Easy Caribbean Meatloaf Recipe You’ll Want to Make Again and Again

If you’re searching for a bold, flavorful twist on a classic dish, this Caribbean Meatloaf Recipe will completely transform your dinner routine. Unlike traditional meatloaf, which is often mild and comforting, Caribbean Meatloaf bursts with rich spices, sweet and tangy elements, and a robust glaze that pulls everything together.

Whether you’re exploring Caribbean cuisine for the first time or already love the sweet heat and vibrant flavor combinations, this meatloaf recipe is your go-to. The ingredients are simple, the preparation is easy, and the result is a juicy, mouthwatering loaf that balances sweet, spicy, and savory in every slice. It’s perfect for weeknight meals or meal prep and pairs beautifully with sides like honey glazed carrots and green beans or garlicky kale with white beans and lemon.

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What Makes Caribbean Meatloaf Unique?

At its heart, Caribbean Meatloaf is a flavorful mash-up of cultures and tastes. It’s deeply seasoned with Caribbean spices—think allspice, thyme, paprika, and Scotch bonnet or habanero peppers for heat—alongside a sweet ketchup or BBQ-based glaze that sometimes includes pineapple juice or brown sugar.

What sets it apart from other styles, like Hawaiian Meatloaf or Indian Meatloaf, is the powerful combination of spices and the cultural influence from the islands. It’s deeply comforting, yet surprisingly light and tropical in flavor.

Caribbean Meatloaf Ingredients List (with Measurements)

Here’s everything you’ll need to create one flavorful Caribbean-style meatloaf. This recipe serves 6.

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Scotch bonnet or habanero pepper (seeded and finely chopped)
• 2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and ground turkey)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon Caribbean jerk seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup ketchup
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon pineapple juice (optional)
• ½ teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

Looking for more sweet-savory dishes? You’ll also love our sweet chili meatballs or sticky honey gochujang chicken.

How To Make Caribbean Meatloaf Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions, bell pepper, garlic, and the chopped Scotch bonnet pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until vegetables are softened. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, jerk seasoning, thyme, allspice, brown sugar, eggs, ketchup, salt, pepper, and the sautéed vegetables. Mix everything together gently until well combined. Avoid overmixing.

Step 4: Shape and Bake
Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared loaf pan. Shape into a loaf and bake for 45 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, pineapple juice (if using), and hot sauce. Stir until smooth.

Step 6: Glaze and Finish Baking
After 45 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Brush the glaze generously over the top and return it to the oven for another 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 7: Let It Rest
Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This locks in the juices and ensures clean slices.

Want to explore more globally inspired dinners? Try this vegetarian pasta primavera next.

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Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Loaf pan or baking sheet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Spatula or spoon
• Knife and cutting board
• Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)

Tips for Perfect Caribbean Meatloaf

• Balance the heat: Adjust the Scotch bonnet pepper amount to your heat preference.
• Let the meatloaf rest: This prevents the juices from running out when you slice it.
• Make it ahead: You can prep the meatloaf and glaze separately, then assemble and bake the next day.
• Want it extra juicy? Use a mix of ground beef and ground turkey.
• No jerk seasoning on hand? Try combining paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne, thyme, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

For another creative dinner option, give our crockpot fajitas a try.

Serving Suggestions: What Goes with Caribbean Meatloaf?

This meatloaf is so flavorful that it pairs beautifully with simple and wholesome sides. Here are some serving ideas:

• Garlic herb roasted potatoes, carrots, and zucchini
• Pumpkin twists for a fun seasonal touch
• Cheesy root vegetable gratin for something rich and indulgent
• Creamy mushroom and spinach stuffed chicken if you’re doing a double protein meal
• Fresh mango salsa or a cucumber-lime salad

Want a dessert to balance the spice? Try these pumpkin cheesecake truffles.

How to Store and Reheat Caribbean Meatloaf

To Store:
Once cooled, transfer slices to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

To Freeze:
Wrap slices in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

To Reheat:

• Oven: Heat at 325°F, covered, for 15–20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat slices for 1–2 minutes, checking for even warmth.

Leftover slices can also be used in loaded breakfast hash or crumbled into a spicy sandwich.

Recipe Variations: From Indian Meatloaf to Meatloaf with Pineapple Sauce

Here are a few creative takes on this Caribbean Meatloaf recipe:

• Indian Meatloaf: Use curry powder, cumin, garam masala, and tomato paste instead of jerk spices.
• Hawaiian Meatloaf Recipes: Add crushed pineapple directly into the meat mixture and use a pineapple glaze.
• Sweet and Sour Meatloaf: Add vinegar and brown sugar to the glaze for a classic tangy finish.
• Spicy Caribbean Meatloaf: Add extra Scotch bonnet peppers or cayenne pepper for more heat.
• Vegetable-Heavy Option: Add grated carrots or zucchini for moisture and a veggie boost.

For more meat-forward dinners, check out this ground beef wellington or meatball parmesan casserole.

Sweet and Sour Meatloaf vs. Caribbean Meatloaf: What’s the Difference?

While both recipes use a sweet glaze and lean on contrasting flavors, Sweet and Sour Meatloaf tends to rely on vinegar and sugar for its punch, while Caribbean Meatloaf leans into spice and heat. You might find pineapple sauce or BBQ components in both, but the island-inspired version is far more robust in herbs and spice complexity.

If you like both profiles, consider blending the two: a sweet and sour glaze with Caribbean spices in the meat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Caribbean Meatloaf

• Skipping the sautéed veggies: Raw vegetables don’t develop as much flavor.
• Overmixing the meat: This can lead to a tough, dense texture.
• Not using breadcrumbs or a binder: The loaf won’t hold its shape.
• Skipping the rest time: Slicing too soon releases juices and makes it crumble.
• Underseasoning: Caribbean flavors should be bold and vibrant—don’t be shy!

Try this recipe with a side of sourdough discard tortillas for a unique serving approach.

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FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Caribbean Meatloaf

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, or even a 50/50 mix for a leaner option.

Is it spicy?
It can be! You can adjust the heat based on how much pepper you use.

Can I prep it ahead of time?
Absolutely—assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes. Swap breadcrumbs for gluten-free oats or almond flour.

Is it freezer-friendly?
Yes. Slice it and freeze for meal prep or quick dinners.

Why This Easy Caribbean Meatloaf Recipe Belongs in Your Dinner Rotation

This Caribbean Meatloaf Recipe is more than just dinner—it’s a flavor-packed experience. With bold spices, a delicious glaze, and a surprisingly easy prep, it’s the perfect weeknight meal to break free from bland. The glaze caramelizes beautifully, and the meat stays juicy and tender inside.

It’s adaptable, freezer-friendly, and guaranteed to impress—even picky eaters! Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or hosting friends, this is the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds.

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