Are you craving a hearty, delicious meal that’s both comforting and satisfying? Look no further than this classic Hunt's Meatloaf recipe! This isn't your grandma's meatloaf (unless your grandma was a culinary genius!). We’ve taken the traditional recipe and given it a few modern twists to create a moist, flavorful meatloaf that the whole family will love. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner, a casual weekend gathering, or even a potluck. This easy recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, resulting in a truly delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 cup Hunt's Tomato Ketchup
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic in a little olive oil over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes. This step adds a depth of flavor that you won't get otherwise. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooled onion and garlic mixture with the ground beef, ground pork, Hunt's ketchup, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and parsley (if using). Gently mix everything together until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf
Shape the meatloaf mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Step 4: Bake
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 juicy results, you can tent the meatloaf loosely with foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 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, green beans, or a simple salad are all excellent choices.
Tips for the Best Hunt's Meatloaf:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can result in a tough meatloaf. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use good quality ground meat: The quality of your ground meat will directly impact the flavor of your meatloaf. Choose a blend of ground beef and pork for optimal moisture and flavor.
- Check the internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked through to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps to keep it moist and prevents it from falling apart.
Variations:
- Add some cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the meatloaf before baking for extra flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture for a spicier kick.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers into the meatloaf mixture 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 Hunt's meatloaf recipe is a surefire winner. It's a simple, healthy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. Enjoy!