Ingredients

For the Homemade Meatloaf:

• 1/2 cup milk
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 500 g (1 lb 2 oz) ground beef
• 500 g (1 lb 2 oz) ground pork
• 2 eggs
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• Olive oil, for sautéing
• 1 carrot, grated
• 100 g (3.5 oz) ham, chopped
• 70 g (2.5 oz) salami, chopped
• Bunch of parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• A few dashes of hot sauce
• 1 tsp Italian herbs
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp breadcrumbs
• 350 g (12.3 oz) bacon

For the Tomato Glaze:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• A drop of hot sauce
• Black pepper, to taste

For the Fried Potatoes with Mushrooms and Onions:

• Olive oil, for frying
• 200 g (7 oz) mushrooms, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• A pinch of salt
• Black pepper, to taste
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Some chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) while you prepare the meatloaf.
2. Soak the Breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, combine the milk and lemon juice. Add the breadcrumbs and let them soak for about 5 minutes.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In a pan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and grated carrot, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute. Set aside to cool slightly.
4. Combine the Meats: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and pork. Add the sautéed vegetables, soaked breadcrumbs, ham, salami, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
5. Form the Meatloaf: Crack in the eggs and mix again until the mixture is smooth and cohesive. Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan, pressing it down evenly.
6. Wrap with Bacon: Lay the strips of bacon over the top of the meatloaf, tucking the ends underneath the loaf. This will help keep the meatloaf moist and add flavor as it cooks.
7. Bake the Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the meatloaf is cooked through.

Step 2: Make the Tomato Glaze

1. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and black pepper.
2. Apply the Glaze: After the meatloaf has baked for 40 minutes, remove it from the oven and brush the tomato glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize.

Step 3: Prepare the Fried Potatoes with Mushrooms and Onions

1. Cook the Potatoes: Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes until golden and crispy. Season with salt and black pepper.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: While the potatoes are cooking, heat a bit more oil in a separate pan. Add the sliced mushrooms and chopped onion, sautéing them for 5-7 minutes until tender and browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Combine: Once the potatoes are cooked and crispy, add the sautéed mushrooms and onions to the pan and stir to combine. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with chopped chives if desired.

Step 4: Serve

1. Slice and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve the meatloaf alongside the fried potatoes with mushrooms and onions.
2. Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley over the meatloaf for added color and freshness.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings)

• Calories: 650 kcal
• Protein: 34 g
• Fat: 40 g
• Carbohydrates: 27 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 9 g
• Sodium: 900 mg

Note: Nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredient brands and portions used.

Tips for Making Perfect Meatloaf and Fried Potatoes

• Moisture in the Meatloaf: To ensure the meatloaf is moist, don’t skip the step of soaking the breadcrumbs. This helps bind the ingredients together while keeping the loaf tender.
• Customize the Meatloaf: Feel free to swap the ham and salami for other deli meats, such as turkey or roast beef, depending on your preferences.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight to let the flavors meld.
• Crispy Potatoes: For extra crispy potatoes, make sure your pan is hot before adding the diced potatoes, and avoid crowding the pan. Fry in batches if necessary.
• Use Different Vegetables: Feel free to swap the mushrooms and onions in the fried potato recipe with other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for a different flavor profile.

Storage Tips

• Meatloaf: Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Tomato Glaze: If you have extra tomato glaze, store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 1 week. It’s great on burgers, grilled chicken, or as a dipping sauce.
• Fried Potatoes: The fried potatoes with mushrooms and onions are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet to regain some of their crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use only ground beef for the meatloaf?
A: Yes, you can substitute the pork with an equal amount of ground beef, though using a combination of beef and pork gives the meatloaf a better texture and flavor.

Q: Can I use store-bought tomato sauce for the glaze?
A: Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use store-bought tomato sauce or barbecue sauce as a base for the glaze, adjusting the sweetness and acidity with brown sugar and balsamic vinegar.

Q: Can I make this dish without bacon?
A: While the bacon adds flavor and moisture, you can skip it if you prefer a leaner meatloaf or if you want to make it a bit lighter.

Q: Can I prepare this meal in advance?
A: Absolutely! The meatloaf can be prepared the day before and baked when ready to serve. You can also fry the potatoes and mushrooms in advance and reheat them in a skillet.

Conclusion

This homemade meatloaf with a sweet and tangy tomato glaze, paired with crispy fried potatoes and mushrooms, is a comforting and filling meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or special gathering, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds. With easy-to-follow steps and flavorful ingredients, you’ll have a delicious homemade meal that’s sure to impress!