Meat Loaf

Meat loaf. Beat loaf. I hate meat loaf.  I think I remember complaining whenever Mom made meatloaf but then scarffing it right up.  It took me well into my adult years to figure out I actually like it even though I've been eating it all along.  And it's easy.  Just think of it as a low-carb hamburger.  This isn't how Mom makes hers but I sure like it.

17 saltines, crushed fine (about 2/3 cup)
1/4 cup milk
3 T Worcestershire sauce
1/3 cup minced fresh parsley (or less, or none at all)
1 1/2 T  Dijon mustard
1 large egg
1 tsp onion powder
1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper
1 1/2 lbs meat loaf mix (I never buy that, just ground beef for me)

Mix everything in a bowl but the meat.  Then add the meat. (This is where I deviate from the recipe.  It actually instructs to shape into mini-loaves and fry on the stove. The oven is easier) Then mold it into a loaf shape and place in a pan. Cover in ketchup just like Mom did.  Bake at 350 uncovered until no longer pink. (Do you have a meat thermometer?  You're looking for 160 degrees. No? Then keep checking til its not pink.)

Mac and cheese, meatloaf and squash.  What a wonderful fall meal.