Meatloaf Recipe is one of those dishes that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. It’s simple to make, easy to enjoy, and perfect for feeding a hungry family. Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes or a side of green beans, meatloaf has a way of making everyone feel at home. In this article, we’ll share a delicious and easy-to-follow recipe for the ultimate meatloaf, packed with flavor and comfort. Let’s dive in!
What Makes a Great Meatloaf?
To make the best meatloaf, you need the right balance of ingredients. At its core, meatloaf is made from ground meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. The secret to a great meatloaf lies in choosing the right combination of meats (beef, pork, or even turkey) and ensuring the loaf stays moist and tender. Adding the perfect mix of spices and a delicious glaze on top can take your meatloaf to the next level.
The Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe
Here’s the recipe that combines all the classic flavors with some added tweaks to make your meatloaf stand out.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (choose beef with 80% lean content for flavor and juiciness)
- 1/2 lb ground pork (adds richness and extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (to help keep it tender)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup milk (to keep the loaf moist)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg (to bind the mixture together)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (for added savory flavor)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (for a slight tang)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (for a herby flavor)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano (adds a touch of Italian flavor)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (for a smoky depth)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for the topping glaze)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (adds sweetness to balance the flavors)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (for a bit of tang)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). You can either line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Add the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and milk. This combination will help keep the meatloaf juicy and soft.
- Cook the Onion and Garlic: In a small pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until they soften and smell fragrant (about 3-4 minutes). Let them cool for a moment before adding them to the meat mixture.
- Add Seasonings and Bind: Add the cooled onion and garlic, along with the egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the meat. Mix everything together, but be careful not to overmix or the loaf might become tough.
- Shape the Loaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, smoothing the top so it cooks evenly.
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Stir until smooth and well combined. Spread this glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake the Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). The glaze should be bubbly, and the meatloaf should be firm but tender.
- Rest Before Slicing: After baking, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes. This helps the juices stay in the loaf, keeping it moist and flavorful.
- Serve: Slice the meatloaf and serve it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips for the Best Meatloaf
- Mix Gently: When combining the meat mixture, be careful not to overmix. This can make the meatloaf dense and tough.
- Choose the Right Meat: For a juicier meatloaf, use meat with a bit of fat, like 80/20 ground beef. This ensures the loaf stays tender and full of flavor.
- Add Vegetables: You can experiment by adding grated vegetables, like carrots or zucchini, to the mixture. This will keep the meatloaf moist and add more nutrients.
- Let It Rest: Always let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps it hold together better and prevents it from falling apart when slicing.
Why This Meatloaf is Perfect for Comfort Food Lovers
This meatloaf recipe is the perfect blend of savory flavors and comforting textures. The combination of beef and pork gives it richness, while the breadcrumbs and milk keep it moist and tender. The homemade ketchup glaze adds a deliciously sweet and tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory loaf. Plus, it’s easy to make and is a great meal for any day of the week.
One of the best things about meatloaf is that it makes excellent leftovers. You can slice it thin for a sandwich or simply reheat it with some veggies. Either way, it’s just as good the next day.
Conclusion
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food for a reason. It’s filling, flavorful, and easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and some care in preparation, you can create a meatloaf that everyone will enjoy. Try this recipe the next time you want a hearty meal, and it will quickly become a family favorite.
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