There's something profoundly comforting about a meatloaf dinner. Ultimate Meatloaf isn't just another dish; it's a testament to the magic that happens when simple, wholesome ingredients are combined with culinary love. Whether you're feeding a family, looking to impress dinner guests, or wanting to indulge in some nostalgic comfort food, this recipe promises a juicy, delicious, and, above all, simple-to-make meatloaf that will become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Here's how to make it.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the making of this culinary delight, let’s gather our ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80⁄20 for that perfect fat ratio)
- 1⁄2 lb ground pork
- 1⁄2 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp thyme (fresh or dried)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1⁄2 tsp black pepper
- Ketchup or BBQ sauce for glazing (optional)
🍖 Note: While the 80⁄20 beef is recommended for fat content, if you’re watching your calories, you could use leaner ground beef but be aware the meatloaf might be slightly less moist.
Preparation
Follow these steps for the perfect meatloaf:
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Soak Breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, combine milk with breadcrumbs, letting them soak for about 5 minutes. This will make the loaf tender.
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and pork with the soaked breadcrumbs.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Using clean hands or a wooden spoon, gently mix until all ingredients are evenly combined. Avoid overworking the meat to keep the loaf from becoming tough.
- Form the Loaf: Place the mixture into a loaf pan or shape it freeform on a baking sheet. If using a loaf pan, line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Glaze (Optional): If you like a glazed top, mix some ketchup or BBQ sauce with a bit of brown sugar and spread it over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (72°C).
🕒 Note: Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking the meatloaf around the 50-minute mark. If it's browning too quickly, cover with aluminum foil for the remainder of the cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
Once your meatloaf is out of the oven, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices. Here are some serving ideas:
- Classic: Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans.
- Adventurous: Try it with a side of roasted root vegetables and a dollop of horseradish cream.
- Comforting: Accompany with macaroni and cheese for a nostalgic meal.
Conclusion
This ultimate meatloaf recipe embodies simplicity at its best. It doesn’t just provide a meal; it delivers an experience steeped in tradition and comfort. By using straightforward ingredients and techniques, you can achieve a result that’s moist, flavorful, and satisfyingly familiar. Whether for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this meatloaf recipe will not only nourish but also delight your family and guests with its comforting appeal.
Can I make meatloaf in advance?
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Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance and refrigerate it. Just form it into a loaf, cover, and store in the fridge. Bake as directed when you’re ready to eat.
What if my meatloaf is too dry?
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Ensure you’re using the right meat-to-binder ratio. If the loaf is still too dry, try adding some tomato sauce or beef broth to the mix or simply glaze it with additional ketchup before serving to add moisture.
How can I make this meatloaf healthier?
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Opt for leaner meat like ground turkey or chicken, reduce breadcrumbs, and use less salt. Add veggies like finely chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to increase nutrition without compromising flavor.
