Are you craving a comforting, classic meal that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this American Test Kitchen Meatloaf recipe! This isn't your grandma's meatloaf – while embracing the familiar flavors we all love, we've elevated it with a few clever techniques to ensure a juicy, flavorful, and perfectly textured loaf every single time. Forget dry, crumbly disappointments; this recipe delivers the ultimate meatloaf experience, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe is a cornerstone of easy recipes and healthy meals, and it's guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 large onion, finely chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 cup finely crushed saltine crackers
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. This simple step adds incredible depth of flavor to your meatloaf.
Step 2: Combine the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, crushed crackers, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, oregano, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Gently mix everything together until just combined; avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf. Add the sautéed onion and garlic mixture to the bowl and stir to incorporate.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared pan and shape it into a loaf. Pour the beef broth into the bottom of the pan.
Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center registers 160°F (71°C). If the top of the meatloaf starts to brown too quickly, loosely tent it with foil.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.
Tips for the Best Meatloaf:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can lead to a tough loaf. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through.
- Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps retain its juices.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different glazes or toppings, such as barbecue sauce or brown sugar.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini into the meatloaf mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference, or add other spices like smoked paprika or chili powder.
- Make it cheesy: Add shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese to the meatloaf mixture for a cheesy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used, but a serving of this meatloaf will likely contain approximately:
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This American Test Kitchen-inspired meatloaf recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can easily create at home. It's a hearty, flavorful meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, making it a staple for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all skill levels. Enjoy!