Are you craving that juicy, flavorful meatloaf you remember from Golden Corral? Well, stop craving and start cooking! This recipe recreates that iconic comfort food, bringing the restaurant experience right to your kitchen. It's easier than you think to make this delicious, family-friendly meal from scratch. Forget takeout – this homemade version is packed with flavor and far healthier than anything you'll find pre-made. Get ready to impress your family with this easy, quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- ½ pound ground pork
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- ½ cup milk
- 1 large egg, beaten
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef and ground pork. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic.
Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Combine and Shape
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the meat mixture. Add the breadcrumbs and gently mix until just combined. Do not overmix. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a lightly greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). For extra browning, you can broil the meatloaf for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch it carefully to avoid burning.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
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.
Tips for Meatloaf Success:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the meat mixture will make the meatloaf tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use good quality ground meat: The flavor of your meatloaf will be directly affected by the quality of the ground meat you use.
- Check the internal temperature: Using a meat thermometer ensures your meatloaf is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps to retain its juices and makes it more tender.
Variations:
- Add some vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers into the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrients.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Change up the glaze: Experiment with different glazes, such as BBQ sauce or a maple-mustard glaze.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This Golden Corral copycat meatloaf recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to your preferences, making it a true staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. Enjoy!