Meatloaf Recipe is the type of food that gives pleasure and comfort with each bite. It’s a nutritious, hearty food that tastes as good as it is simple to make. If you’re a pro cook or a novice in the kitchen, the recipe for meatloaf will make an incredibly delicious, juicy bread that everybody will enjoy. The combination of succulent meat, flavorful seasonings and a tasty glaze on the top makes this a great dinner option for the entire family. What’s more? It’s a dish that is easily customizable to your taste.
The charm of this meatloaf recipe is in its simple recipe. You don’t have to invest long hours in the kitchen to prepare a tasty meal that will please everyone. With only a handful of ingredients and a few ingredients, you can have a delicious and soft piece of meat that’s ready in a short time. It’s also delicious with mashed potatoes and a salad or even an oozing loaf of bread. We guarantee that once you’ve tried this simple meatloaf recipe, it’ll quickly become a regular staple for your daily menu.
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What is Meatloaf Recipe?
Have you ever wondered where the term “meatloaf” comes from? This is an American classic that’s been a staple in home kitchens for many generations. The name is literal–“meat” to refer to the protein source, as well as “loaf” for the shape it acquires as it cooks. It’s a dish that symbolizes love and comfort in a way that reminds us that the path to a man’s heart is usually through his stomach!
When it comes to traditional comfort food, the Meatloaf Recipe is among the top choices. However, just because it’s a classic does not mean it must be boring. The meatloaf here is tasty and flavorful. It can make you question why you opted for store-bought versions. If you’re looking for an easy but satisfying meal, then meatloaf is the ideal choice. Give it a go, and you’ll be able to see why it’s one of the most loved dishes.
Why You’ll Love This Meatloaf Recipe
Main Highlights
One of the most notable aspects of this recipe for Meatloaf Recipe is how tender and juicy it is. It’s all about finding an appropriate amount of spice and the right proportion of meat. This simple meatloaf recipe makes use of ground beef and a bit of pork to add moisture. The result is the perfect loaf that remains moist throughout baking. The meat is perfectly spiced, and the glaze that is placed over it gives it the perfect, flavorful and beautiful end. It’s a delicious meatloaf that’s sure to make you the centre of attention at your dining table.
Cost-Saving Benefits
Making Meatloaf Recipe at home is an excellent option. You can save some money. Why pay for a store-bought version when you can make an affordable version at home? With a few items, it is possible to prepare an entire batch of this hearty meal that can feed your whole family. And leftovers are equally delicious the following day. This makes it an excellent choice for meal preparation and for those evenings when you don’t need to spend too many hours in your kitchen.
Flavorful Toppings and Customizations
The great thing about this recipe for Meatloaf Recipe is that it’s very adaptable. You can easily alter the seasonings according to your preferences. Are you looking for some spice? Try adding chilli flakes as well as hot sauce. For those who prefer a traditional taste, stick with conventional ingredients like garlic, onions, and a little Worcestershire sauce. It is possible to serve it with your favourite BBQ or ketchup sauce to give it an apricot and tangy flavour. There are no limits when it comes to personalizing this recipe!
How to Make Meatloaf Recipe
Quick Overview
This recipe for Meatloaf Recipe is easy to follow and requires only a couple of steps. Start by mixing your ingredients in one large dish before creating an oval shape, then bake it until golden brown. This is a straightforward recipe that doesn’t need lots of time for preparation; however, the final product is a dish bursting with flavour and is guaranteed to delight.
Key Ingredients
Ingredient List
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (for the meat mixture)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Visual Ingredients Image
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Meat and Seasonings
Begin by putting the ground pork and ground ground beef into a mixing bowl large enough to hold. Include onions finely chopped, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, ketchup, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and. Mix all ingredients until thoroughly well combined. Be cautious not to overwork the meat, as this could result in the loaf becoming tough.
Step 2: Shape the Meatloaf
After your ingredients have been mixed and incorporated, place the mix in an oil-sprayed loaf pan. Form your loaf into an oval shape to ensure that it’s evenly dispersed. It is also possible to form the meatloaf with your hands and then place the meatloaf on top of a baking pan for those who prefer a crisp crust on the sides.
Step 3: Bake the Meatloaf
The oven should be heated to 350degF (190degC). Place Meatloaf Recipe into the oven to bake for approximately 1 hour and until its internal temperature has reached 160degF (71degC). In the final 10-minute baking, you can serve the meatloaf with additional ketchup and BBQ sauce to add flavourful zing.
What to Serve With Meatloaf Recipe
Meatloaf Recipe is delicious with traditional sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted veggies or even an easy salad. If you’re looking to make a cosy and filling meal, mashed potatoes are the best way to take them. It can be served with a side dish of steaming vegetables or broccoli to counterbalance the meatloaf’s richness. If you want to drink a refreshing glass of red wine or cold beer, it can be a perfect match for the delicious flavours.
Top Tips for Perfecting Meatloaf
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re trying to create an alternative that is healthier than this meatloaf, consider substituting ground beef with lean poultry or turkey. It is also possible to replace breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or oatmeal for a different taste. Don’t be afraid to play by adding a sprinkling of basil or thyme, which can alter the flavour profile in interesting ways.
Timing Adjustments
Make sure you keep in mind the time of cooking. Each oven is unique, and you should be sure to check the temperature inside the Meatloaf Recipe to ensure it’s cooked to perfection. If you prefer your meatloaf with a crisper crust, bake it for an additional 15 to 20 minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A common mistake made in making Meatloaf Recipe is mixing too much of the meat and vegetable mixture. This can result in the loaf becoming stiff and stiff. Make sure you mix the ingredients in order to keep the texture of the meat. Another error is not allowing the meatloaf time to rest before cutting. Allowing it to rest for 10 minutes following baking will ensure that all the juices have been evenly distributed and make the meatloaf more delicious.
Storing and Reheating Tips
How to Store
To store your meatloaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge. If you want to freeze the meatloaf, slice it into individual portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap before storing in an airtight container or freezer bag.
How to Reheat
To reheat your meatloaf, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave for a quicker option.
Health Benefits of Meatloaf recipe
Nutritional Value Table
| Ingredient | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbohydrates | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 250 | 20g | 20g | 0g | 0g |
| Ground Pork | 300 | 25g | 22g | 0g | 0g |
| Breadcrumbs | 70 | 2g | 1g | 14g | 1g |
| Onion | 40 | 1g | 0g | 9g | 2g |
Why These Ingredients Are Good for You
The mixture of ground meat and pork in this meatloaf is the perfect source of protein as well as essential vitamins. Breadcrumbs add a small amount of fibre, while the onion provides antioxidants and aids in digestion. This is a balanced choice that is packed with nutrients to fuel a full-on dinner.
From DelishDish!
Meatloaf: How to Make a Juicy and Delicious Meal
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Loaf pan (or baking sheet if preferred)
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Knife and chopping board
- Oven
- Meat thermometer (optional, but recommended for perfect results)
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons ketchup for the meat mixture
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the meat mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until everything is fully combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
- Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the mixture into a greased loaf pan or shape it by hand and place it on a baking sheet. Make sure it’s evenly distributed and shaped.
- Bake the meatloaf: Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). In the last 10 minutes of baking, you can brush the meatloaf with additional ketchup or BBQ sauce for an extra glaze.
- Rest and serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices. Slice and serve with your favorite sides.
Notes
Conclusion:
In the end, this recipe for meatloaf is a perfect blend of taste and simplicity, which makes it an excellent food for all occasions. The soft, juicy texture paired with savoury seasonings makes for a dish that everyone will enjoy. If you’re cooking to feed your guests or host an event, the meatloaf is sure to impress and please. The most significant part is that it’s fast and straightforward to cook and allows you to enjoy an excellent meal without having to spend long hours at the stove.
Additionally, the versatility of this recipe makes it possible to make endless modifications. You can modify your ingredients as well as the toppings according to your individual preferences, ensuring that every meal is distinctive, from adding more spices to incorporating healthy ingredients. This recipe provides the ability to cater to various tastes and nutritional requirements. This is also an affordable choice that is extremely valuable for money, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings or meal preparation for the coming week.
Don’t forget that meatloaf is a traditional comfort food that will never go out of fashion. It’s hearty and satisfying, and it’s an ideal meal that connects people. We hope that this recipe has encouraged you to give it a go and make your meatloaf. Make sure you comment on your experiences, any modifications you came up with and the results of your meatloaf. Enjoy cooking with joy, and savour this delicious, juicy meal!
FAQs: best meatloaf recipe
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best meat for meatloaf?
The best meat for meatloaf is a combination of ground beef and ground pork. This combination gives the meatloaf a juicy, flavorful texture. You can also use lean ground turkey or chicken for a healthier option.
How long should I bake meatloaf?
Bake your meatloaf at 375°F (190°C) for about 1 hour, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). This ensures it’s fully cooked and juicy.
Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and refrigerate it up to 24 hours before baking. You can also bake and store leftovers for up to 3-4 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months.
How do I make meatloaf moist?
To make your meatloaf moist, use a combination of ground beef and pork, and add moisture-rich ingredients like milk and breadcrumbs. Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to prevent a tough loaf.
What can I serve with meatloaf?
Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even a side of steamed broccoli for a well-rounded meal.
Share Your Twist!
We’d love to know how you’ve made this recipe personal! Did you include a unique ingredient or experiment with a new topping? Maybe you changed the ground beef to something tastier or added a kick of spice to the sauce. Whatever you decide to do, sharing your ideas with others can encourage others to explore different flavours and combinations. Comment below and let us know what you did to make this meatloaf special to your liking. Let’s keep it evolving by adding a delicious twist one at a time!
