If you're looking for a delightful, home-cooked meal that both kids and adults will enjoy, then a Cuisinart Toaster Oven meatloaf recipe is the perfect choice. With its sleek design and multi-functionality, the Cuisinart Toaster Oven isn't just for reheating leftovers or toasting bread. It's also incredibly handy for baking comfort foods like a hearty meatloaf. Here's how you can make a mouth-watering meatloaf that's tender, flavorful, and just the right size for your Cuisinart Toaster Oven.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably 85/15 for a good balance of fat to meat)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs or panko
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your Cuisinart Toaster Oven to 350°F (175°C). This smaller appliance heats up more quickly than a conventional oven, so keep an eye on the preheating time.
2. Prepare the Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread crumbs and milk. Allow it to sit for a few minutes so the crumbs soak up the milk.
- Add the ground beef, chopped onions, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper into the bowl.
- Gently mix everything together using your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.
🔔 Note: For a tender meatloaf, don’t overwork the meat. Mix just until combined.
3. Shape the Meatloaf
- Transfer the meat mixture into an 8x4 inch loaf pan, which fits nicely in the Cuisinart Toaster Oven. Alternatively, shape it into a loaf directly on a lined baking tray if you prefer not to use a loaf pan.
4. Topping
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ketchup | 2 tablespoons |
| Brown Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Mustard (optional) | 1 teaspoon |
- Mix these topping ingredients together in a small bowl.
- Spread evenly over the top of the meatloaf before baking.
5. Bake
- Place the loaf pan or tray in the preheated Cuisinart Toaster Oven.
- Bake for about 40-45 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
6. Serve
- Slice into generous portions. Meatloaf is traditionally served with mashed potatoes and vegetables, but feel free to experiment with your favorite sides.
In this wrap-up, you’ve learned not only how to make a delectable meatloaf using your Cuisinart Toaster Oven but also some handy tips on achieving the perfect texture and flavor. With its efficient cooking capacity, your toaster oven provides a convenient way to bake this comfort food without heating up your entire kitchen. Enjoy this classic dish with friends or family, and experience the joys of homemade meals.
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
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Absolutely! Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef. Just be aware that white meat will yield a different texture and might need additional moisture like grated vegetables or extra broth.
How do I know when my meatloaf is cooked?
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The meatloaf is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the center of the loaf.
Can I freeze meatloaf made in the toaster oven?
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Yes, you can! Once cooled, slice the meatloaf, wrap individual portions, and freeze. They can be reheated later for a quick meal.
