Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Knorr Vegetable Soup Meatloaf recipe is a delicious twist on a classic, offering a hearty and satisfying dinner perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend. It combines the familiar comfort of meatloaf with the vibrant taste of Knorr Vegetable Soup, creating a unique dish your family will adore. This recipe is packed with flavor, surprisingly healthy, and incredibly easy to follow – making it a perfect addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed Knorr Vegetable Soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 pound ground beef (or a leaner ground beef/turkey blend)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan (approximately 9x5 inches) with cooking spray or butter. This simple step ensures easy removal of your perfectly baked meatloaf.
Mix the Magic: In a large bowl, combine the Knorr Vegetable Soup, milk, egg, bread crumbs, onion, ground beef, thyme, garlic powder, and black pepper. Gently mix everything until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
Shape and Bake: Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup and brown sugar (if using). Spread the ketchup mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Oven Time: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here – it ensures the meatloaf is cooked through and safe to eat.
Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for about 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, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad all pair perfectly.
Tips for Meatloaf Perfection:
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can make it tough. 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.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking. Add more garlic powder, pepper, or other herbs to suit your taste.
- Add Vegetables: For extra flavor and nutrition, consider adding finely chopped carrots, celery, or zucchini to the meatloaf mixture.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Meatloaf: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the meatloaf before baking.
- Herb-Infused Meatloaf: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, oregano, or parsley.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Knorr Vegetable Soup Meatloaf recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal that's both easy to prepare and packed with flavor. It's a perfect example of how homemade cooking can be quick, healthy, and incredibly rewarding. Enjoy!