How do you feel about the meatloaf?

When I hear the word 'meat loaf' I cringe a little. 

I think of 'The Christmas Story' when Randy, Ralphie's brother, is eating dinner... meatloaf... and says, 'meat loaf, beat loaf, I hate meatloaf'. 

Maybe it needs a new name?

I found a recipe years ago that I thought I'd try.  This was my first meatloaf and my last.  Last, because I LOVE it! 

G requested it this week and I made it again. 

Everyone who has tried this ends up loving it, not gonna lie!

Give it a shot and tell me if it was a hit! 

Before we go on I'll tell you this recipe calls for ground beef.  A few years ago while my sister was out we went grocery shopping together and she picked up the ground turkey.  Weird, I thought.  I don't like to try new things.  After she left I bought some for myself and tried it.  We are totally converted to the ground turkey!  I've been buying it instead of beef for the last few years.

Here is some nutrition info for you.  The turkey is a better alternative to 80/20 beef, but if you buy 90/10 beef, it's about the same.  Each is a 1 oz serving...

Meat Loaf Recipe

1.5 lb lean ground beef or turkey

1 c cheddar cheese, cubed

2 large eggs

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1/2 green pepper, finely chopped

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. pepper

1 tsp. celery salt

1/2 tsp. paprika

1 c finely dried bread crumbs

Heat oven to 350.  Combine all ingredients in large mixing bowl.  Using hands, blend everything together until evenly mixed.  Transfer meat to baking pan (bread pan).  Bake loaf for 60-70 minutes, until browned on edges and center cooked.

I was in a hurry this time around so instead of cubing my cheese I busted out the pre shredded, bagged stuff.  I subbed chopping onions for dry ones, and I split it into two pans so they'd cook faster.  I also cooked at 400.  I think I'll hold onto this change because the best part is the crusty outer shell from the cheese and this way you have twice as much!

I really think the cheese and celery salt make this meat loaf magical!!!

Give it a try!