Stranger Things Inspired Demogorgon Meatloaf

What’s Up, Hungry People

The new season of Stranger Things dropped this weekend on Netflix – and I’d be lying if I said I didn’t watch the entire season twice through already. Inspired by all things 80s themed and audio-synth tuned, I turned my kitchen Upsidedown by ripping a hole in spacetime and calling up some demogorgons.

If you aren’t caught up on both seasons of Stranger Things, be warned: there may be mild spoilers in this post!

The demogorgon, the main nemesis in the first season of Stranger Things, returns in season two more horrifying than ever—a wicked fast demogorgon-dog hybrid controlled by the oh-so-mysterious smoke monster.

But here’s the thing about the demogorgon—it’s entire face is a giant mouth, intent on devouring you. My meatloaf imitates the terrifying fanged mouth of the demogorgon, but this time, YOU get to bite back!

Onions act as the teeth of the demogorgon mouth and the whole thing is brushed with a classic, but extra spicy, ketchup sauce that looks eerily like blood…

Of course, what Stranger Things feast is complete without some Eggo waffles? I served mine up a la “chicken waffles” style and made a fun version of “demogorgon waffles” instead.

This season of Stranger Things was awesome and actually sets up a third (and probably more) seasons to come after. The gang has more to worry about than just demogorgons in the future.

I’m ready to binge-watch the entire series again and again until then—and dine on demogorgon to tide my appetite for the Upsidedown.

Here’s What You Need

• Ground turkey: Used as the base of the meatloaf, providing lean protein.
• Plain bread crumbs: Helps bind the ingredients, adding texture to the meatloaf.
• Garlic powder: Adds a robust, aromatic flavor to the meatloaf.
• Paprika: Offers a mild, sweet spice that colors the meatloaf beautifully.
• Red pepper flakes: Introduces a spicy kick to boost flavors.
• Fresh parsley: Adds fresh, herbal notes to balance the spicy elements.
• Egg: Acts as a binder, holding the meatloaf mixture together.
• Bacon: Adds a rich, smoky flavor and a crispy texture when cooked.
• Onion: Provides sweetness and a crunchy texture, mimicking demogorgon teeth.
• Sriracha ketchup: Creates a spicy, tangy sauce that resembles blood.
• Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the sauce’s flavor with umami richness.
• Maple syrup: Introduces a slight sweetness to counteract the heat of the sauce.

Let’s Cook

First things first, fire up your oven to 375°F. While that’s heating, grab a large bowl and throw in the ground turkey, bread crumbs, garlic powder, paprika, red pepper flakes, parsley, and that crucial egg. Mix it all together just until it’s combined—think of it like you’re gathering your squad in Hawkins. Once it’s all friendly, spread the mixture onto a greased, foil-lined baking sheet. Now, here’s the fun part: shape it into the “face” of a demogorgon.

Making the “Blood” Sauce

While your demogorgon face is chilling out, let’s get that eerie blood sauce ready. In another bowl, whisk together the sriracha ketchup (or your DIY mix of sriracha and ketchup), Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and maple syrup. This sauce is going to bring all the heat and sweet—just what our demogorgon needs.

Bringing the Demogorgon to Life

Now, take those bacon strips and lay them around the center of your meaty creation, marking out the demogorgon’s “petals” from its terrifying mouth. Give the whole meatloaf a good brushing with some of that spicy blood sauce you just mixed.

Next up, those onion pieces. Press them into the meatloaf where you imagine the teeth should be—make it as menacing as you can. Cover the meatloaf with foil and let it bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes.

The Final Transformation

After those 25 minutes are up, take off the foil and let it cook further. This is your chance to brush on the remaining sauce and let it bake uncovered for another 10 minutes. That’ll get the sauce nicely caramelized and the meat perfectly cooked.

Finally, use the foil to help push up the edges of the meatloaf to form the open mouth of the demogorgon. Now it looks like it’s ready to devour anything in its path!

Demogorgon Dining Tips

• Proper meatloaf mixing: Thoroughly mix your ingredients to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatloaf tough. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
• Bacon placement: Lay the bacon strips carefully to clearly define the demogorgon’s “mouth” from its “petals.” This not only adds flavor but also plays a crucial role in the final presentation of your meatloaf.
• Sauce application: Apply the sauce in two stages—before and after covering the meatloaf with foil. This ensures that the meatloaf is flavorful and moist, and it enhances the color to make it look more like the demogorgon’s ominous appearance.
• Checking doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, check the meatloaf at the 25-minute mark when you uncover it. The meatloaf should be nearly done, with just enough time left to caramelize the sauce without drying out the meat.
• Serving suggestion: Serve the meatloaf with Eggo waffles to keep up with the Stranger Things theme. This playful pairing is not only thematic but also delicious, offering a sweet and savory contrast to your spicy meatloaf.

So there you go, Hungry People! Just like that, we’ve turned a slice of the Upsidedown into a delectable demogorgon meatloaf that’s almost as captivating as watching Stranger Things itself. Each bite is a blast from the past, blending ’80s nostalgia with a dash of horror-fun. Whether you’re planning a Stranger Things marathon or just craving something uniquely delicious, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

So, whip up this fiendish feast, serve it with a side of Eggo waffles, and enjoy your trip to Hawkins, Indiana. Bon appétit, and watch out for those demogorgons—they bite back!