Ladies and gentlemen, children of all ages, allow us to present one of the most comforting foods in the world; a food that says, "I love you," "Do you need a hug?" and, "Baby, it's cold outside," all at once; a food that's the opposite of trendy and the opposite of chic (except when it's being served at trendy and chic restaurants as a retro homage to the diner blue plate special). Step right up, folks: it's time for meatloaf.
 

Many of us forget about meatloaf for periods of time, and then rediscover it with renewed appreciation. Because while meatloaf is a classic dish, it's also incredibly flexible in terms of how you can make it. Yes, you can make it with meat...beef, pork, lamb, veal, or a combo of any of these. And of course there are the chicken and turkey varieties, very popular these days and not as rich. But there are also vegetarian versions, for those who crave the simple homeyness of a meatloaf, but want the loaf without the meat. And there are any number of ways to season and spice a meatloaf, making the variations nearly endless.
 

A big pile of fluffy mashed potatoes, maybe some green beans, and a slab of flavorful meatloaf. And if you haven't experienced a day-after meatloaf sandwich, then you are in for a revelation. Sexy? No, not so much. Satisfying? Yes, yes, yes.