Halloween Bloody Baked Rats

Ingredients and Weight:

• Ground beef (80/20): 1 pound
• Breadcrumbs (panko): 1/2 cup
• Egg: 1 large
• Onion (finely chopped): 1/2 cup
• Garlic (minced): 2 cloves
• Worcestershire sauce: 2 tablespoons
• Dijon mustard: 1 tablespoon
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Marinara sauce: 1 cup
• Mozzarella cheese (shredded): 1/2 cup
• Cheddar cheese (shredded): 1/2 cup

Preparation Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

30-35 minutes

Difficulty Level:

3/5

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well until just combined.
3. Form the meat mixture into 8 oval-shaped "rats."
4. Spread the marinara sauce into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
5. Place the "rats" on the sauce and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the "rats" and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Nutritional Information:

Per serving:

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 25 grams
• Saturated Fat: 10 grams
• Cholesterol: 120 milligrams
• Sodium: 750 milligrams
• Carbohydrates: 25 grams
• Protein: 30 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Savory and flavorful
• Moist and juicy
• Perfect for Halloween parties
• Themed around classic beef meatloaf
• Easy to prepare and serve

User Comments:

• "These Halloween Bloody Baked Rats were a hit at my Halloween party! They were so easy to make and everyone loved them."
• "These 'rats' were the perfect blend of spooky and delicious. The marinara sauce and melted cheese added a great flavor combination."
• "My kids absolutely adored these 'rats'! They were so excited to eat them and they didn't even realize they were made with healthy ground beef."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use a lean ground beef (80/20 or 90/10) for better flavor and texture.
• Do not overmix the meat mixture, as this can make the "rats" tough.
• Let the "rats" rest for a few minutes before serving, as this will help them hold their shape.
• Serve with additional marinara sauce for dipping.