Cowboy Meatloaf 

This hearty and flavorful meatloaf combines ground beef and pork, pinto beans, melty cheddar cheese, and a smoky BBQ glaze. It's a comforting, one-pan meal that's perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The surprise of melted cheese in the center adds a delightful twist to the classic meatloaf.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced

• 1 green bell pepper, finely diced

• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced

• 2 pounds ground beef (80/20)

• 1 pound ground pork

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1 cup canned pinto beans, drained and rinsed

• ½ cup plain breadcrumbs

• 1 cup BBQ sauce, divided

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 2 teaspoons chili powder

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

2. Prepare Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, beaten eggs, pinto beans, breadcrumbs, ½ cup of BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper. Add the sautéed vegetables and mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

3. Form Meatloaf: Transfer half of the meat mixture to a greased loaf pan. Press it into the pan to form a flat base. Create a shallow trench down the center of the meat mixture. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese into the trench.

4. Top with Remaining Meat Mixture: Carefully place the remaining meat mixture over the cheese, sealing the edges to enclose the filling. Shape the entire loaf into an even shape, about 8–9 inches long and 4–5 inches wide.

5. Apply BBQ Sauce: Brush ¼ cup of the remaining BBQ sauce over the top of the meatloaf.

6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the meatloaf for 40 minutes. Carefully remove from the oven and brush with the remaining BBQ sauce. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

7. Rest and Serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 610 kcal

• Protein: 41g

• Fat: 41g

• Carbohydrates: 13g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 7g

• Sodium: 1,200mg

• Cholesterol: 125mg