Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Then look no further than this Knorr French Onion Meatloaf recipe! This twist on a classic comfort food elevates the humble meatloaf to new heights with the rich, savory depth of Knorr French Onion soup mix. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a truly delicious and impressive dish, ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (you can also use a blend of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup Knorr French Onion soup mix
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup ketchup (for glazing)
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Mix the meatloaf: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, Knorr French Onion soup mix, bread crumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
Shape the loaf: Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
Bake to perfection: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). During the last 15 minutes of baking, brush the top of the meatloaf with ketchup for a beautiful glaze and added flavor.
Rest and serve: Let the meatloaf 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, 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, leading to a tough texture. Gentle mixing is key!
- Use good quality ground beef: The flavor of your meatloaf will depend heavily on the quality of the ground beef you use.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure your loaf pan is appropriately sized to prevent the meatloaf from being too shallow and drying out during baking.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
Delicious Variations:
- Add some veggies: Incorporate finely diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers into the meatloaf mixture for added nutrients and flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Cheese please: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy finish.
- Different Breadcrumbs: Experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, such as panko breadcrumbs, for a crispier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This Knorr French Onion Meatloaf recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a simple, delicious, and satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of savory French onion soup mix and tender ground beef creates a truly unforgettable flavor profile. Enjoy!