Can cornmeal be used in meatloaf?

Yes, cornmeal can be used in meatloaf! It's actually a pretty common ingredient, especially in Southern-style meatloaf. Here's why it works well:

* Texture: Cornmeal adds a bit of texture and crumbliness to the meatloaf. It can also help absorb some of the moisture, preventing the loaf from being too mushy.

* Flavor: Cornmeal has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor that complements the savory flavors of the meatloaf. It can also add a nice, rustic touch.

* Binding: Cornmeal can help bind the ingredients together, creating a more cohesive loaf.

Here's how to use it:

* Substitute: You can substitute some of the breadcrumbs in your meatloaf recipe with cornmeal. A good starting point is to replace 1/4 to 1/3 of the breadcrumbs with cornmeal.

* Mix it in: Add the cornmeal directly to your meatloaf mixture along with the other ingredients.

* Coat the loaf: You can also use cornmeal to coat the outside of the meatloaf before baking. This creates a crispy, golden crust.

Tip: If you're using a lot of cornmeal, you might need to add a little extra liquid to the mixture to keep it moist.

So, if you're looking to add some extra flavor and texture to your meatloaf, give cornmeal a try!