Mac Daddy's Cajun Venison Meatloaf

6 servings Prep: 15 m Cook: 50 m Total: 1 h 5 m Beginner
5.0/5 (2)
Mac Daddy's Cajun Venison Meatloaf
This is a semi-spicy Cajun meatloaf featuring ground venison, beef, and the holy trinity, seasoned with Everglade Seasonings (also known as Monkey Dust), crab boil, and cayenne pepper. It’s a wild game twist on a Southern comfort classic.

Ingredients

6 servings
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound ground venison
  • 1 cup bread crumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 tsp crab boil
  • 1/4 tsp liquid smoke
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp Everglades seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 cup Cajun Trinity (onions, bell peppers, celery)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a meatloaf pan.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients - the ground beef, ground venison, bread crumbs, egg, crab boil, liquid smoke, salt, Everglades seasoning, cayenne pepper, Cajun seasoning, minced garlic, and Cajun trinity. Mix until well blended.
  3. Put mixture in the greased meatloaf pan and compact meat firmly.
  4. Baste with Perfect Meatloaf Topping Sauce.
  5. Cook for about 50 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
  6. Serve with fresh homemade biscuits.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my venison meatloaf dry?

A: Venison is very lean, which is why this recipe combines it with ground beef. Make sure not to overcook - pull it out when it hits 160°F internal temperature. You can also add an extra egg or a splash of milk to the mixture for added moisture.

Q: Can I make this without the Everglades seasoning?

A: Yes, Everglades seasoning (Monkey Dust) is a blend of salt, garlic, onion, and spices. If you don't have it, substitute with 1/2 tsp of garlic powder mixed with a pinch of onion powder and a bit more Cajun seasoning.

Tips and Techniques

Don’t overmix the meat mixture - this can make the meatloaf dense and tough. Mix just until ingredients are evenly distributed. Also, let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes after baking before slicing to help it hold together better.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • ground venison: ground elk, ground bison, or additional ground beef
  • Everglades seasoning: garlic powder and onion powder
  • Cajun Trinity: 1/3 cup each diced onion, bell pepper, and celery

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowl
  • Meatloaf pan
  • Meat thermometer

Historical Context

In Cajun country, wild game like venison has always been a staple protein, and creative cooks have long worked it into traditional comfort food recipes. This meatloaf is a perfect example of adapting a classic American dish with Louisiana wild game and bold Cajun seasonings.