Patti LaBelle Meatloaf Recipe

Patti LaBelle’s meatloaf recipe is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food.

With the addition of sharp cheddar cheese, onions, and green bell peppers, this meatloaf brings a rich and savory flavor to your dinner table.

Combine ground beef with Lipton onion soup mix, bread crumbs, and parsley for a perfectly seasoned loaf that stays moist and tender.

One key trick I’ve learned is to avoid overhandling the mixture to keep the meatloaf from becoming heavy.

I love this recipe because it’s straightforward yet packed with flavor, making it perfect for any family dinner.

How to Make Patti LaBelle Meatloaf 

Ingredients

• 2 lbs Ground Beef
• 1 Onion (diced)
• 1 Green Bell Pepper (diced)
• 2 stalks Celery (diced)
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (grated)
• 2 tsp Garlic (minced)
• 1 cup Bread Crumbs
• 1 packet Lipton Onion Soup Mix
• 2 tbsp Parsley (chopped)
• 1/4 cup Ketchup
• 1/2 cup Water (warm)
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Lightly grease a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan.

Step 2:

Combine ground beef, onion, bell pepper, celery, cheddar cheese, and garlic in a large bowl.

Mix well but avoid overhandling.

Step 3:

In a medium bowl, mix bread crumbs, Lipton onion soup mix, parsley, warm water, and ketchup.

Combine thoroughly.

Step 4:

Add the mixture to the meat and vegetable blend.

Mix with your hands until evenly combined.

Step 5:

Press the mixture evenly into the prepared loaf pan.

Place the pan on a baking sheet for easy transfer.

Step 6:

Bake the meatloaf for about 60 minutes or until a meat thermometer reads 160°F (71°C).

Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Vegetables

Fresh veggies add crunch and brightness, making your meatloaf even tastier.

Dice them evenly so they cook uniformly.

Don’t Overhandle

Mix the ingredients just until they are combined.

Overmixing can make the meatloaf dense and tough.

Add Cheese Generously

Sharp cheddar cheese brings richness to this dish.

Feel free to add more if you love cheese!

Allow it to Rest

After baking, let the meatloaf sit for a few minutes.

This helps it firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.

Make Extra for Leftovers

This meatloaf is just as good the next day!

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days.

What to Serve with Patti LaBelle Meatloaf

Classic Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a timeless choice and pair perfectly with meatloaf.

The creamy texture and buttery flavor complement the savory goodness of the meatloaf.

Serve them with a bit of gravy, and your meal will be a hit!

Sautéed Green Beans

Green beans lightly sautéed with garlic and a bit of lemon zest add a refreshing and light component.

They stand out while not overpowering the rich flavors of the meatloaf.

A sprinkle of toasted almonds can also add a delightful crunch.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Brussels sprouts roasted until crispy and then drizzled with balsamic glaze add a touch of sophistication.

The slight bitterness pairs well with the savory and slightly sweet elements of Patti LaBelle’s meatloaf.

These sprouts bring a new level of flavor to your plate!

Creamy Polenta

Creamy polenta is an unexpected but delightful pairing with meatloaf.

Its smooth texture and subtle taste offer a lovely contrast to the hearty meatloaf.

Consider infusing the polenta with a bit of parmesan cheese for added depth.

Cornbread

Cornbread is a Southern staple that works great with meatloaf.

Its slightly sweet flavor and crumbly texture complement the boldness of the meatloaf.

Warm it up and serve with a pat of butter for an extra touch of comfort.

Variations and Substitutions

Different Meat Choices

You can switch out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to make a lighter meatloaf.

Mixing in some ground pork can add extra juiciness and flavor.

Alternative Vegetables

If you don’t have green bell peppers, try using red or yellow ones instead.

Adding chopped mushrooms can give a nice, earthy flavor to your meatloaf.

Cheese Substitutions

If sharp cheddar isn’t your thing, consider using mozzarella or Monterey Jack.

For a spicier kick, add pepper jack cheese to the mix instead.

Binding Ingredients

Instead of bread crumbs, you can use crushed crackers or rolled oats.

Using ground flaxseed mixed with water can also serve as a good binder if you’re looking to make it gluten-free.

Sauce Variations

Mix barbecue sauce with the ketchup for a smokier flavor.

You can also use tomato paste with a bit of honey and vinegar for a different sweet and tangy twist.

Dietary Adjustments

For a lower-carb option, substitute the bread crumbs with almond flour.

If you’re dairy-free, simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

How to Store Leftover Patti LaBelle Meatloaf

Proper Wrapping

To keep your delicious Patti LaBelle meatloaf fresh longer, start by wrapping it tightly.

Using plastic wrap or aluminum foil, cover the meatloaf completely to shield it from air exposure.

This step prevents it from drying out in the refrigerator.

Utilize Airtight Containers

Place the wrapped meatloaf inside an airtight container.

A container with a secure lid will add an extra layer of protection against moisture loss and contamination.

You can use glass or plastic containers, whichever you have on hand.

Label and Date

Always label your containers with the date that you stored the leftovers.

This helps you keep track of how long they’ve been in the fridge.

Leftover meatloaf should be consumed within three to four days for the best taste and safety.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using Meat with Low Fat Content

You might be tempted to use lean meats like chicken or turkey.

These choices can lead to a dry meatloaf.

Aim for ground beef with a higher fat content to keep your meatloaf moist and flavorful!

Overmixing the Ingredients

Mixing ingredients too much can be a problem.

Overmixing makes the texture tough.

Blend until just combined for the best results!

Skipping the Rest Time

The meatloaf needs to rest after baking.

Skipping this step can cause it to fall apart.

Give it 10 minutes to cool for a firmer slice and easier serving!