Ingredients

• 2 whole bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon white pepper
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¾ cup finely chopped onion
• ½ cup finely chopped celery
• ½ cup finely chopped green bell pepper
• ¼ cup finely chopped green onion
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon Tabasco sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ cup evaporated milk
• ½ cup ketchup
• 1 ½ lbs ground beef
• ½ lb ground pork
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup fine dry breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Prepare the seasoning mix: Combine the bay leaves, salt, cayenne, black pepper, white pepper, cumin, and nutmeg in a small bowl. Set aside.

2. Cook the vegetables: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, bell pepper, green onion, garlic, Tabasco, Worcestershire sauce, and seasoning mix. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 6 minutes , scraping the bottom of the pan as needed, until the mixture begins to stick.

3. Add milk and ketchup: Stir in the evaporated milk and ketchup. Continue cooking for 2 more minutes , then remove from heat. Cool to room temperature and discard the bay leaves.

4. Mix the meatloaf: Place the ground beef and pork in a large baking dish (9x13 inch). Add the eggs, cooled vegetable mixture, and breadcrumbs. Mix by hand until thoroughly combined.

5. Shape and bake: Shape the mixture into a loaf in the center of the pan, about 1 ½ inches high, 6 inches wide, and 12 inches long . Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes . Increase the oven temperature to 400°F and bake for an additional 35 minutes , or until fully cooked.

6. Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve as is or with a spicy Cajun sauce for extra heat.