Ellen’s Buffalo Meatloaf

This Buffalo Meatloaf is a vibrant twist on the classic, combining the bold heat of buffalo wing sauce with creamy blue cheese and mozzarella for a wonderfully balanced flavor profile. The rich, juicy meat paired with the spicy tang creates an irresistible dish that satisfies both comfort food cravings and heat lovers alike.

Perfect for game days, casual dinners, or any time you want to impress with a simple yet exciting meal, this meatloaf is easy to prepare but packs a punch. Serve with a side of ranch or celery sticks for a complete buffalo-inspired feast that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Full Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds ground beef

• 1 cup Italian-style bread crumbs

• 1/2 cup chopped onion

• 2 eggs

• 1/3 cup hot wing sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese

• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, chopped onion, eggs, hot wing sauce, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined but do not overmix.

3. Fold in the blue cheese and mozzarella cheese gently to distribute evenly throughout the mixture.

4. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a lightly greased 9×5-inch loaf pan or on a baking sheet.

5. Bake uncovered for 1 hour, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

6. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with extra hot wing sauce or ranch dressing if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings

Brief History

Ellen’s Buffalo Meatloaf is a mouthwatering twist on the traditional meatloaf recipe that infuses the bold, spicy flavors of Buffalo wings into a classic comfort dish. Meatloaf has long been a staple in American kitchens beloved for its hearty, satisfying qualities and versatility. However, Ellen’s version elevates the dish by introducing the iconic tang and heat of Buffalo sauce, combined with the creamy richness of blue cheese and mozzarella. This clever combination brings a delicious balance of spicy, tangy, and savory flavors that make the meatloaf irresistibly flavorful and far from ordinary.

The Inspiration Behind Buffalo Meatloaf

Buffalo wings, originating in Buffalo, New York, have been a favorite for decades due to their unique spicy flavor, typically made with cayenne pepper hot sauce, butter, and vinegar. Ellen’s Buffalo Meatloaf takes this beloved sauce and incorporates it directly into the meat mixture, turning the fiery, finger-licking-good essence of Buffalo wings into a cozy, oven-baked loaf. Adding blue cheese, which is the traditional dipping sauce for Buffalo wings, inside the meatloaf creates pockets of creamy, tangy goodness that beautifully counterbalance the heat.

This approach transforms meatloaf from a dense, sometimes predictable dish into something exciting and dynamic, appealing especially to those who love bold flavors but want the comfort of a home-cooked meal.

Flavor Profile and Texture

The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the buffalo sauce, which delivers a sharp, piquant heat that awakens the palate. Unlike the usual ketchup or tomato-based toppings found on meatloaf, the buffalo sauce’s vinegar-based tang cuts through the richness of the ground beef, adding brightness and depth. The blue cheese adds complexity, lending a creamy, pungent contrast that melts into the meat while baking.

Mozzarella cheese, more mild and melty, provides a smooth texture that ties everything together. The bread crumbs help maintain the perfect moisture balance, ensuring the meatloaf remains tender and juicy instead of dry or crumbly. The garlic powder and Worcestershire sauce contribute subtle layers of umami and savory notes, enhancing the overall flavor without overpowering the buffalo influence.

The result is a beautifully textured meatloaf that is simultaneously moist, cheesy, spicy, and deeply satisfying a dish that pleases both comfort food enthusiasts and spice lovers.

Versatility in Serving and Pairing

One of the best aspects of Ellen’s Buffalo Meatloaf is its versatility. It can easily be the centerpiece of a casual family dinner, a game-day feast, or even a potluck gathering. The spicy, bold flavor pairs well with many classic sides like celery sticks, carrot sticks, coleslaw, or a simple green salad to balance the heat.

For starch options, creamy mashed potatoes or buttery corn on the cob complement the fiery loaf perfectly. You can also serve it with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side to mellow the spice and add extra creaminess. Some might enjoy it with crusty bread or even in sandwiches made from leftovers, with crisp lettuce and tomato.

It’s a flexible dish that invites creativity feel free to swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner version. The buffalo sauce intensity can also be adjusted based on your spice tolerance, making it family-friendly while still exciting for those who crave heat.

Tips for Making the Perfect Buffalo Meatloaf

When preparing Ellen’s Buffalo Meatloaf, a few tips can ensure the best results:

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense meatloaf.

• Use Fresh Bread Crumbs: Fresh or homemade bread crumbs help keep the loaf tender and add better texture compared to dry, store-bought versions.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes after baking helps juices redistribute, making the slices more moist and easier to cut.

• Adjust Heat Levels: If you prefer milder dishes, start with less buffalo sauce and increase it gradually. Alternatively, for those who love maximum heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the meat mixture.

• Cheese Options: Blue cheese provides the signature tang, but you can experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique twist.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Ellen’s Buffalo Meatloaf is a recipe that brings excitement back to meatloaf a dish some might consider old-fashioned or bland. It bridges the gap between classic American comfort food and the spicy, bold flavors beloved by contemporary palates. It’s approachable, easy to prepare, and customizable, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

The combination of cheeses ensures that the loaf is not just spicy but also creamy and indulgent. The use of buffalo wing sauce inside the meat mixture (not just as a topping) is a clever innovation that keeps every bite bursting with flavor. This recipe invites cooks of all skill levels to experiment with bold tastes without sacrificing the warmth and nostalgia that meatloaf brings to the dinner table.

Conclusion:

Incorporating the iconic flavors of Buffalo wings into a traditional meatloaf creates a dish that’s vibrant, satisfying, and uniquely comforting. Ellen’s Buffalo Meatloaf stands out for its perfect balance of spicy heat, creamy cheese, and tender beef, transforming a classic recipe into a modern favorite. Whether you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinners or impress guests with something unexpected, this meatloaf offers a bold yet comforting experience that appeals to all ages.

Try it with your favorite sides or enjoy leftovers as a hearty sandwich the next day. It’s a recipe that proves comfort food can be exciting, flavorful, and fun making Ellen’s Buffalo Meatloaf a fantastic addition to your recipe collection.