Millionaire’s Meatloaf
Millionaire’s Meatloaf takes the classic comfort food to new heights with an unexpected twist of spicy shrimp. This dish, created by Chef David Burke, is a flavor-packed blend of savory meatloaf topped with perfectly seasoned chili shrimp.
The meatloaf itself is made with a blend of lean ground beef, fresh herbs, and a tangy mix of Dijon mustard, barbecue sauce, and horseradish. A crispy crouton base adds texture, while sautéed onions and garlic infuse the loaf with rich, aromatic flavor.
Topped with fiery chili shrimp and served with mashed potatoes, this recipe delivers a bold, satisfying meal that will elevate any dinner table. It’s a fusion of comfort and heat that’s sure to impress.
Millionaire’s Meatloaf Ingredients
For a bold twist on a classic favorite, Millionaire’s Meatloaf combines premium ingredients to create a dish that’s rich in flavor and texture. The lean ground beef forms the hearty base, while a mix of eggs and milk ensures a tender, juicy loaf. Fresh bread crumbs bring lightness, and croutons add a satisfying crunch.
Dijon mustard and barbecue sauce infuse a tangy depth, complemented by the heat of horseradish. Aromatic onions, garlic, and thyme layer the meatloaf with savory richness, while parsley brightens each bite with freshness. Topping it all off, spicy shrimp adds a fiery kick, elevating this dish to a whole new level.
Millionaire’s Meatloaf: Enhancing the Experience
Recipe Tips
- Ensure the Meatloaf is Moist
To keep your Millionaire’s Meatloaf moist and tender, be sure not to overmix the meat when combining the ingredients. Overmixing can result in a dense, dry loaf. Instead, gently combine the ingredients until just mixed, ensuring a soft, juicy texture. Using fresh bread crumbs and milk also helps maintain moisture throughout the baking process. - Perfect Shrimp with the Right Spice
When preparing the chili shrimp, be careful not to overcook the shrimp. Jumbo shrimp cook quickly, and you only need about 2 minutes per side to achieve that perfect golden crust. For an extra flavor boost, adjust the level of chili powder and cayenne pepper based on your preferred spice level, but don’t overpower the dish. - Crouton Customization
Homemade croutons are an easy way to add extra flavor and texture to your meatloaf. If you prefer, you can use store-bought croutons, but making your own allows you to infuse them with additional herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, that complement the meatloaf’s seasoning.
What to Serve with Millionaire’s Meatloaf
- Classic Mashed Potatoes
A rich serving of mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with Millionaire’s Meatloaf. Their creamy, smooth texture complements the bold flavors of the meatloaf and spicy shrimp. You can even stir in some roasted garlic or chives for an added touch of flavor. The mashed potatoes help balance the heat from the chili shrimp while enhancing the dish’s overall comfort. - Grilled Vegetables
For a light and fresh contrast, serve Millionaire’s Meatloaf with a side of grilled vegetables. Think zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, lightly seasoned with olive oil and herbs. The charred flavor from grilling brings out the sweetness of the veggies, creating a perfect pairing with the savory and spicy elements of the meatloaf. - Crisp Green Salad
A crisp, refreshing salad can cut through the richness of the meatloaf. Toss together fresh greens, such as arugula or spinach, with a zesty vinaigrette. Adding some sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion will enhance the freshness, while the acidity of the dressing provides a nice contrast to the dish’s hearty flavors.
FAQ
- Can I make the croutons ahead of time?
Yes, croutons can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. You can make them a day or two in advance and simply sprinkle them over the meatloaf before baking. This not only saves time but also allows the croutons to soak up all the delicious juices from the meatloaf. - Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for the meatloaf?
Ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option. However, turkey tends to be drier than beef, so adding a bit more milk or oil to the mixture may help maintain moisture. - How spicy are the chili shrimp?
The chili shrimp can be adjusted to your spice tolerance. The recipe as written provides a moderate level of heat, but if you prefer a milder version, you can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and chili powder. For more heat, simply add more of these spices or increase the chili oil. - Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and form it in advance, storing it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. You can also make the chili shrimp ahead of time and reheat them briefly in a hot pan before serving. This makes it an excellent option for meal prepping or entertaining guests.
Millionaire’s Meatloaf
Ingredients
- For the Meatloaf
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup fresh bread crumbs
- 1 tablespoon well-drained horseradish
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup barbecue sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1½ teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh thyme
- ¼ cup finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
- 2 to 3 cups croutons store-bought or homemade, see note
- 1½ tablespoons olive oil
- 2 medium onions finely chopped
- 6 cloves garlic minced
- For the Chili Shrimp
- 4 jumbo shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1½ teaspoons mild or hot chili powder
- 1½ teaspoons cayenne pepper
- 1½ teaspoons paprika
- 1½ tablespoons Wondra flour
- 1 teaspoon chili oil
- For Serving
- Mashed potatoes optional
Instructions
- For the Meatloaf
- Prepare the Base
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing them for 3-4 minutes until tender and translucent. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Mix the Meatloaf
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, and milk, mixing gently by hand. Incorporate the bread crumbs, Dijon mustard, barbecue sauce, horseradish, and the cooled onions and garlic. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley, then mix until evenly combined.
- Assemble the Meatloaf
- Lay the croutons across the base of a shallow 8-inch square baking dish. Transfer the meatloaf mixture on top, pressing it down to create an even layer. Bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the top is browned. While the meatloaf bakes, prepare the chili shrimp.
- For the Chili Shrimp
- Prepare the Shrimp
- In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, cayenne pepper, paprika, and Wondra flour. Coat the shrimp in the mixture, ensuring they are fully covered.
- Cook the Shrimp
- Heat the chili oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the shrimp and cook for approximately 2 minutes on each side until they are golden and cooked through.
- To Serve
- Finish and Plate
- Slice the cooked meatloaf into 4 portions and place a slice on each plate. Top with a spicy chili shrimp and, if desired, serve with mashed potatoes on the side for added richness.