Sadies Favorite Meat Loaf

In a medium-size saut pan, melt butter and add onions, carrot, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are soft. Remove from heat and cool. Preheat oven to 375 F.

In a large bowl, beat together eggs, ketchup, half-and-half, and the seasonings. Add beef, pork sausage, and bread crumbs. Knead together by hand until smooth. Add cooled vegetable mixture and blend thoroughly.

You can pack the meat mixture into a standard loaf pan (8 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 3 inches), or form a flatter shape and place in an oven-proof shallow baking dish. For maximum browned surface in baking. Use a dish that is at least 1 inch larger around than the meat loaf. That way you can easily lift the loaf out of the drippings to serve.

Bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until done (at least 155 F). About 10 minutes before the meatloaf is done, drain off grease and return to the oven.

Serves 6