Not the Prettiest Thing I've Made

Meatloaf does NOT photograph well and this was no exception. I only wanted to share this picture cuz I've discovered a new use for my cast iron pan. I don't cook with it nearly enough besides making skillet cornbreads once in a while and I'm always looking for new recipes to make in it. This meatloaf had the most amazing crust on the top and bottom thanks to the cast iron and it stayed really moist inside. The combination of beef and pork gave it great flavor along with the tomato sauce and cheese. I also loved the idea of browning the onions first and then baking the meatloaf in the same skillet. We were definitely in meat heaven tonight!

Ingredients:


2 Tbsp salted butter
1 c chopped yellow onion
1 c fresh bread crumbs
1 lb ground beef
1/2 lb ground pork
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
2 large eggs
1 c grated cheddar cheese
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tsp Italian seasoning
Ketchup, for serving


Prep:


1. Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 350ºF.


2. In a 10 or 12-inch cast iron skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the onions and cook for 3 minutes. Transfer to a large mixing bowl. Place all the remaining ingredients in the bowl with the onions, and mix together with your hands until well blended. Form into a football-shaped loaf in the same cast-iron skillet.


3. Place the skillet in the oven and back until the center is no longer pink, about 1 hour. Let cool for 10 minutes. Pour off the excess fat and juices. Slice and serve hot with ketchup for dipping.