TV Dinner

Sometimes cooking reinforces important life lessons like 'don't judge a book by its cover'.  While judging may be a favorite pastime for some of you, those of us who try not to reap the benefits like the meatloaf meal you see above... In fact, it may be my new favorite weeknight dinner of all time.

The meal:

"Beefed up" Meatloaf with Roasted Brussel Sprouts and Whole Wheat Mac n' Cheese:

Meatloaf:

Serves 2

1 lb of ground round beef

1/2 cup of bread crumbs

1 egg

1/4 cup milk

2-3 tbsp ketchup

1/4 cup sugar (secret ingredient)

3/4 tbsp prepared horseradish-I used white

3/4 tbsp worcestershire sauce

1 package lipton onion soup mix

Mix ingredients and shape into a loaf.  Bake at 350 for 50 minutes (or until an internal thermometer registers between 160-165 degrees).  Let it sit for about 5 minutes before slicing. 

Brussel Sprouts:

3/4 lbs brussel sprouts

2 tbsp olive oil

kosher salt/pepper

Cut off the ends of the sprouts and remove any yellow outer leaves.  Mix with olive oil/salt/pepper and bake along with the meatloaf for 35-40 minutes (until brown and crisp).

Whole Wheat Mac n' Cheese: (can be purchased at most supermarkets)

Prepare as packaged.  Use 2 tbsp butter and skim milk.  Sprinkle with fresh parmesan.

Place it all on a plate, sit on the couch, and enjoy.  Last night I enjoyed this while watching Glee (perfect night if you ask me).

PC: Cooks.com (Jamie Warnick),