Meatloaf

Meatloaf

Introduction:
A timeless comfort food, Meatloaf is a dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table. This recipe features a perfectly seasoned ground beef mixture that’s baked to juicy perfection and topped with a delicious, tangy glaze. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, meatloaf is a versatile and hearty dish that’s easy to prepare.

Inspiration Behind Meatloaf:
Meatloaf has been a staple in American homes for generations, offering a budget-friendly and filling meal. This recipe is inspired by the classic version, with a few modern tweaks to ensure a moist, flavorful result every time.

Ingredients Breakdown:

  • For the Meatloaf:
    • 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
    • 1 cup breadcrumbs
    • 1 small onion (finely diced)
    • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
    • 1 egg (beaten)
    • ½ cup milk
    • 2 tablespoons ketchup
    • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
    • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • For the Glaze:
    • ¼ cup ketchup
    • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
    • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
    • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Step-by-Step Recipe:

  1. Preheat and Prepare the Ingredients:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment paper.
  2. Make the Meatloaf Mixture:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, diced onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
  3. Shape the Meatloaf:
    • Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide. Set aside while you prepare the glaze.
  4. Prepare the Glaze:
    • In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
  5. Bake:
    • Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Halfway through baking, brush the remaining glaze over the top for an extra layer of flavor.
  6. Rest and Serve:
    • Once the meatloaf is done, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meatloaf moist. Slice and serve with your favorite sides!

Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf:

  1. Use the Right Meat: An 80/20 blend of ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) ensures a juicy meatloaf without being too greasy.
  2. Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the ingredients to avoid a dense texture.
  3. Let it Rest: Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes after baking to lock in the juices.

Variations and Customizations:

  1. Cheesy Meatloaf: Add a layer of shredded cheese inside the meatloaf for a gooey surprise.
  2. Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf: Wrap the meatloaf in strips of bacon before baking for a smoky, savory twist.
  3. Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute ground turkey for a leaner version of this classic recipe.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value:

  • High in Protein: Meatloaf is packed with protein from the ground beef and egg.
  • Customizable: Use leaner meats like ground turkey or chicken to reduce fat content.
  • Low-Carb Option: Substitute breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly meatloaf.

FAQ:

Can I freeze meatloaf?
Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked meatloaf, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil, for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding about 15-20 minutes to the baking time.

Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, then bake when ready.

How long does meatloaf last in the fridge?
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Meatloaf

Meatloaf

This classic meatloaf recipe delivers a juicy, flavorful, and satisfying meal topped with a tangy glaze. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, it's a comfort food favorite.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 7
Calories 372 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup dried bread crumbs
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • ⅓ cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons prepared mustard

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  • Combine ground beef, onion, milk, bread crumbs, and egg in a large bowl; season with salt and pepper. Transfer into prepared loaf pan.
  • Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard together in a small bowl until well combined; pour over meatloaf and spread it evenly over the top.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until no longer pink in the center, about 1 hour.

Notes

Nutrition Facts
Total Fat 25g 32%
Saturated Fat 10g 50%
Cholesterol 98mg 33%
Sodium 335mg 15%
Total Carbohydrate 19g 7%
Dietary Fiber 1g 4%
Total Sugars 9g
Protein 18g 36%
Vitamin C 3mg 3%
Calcium 81mg 6%
Iron 2mg 13%
Potassium 343mg 7%
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