Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a comforting, homemade meal that's both delicious and satisfying? Then look no further! This ground beef and pork meatloaf recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and offers a fantastic balance of juicy texture and rich flavor. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food, elevated!
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, lightly 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
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
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, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
Shape the meatloaf: Carefully transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, ensuring it's evenly distributed.
Top it off: Spread the remaining 1/2 cup of ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake to perfection: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). You can check the doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the loaf.
Rest and serve: Let the meatloaf 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, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
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 most accurate way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through.
- Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps retain its juices and ensures a more tender result.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different toppings, such as brown sugar, bacon bits, or a glaze.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Meatloaf: Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese blend for an extra layer of flavor.
- Veggie Meatloaf: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrients and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This easy recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy meals that can be made at home quickly. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful meatloaf! It’s perfect for quick dinner ideas and a great way to enjoy homemade cooking at its finest. This recipe is among the best recipes for a comforting and satisfying meal.