Mustard-Apple Meatloaf

An easy and very tasty meatloaf using ground pork, applesauce, Dijon mustard and dry onion soup mix. Complete the comfort meal with steamed green beans and mashed potatoes.

Tips: We loved this meatloaf with the optional addition of baking it topped with 3 slices of bacon and a sprinkling of 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. We saved and refrigerated the drained drippings (aus jus) to use the next day for reheating slices of the leftover meatloaf in a skillet and then served them on split, buttered and toasted ciabatta rolls. They were the best hot meatloaf sandwiches we've ever eaten.

Recipe Ingredients:

2 pounds lean ground pork
1/2 cup applesauce
1/2 cup dry bread crumbs
1 (1-ounce) envelope dry onion soup mix
2 tablespoons Dijon-style mustard
Black pepper, to taste

Cooking Directions:

1. In large mixing bowl, blend together ground pork, applesauce, breadcrumbs, onion soup mix, Dijon-style mustard and black pepper to taste.
2. Turn mixture into loaf pan, pressing in lightly, and bake in 375ºF (190ºC) oven for 1 hour 15 minutes, until meat thermometer inserted reads 160ºF (70ºC).
3. Let loaf rest 10 minutes before slicing to serve.

Makes 6 servings.

Optional: Top meat loaf with brown sugar and 2 to 3 slices bacon 30 minutes before done.

Recipe and photograph provided courtesy of Pork, Be Inspired®.