– For extra flavor, brush the top of the meatloaf with additional spicy ketchup or a mix of ketchup and brown sugar before baking.
### **Variations**
1. **Cheesy Meatloaf**:
– Add **½ cup shredded cheese** (like cheddar or mozzarella) to the mixture for a gooey, cheesy center.
2. **Vegetable-Packed Meatloaf**:
– Add finely chopped veggies like **carrots**, **zucchini**, or **bell peppers** for extra nutrition.
3. **Spicy Meatloaf**:
– Add **1 teaspoon chili powder**, **½ teaspoon cayenne pepper**, or **1 chopped jalapeño** for a spicy kick.
4. **Italian-Style Meatloaf**:
– Replace the ketchup with **tomato sauce** and add **1 teaspoon Italian seasoning** or **dried oregano**.
5. **Turkey or Chicken Meatloaf**:
– Substitute ground beef with **ground turkey** or **chicken** for a lighter option.
6. **Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf**:
– Wrap the meatloaf in **bacon slices** before baking for a smoky, crispy topping.
7. **Gluten-Free Meatloaf**:
– Use **gluten-free breadcrumbs** or **rolled oats** instead of regular breadcrumbs.
