Why Make This Recipe
Mummy Meatloaf is a fun and spooky dish perfect for Halloween or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with a creative twist. This dish not only tastes great but also adds a playful touch to your meal. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic meatloaf while engaging kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients that you might already have at home!
How to Make Mummy Meatloaf
Ingredients
- Ground Meat: 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 is ideal for flavor and moisture)
- Ground Meat: ½ lb ground pork
- Binder: 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs (Panko creates a lighter texture than traditional breadcrumbs)
- Aromatics: 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- Aromatics: 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Moisture and Flavor: ⅔ cup whole milk
- Eggs: 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- Herbs: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried)
- Seasoning: 1 teaspoon salt
- Seasoning: ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Umami Boost: 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Base: ½ cup ketchup
- Sweetness: 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
- Tang: 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Spice: ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Pastry: 1 (14-16 oz) package of refrigerated pie crust or puff pastry sheets, thawed according to package directions
- Eyes: 16 candy eyeballs, or you can use small pieces of olive, capers, or even dots of ketchup/mustard
Directions
Step 1: Prepare your workstation and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, Panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, milk, eggs, parsley, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well until everything is combined.
Step 3: Shape the meat mixture into mini loaves and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the mini meatloaves for about 25 minutes or until cooked through.
Step 5: While the meatloaves bake, prepare the glaze by mixing ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar in a bowl.
Step 6: Remove the mini meatloaves from the oven and brush them with the glaze. Then, wrap strips of pie crust or puff pastry around the meatloaves to create a mummy effect.
Step 7: Return the wrapped meatloaves to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
Step 8: Once baked, take out the meatloaves and let them rest for a few minutes. Then, add candy eyeballs or your preferred eye toppings to complete the spooky look.
How to Serve Mummy Meatloaf
Serve the Mummy Meatloaf hot from the oven. It pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad for a complete meal. You can even serve it up on a spooky-themed platter to enhance the Halloween vibe.
How to Store Mummy Meatloaf
If you have leftovers, allow the Mummy Meatloaf to cool down completely. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
Tips to Make Mummy Meatloaf
- Use a mix of beef and pork for more flavor and moisture.
- Don’t skip the Panko breadcrumbs; they give a nice texture.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings or add more herbs to suit your taste.
- For a quicker option, you can buy ready-made pie crust or puff pastry.
Variation
You can turn this recipe into a Mummy Meatball version! Just make smaller meatballs, bake them, and wrap them in pastry strips to create a bite-sized version. This is great for a party appetizer!
FAQs
Q: Can I use different types of meat?
A: Yes, you can mix in ground turkey or chicken if you prefer. Just adjust the seasonings accordingly.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Shape and bake it when ready.
Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A: Absolutely! Kids love the fun mummy appearance, and they will enjoy eating it too. You can let them help wrap the meatloaf in pastry!