Meatloaf: A Classic Comfort Food
Meatloaf is a quintessential American comfort food, loved for its hearty, flavorful profile and versatility. This oven-baked dish is a perfect weeknight dinner, but it can also be dressed up for special occasions. The key to a great meatloaf lies in the balance of ingredients and the careful mixing process.
Ingredients for Classic Meatloaf:
- 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can result in a tough meatloaf.
- Shape the loaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape into a loaf.
- Bake: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (70°C).
- Rest and serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for Juicy and Flavorful Meatloaf:
- Choose the right ground beef: Opt for ground beef with a higher fat content (like 80/20 or 85/15) for a juicier meatloaf.
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing can lead to a tough meatloaf. Mix just until combined.
- Add moisture: Breadcrumbs soaked in milk help keep the meatloaf moist.
- Experiment with flavors: Customize your meatloaf with different herbs, spices, and vegetables.
- Glaze it up: For extra flavor, brush the meatloaf with a mixture of ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Serving Suggestions:
Meatloaf pairs perfectly with classic comfort food sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, and cornbread. For a lighter option, serve it with a fresh salad and roasted vegetables.
Would you like to try a meatloaf recipe with a specific twist, such as adding vegetables or using different types of meat?