The spicy tang of buffalo sauce combined with the hearty, juicy texture of a classic meatloaf creates a bold twist on a beloved comfort dish. Each slice is packed with cheddar cheese and celery, adding both creaminess and crunch that elevate this savory loaf to a whole new level.
This dish is perfect for those who love a little heat in their dinner. The rich buffalo flavors balanced by blue cheese crumbles make it a standout meal for family dinners, game days, or whenever you crave that iconic buffalo wing taste in a comforting, easy-to-slice format.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 ½ lbs ground beef
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½ lb ground pork
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1 cup breadcrumbs
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1 large egg
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½ cup buffalo wing sauce (plus extra for glazing)
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½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
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¼ cup blue cheese crumbles
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½ cup finely chopped celery
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon salt
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, buffalo wing sauce, cheddar cheese, celery, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly combined.
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Shape the meat mixture into a loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
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Brush the top of the meatloaf with melted butter and a generous layer of buffalo wing sauce for extra tang and moisture.
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Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
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Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
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Serve with a drizzle of blue cheese dressing or sprinkle with blue cheese crumbles for an authentic buffalo flavor finish.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Kcal: 380 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
The Origin and Popularity of Buffalo Flavors
Buffalo sauce was born in the mid-20th century at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York, and quickly grew in popularity due to its addictive blend of hot sauce and butter. Typically paired with fried chicken wings, the sauce’s tangy, spicy profile revolutionized bar food and finger snacks. Over time, the bold buffalo flavor has transcended its wing origins, inspiring dishes from dips and sandwiches to pizza toppings and even salads.
Ellens Buffalo Meatloaf channels that same spirit of innovation, proving that buffalo flavors aren’t limited to wings alone. By infusing the meatloaf with buffalo sauce and pairing it with classic accompaniments like blue cheese and celery, this recipe celebrates and reinvents a beloved American taste.
Buffalo Meatloaf: A Bold Twist on Classic Comfort Food
Meatloaf has long been a beloved staple of home cooking across America and beyond. This hearty dish, traditionally made from ground meats mixed with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings, offers both comfort and versatility. While many think of meatloaf as a simple, sometimes predictable meal, Ellen’s Buffalo Meatloaf shakes things up by infusing it with the fiery, tangy flavors of classic buffalo wings. The result is a meatloaf experience that’s bursting with boldness and layered complexity perfect for those who crave comfort food but want something with a little kick.
The Inspiration Behind Buffalo Meatloaf
Buffalo chicken wings, originally invented in Buffalo, New York, have become an iconic American appetizer. Their spicy, tangy sauce, typically made with hot sauce and butter, paired with cooling blue cheese or ranch dressing, creates a flavor combo that’s hard to beat. Ellens Buffalo Meatloaf takes that winning formula and incorporates it directly into the meatloaf itself melding ground beef and pork with buffalo wing sauce, sharp cheddar, celery, and blue cheese to create a dish that’s hearty yet vibrant.
This fusion respects the traditions of both dishes: the satisfying texture and substance of meatloaf, combined with the unmistakable heat and zest of buffalo wings. By blending these elements, the recipe manages to feel nostalgic and innovative all at once.
Flavors and Texture: What to Expect
When you bite into Ellens Buffalo Meatloaf, the first thing you’ll notice is the kick of buffalo sauce—spicy but balanced by the richness of the meat. The inclusion of both beef and pork adds depth and juiciness, preventing the loaf from feeling dry or dense. The cheddar cheese melts throughout the meat mixture, creating pockets of gooey, savory goodness, while the finely chopped celery offers a subtle crunch that brightens each bite.
A final topping of melted butter brushed with extra buffalo sauce ensures the meatloaf’s exterior is slightly caramelized and glossy, amplifying the spicy aroma and flavor. Once out of the oven, a scatter of blue cheese crumbles or a drizzle of blue cheese dressing provides a creamy, tangy contrast that cuts through the heat — much like the classic wing experience.
Why This Meatloaf Stands Out
What makes Ellens Buffalo Meatloaf truly special is its balance of bold flavors and comforting familiarity. It doesn’t stray too far from what we expect in a meatloaf, but it elevates the dish by layering in the spice and tang of buffalo wings. This means it appeals to a wide range of palates from those who love classic comfort food to spice lovers looking for something new.
Another point of distinction is how approachable the recipe is. Despite its complex flavors, the ingredients are straightforward and common in many kitchens. The method doesn’t require fancy techniques, making this a perfect recipe for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. It’s also highly adaptable, allowing home cooks to tweak the heat level by adjusting the amount of buffalo sauce or to swap out ingredients for dietary preferences.
Tips for Perfecting Your Buffalo Meatloaf
To get the best results with this recipe, consider these helpful tips:
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Meat Mix: Using a blend of ground beef and pork helps keep the meatloaf moist and flavorful. The pork adds fat and richness that balances the leaner beef.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
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Breadcrumbs and Egg: These binders are crucial to help the meatloaf hold its shape and retain moisture, but don’t overdo them or the loaf may become dense.
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Celery Crunch: Finely chopped celery adds texture and a subtle freshness. If you prefer, you can add diced green onions or bell peppers for a twist.
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Adjusting Heat: If you want a milder loaf, reduce the buffalo sauce or use a milder wing sauce. For extra heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapeños.
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Resting Time: Let the meatloaf rest after baking for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it easier to slice and more succulent.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Ellens Buffalo Meatloaf pairs beautifully with traditional comfort sides as well as more adventurous options. Classic mashed potatoes or creamy coleslaw balance the spicy meatloaf perfectly, offering cooling textures and mild flavors. Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans are also excellent choices.
For a lighter take, serve thin slices of the meatloaf alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. Cornbread or garlic bread can add a comforting starch component to the meal. For sauces, consider blue cheese dressing or ranch on the side, giving each eater the chance to tailor the spice level to their liking.
For drinks, a cold beer or a crisp, slightly sweet white wine complements the spicy, rich flavors of the meatloaf. Non-alcoholic options like iced tea or sparkling water with lemon are refreshing choices that balance the heat.
Variations and Customizations
This recipe is a fantastic canvas for creativity. Some people might prefer to swap the cheddar cheese for pepper jack for an extra layer of spice, or add chopped jalapeños into the meat mixture. Vegetarians could experiment by using plant-based meat substitutes and dairy-free cheese, while still incorporating buffalo sauce and celery to keep the signature flavor.
Another delicious twist is turning the meatloaf into mini meatloaves or even meatloaf muffins for easy portion control and fun presentation. Leftovers can be transformed into hearty sandwiches with lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Conclusion:
Ellens Buffalo Meatloaf brings new life to a classic comfort food by marrying the beloved bold flavors of buffalo wings with the heartiness of traditional meatloaf. It’s a recipe that excites the palate with its spicy, tangy, and cheesy elements while remaining approachable and satisfying.
Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a game day gathering, or just craving a flavorful twist on a familiar favorite, this meatloaf delivers on all fronts. Its balance of heat and creaminess, texture and tenderness, makes it a standout dish worth adding to your recipe collection.