnight for enhanced flavor.

Day 2: Preparing and Baking the Meatloaf

• Combine Meatloaf Ingredients: Mix the meatloaf mix with Montreal steak spice, the marinated breadcrumbs, and the caramelized onions. If desired, this mixture can be refrigerated overnight for further flavor development.
• Baking the Meatloaf: If the meat mixture was refrigerated overnight, bring it to room temperature before baking. Shape the mixture in a baking dish, apply the pre-made glaze, and bake at 350°F for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes.
• Resting the Meatloaf: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor distribution.