Mad About Food: Simply stuffed

Well, well, well, look what we have done. We’ve made it to 2023. New beginnings, another year to focus on the new, embellish on the old and sustain the present.

I hope everyone had a great New Year’s celebration, and if not, this article features a pretty good way to create a smile or two for all who try this recipe. It’s my version of Stuffed Meatloaf Hoagie Burgers.

My mother loves beef. I learned that at a very young age. She has to have it well done though and that’s where we part ways -- except when it comes to burgers and meatloaf. I have to have my steaks cooked or grilled medium, where she cannot stand to see a speck of pink in her’s.

Growing up, my mom used to make meatloaf and because she likes her beef so well done and doused in barbecue sauce I was never really a fan. I try to spoil my mom with my cooking because she loves it so much, so I came up with my own recipe that is a happy medium for both my mom and the rest of my family can enjoy. This recipe can be pan fried, baked or grilled. It is even air fryer friendly if you prefer that method.

Keeping in my own fashion of recipes, this Stuffed Meatloaf Hoagie Burger recipe is versatile, and it holds up well, so if you are tailgating, traveling or simply entertaining at home, these burgers still will be a hit. You can freeze these burgers either fresh or cooked and they will still come out amazing. I stuffed the meatloaf burgers with mozzarella, Colby Jack, mushrooms and spinach.

This time I chose to combine ground beef with ground turkey Italian sausage. The flavor combinations will wow your palate. If you want, you can stuff the burger with prosciutto, onion rings, artichoke hearts and just about any meat, cheese, vegetable or fruit you’d like. You can even wrap them in bacon. The possibilities are endless.

I first made a simple version of this burger combining ground beef, seasonings, chopped onion and bell pepper with a slice of American cheese in the middle. It was my mom’s favorite. I had to make that burger for her so much that I banned it for a while. But I figured after all the holiday food we just devoured, bringing back the Stuffed Meatloaf Hoagie Burger would be a greatly appreciated change of pace. If you have the patience, you could make sliders or meatballs too. You could even just make it as a meatloaf. Don’t limit yourself, just have fun.

This recipe is great for potlucks, tailgating, Saturday night dinner or whenever. You don’t have to be an expert to cook. You just have to have a willingness to explore, grow and try. I’m sure you are all excited to try your hand at Stuffed Meatloaf Hoagie Burgers, so let’s roll up our sleeves, wash our hands and get started creating your very own version.