Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This beef and pork meatloaf recipe is your answer. It's a classic for a reason – juicy, tender, and bursting with delicious homemade goodness. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe delivers a healthy and delicious meal the whole family will love. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food, elevated to new heights!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Meat Mixture
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef and ground pork. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
Step 2: Adding Flavor
Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture. Using your hands, gently mix everything until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat.
Step 3: Shaping the Meatloaf
Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan (approximately 9x5 inches). Shape it into a loaf, ensuring it's evenly distributed.
Step 4: Baking to Perfection
Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely tent it with foil.
Step 5: Resting and Serving
Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf. Serve with your favorite sides – mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad are all excellent choices.
Cooking Tips for the Best Meatloaf:
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing develops the gluten in the meat, resulting in a tough meatloaf. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps retain its juices and makes for a more tender final product.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add other spices or herbs to customize your meatloaf to your liking. A pinch of cayenne pepper adds a nice kick!
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese lover's meatloaf: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top before baking for a cheesy twist.
- Glazed meatloaf: Brush the top with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 15 minutes of baking for a delicious glaze.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 30-35g Fat: 20-25g Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This recipe provides a hearty and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy this easy recipe and the wonderful homemade flavors! Let us know in the comments how your meatloaf turned out!