Hello, culinary adventurers and comfort food connoisseurs! We’re thrilled to unveil a sneak peek from our upcoming masterpiece – the Hudson Valley Style Recipe Book. It’s a collection where every page is a love letter to the flavors and traditions of the Hudson Valley. And what better way to start this flavorful journey than with a classic from the heart of Poughkeepsie – the Comfort Meatloaf. This dish isn’t just a recipe; it’s a warm embrace from the culinary soul of Hudson Valley. Paired with creamy mashed potatoes, it’s the epitome of homestyle indulgence. Ready to dive into this belly-warming delight? Let’s get cooking! For more tantalizing Hudson Valley Style recipes, be sure to keep an eye on our collection.
Poughkeepsie’s Comfort Meatloaf: A Recipe to Warm Your Belly and Your Heart – Introducing the Hudson Valley Style Recipe Book: Featuring Poughkeepsie’s Comfort Meatloaf – Hudson Valley Style Recipes with Maxwell Alexander – Presented by Alluvion Vacations
Ah, meatloaf – the culinary equivalent of a warm hug from Grandma. It’s the dish that says, “I may not be fancy, but I’m made with love.” Today, we’re taking a little culinary jaunt to Poughkeepsie, a place where meatloaf isn’t just food; it’s a love language. And what better way to round off this hearty meal than with a side of creamy mashed potatoes, smoother than a jazz saxophonist on a Saturday night? Let’s dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork (for that Poughkeepsie pizzazz)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup, plus extra for glazing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for that green sprinkle of happiness)
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 5 large potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 4 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of love (non-negotiable)
Instructions:
- Preheat Your Affections (and Oven): Set your oven to a toasty 375°F (190°C).
- Meatloaf Mixology: In a large bowl, combine ground beef and pork with breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined – think of it like a gentle handshake, not a wrestling match.
- Shape the Love: Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking tray. For extra flair, whisper sweet nothings to it.
- Glaze with Care: Brush the top with a generous layer of ketchup. It’s like putting a cozy blanket over your meatloaf.
- Bake the Hug: Bake for about 1 hour. You’ll know it’s done when it’s as warm and inviting as a Poughkeepsie porch light.
- Mash with Passion: While the meatloaf is baking, boil your potatoes until fork-tender. Drain and add warm milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy, like a cloud made of potatoes.
- The Grand Unveiling: Let the meatloaf rest for a bit after baking (it’s had a long day). Slice it up and serve with a mountain of your heavenly mashed potatoes.
- Serve with a Smile: Plate up this comfort classic and watch as faces light up around the table.
So there you have it, folks – Poughkeepsie’s Comfort Meatloaf, a dish that’s guaranteed to warm your belly and your heart. It’s the perfect meal for when you need a little reminder that the world’s not such a bad place. After all, any place with meatloaf and mashed potatoes can’t be all bad, right?
