Craving a hearty, comforting meal that feels both nostalgic and incredibly delicious? Look no further than this elevated take on a classic comfort food: Martha Stewart's Meatloaf. This isn't your grandma's meatloaf (though she'd probably love it too!). We're talking juicy, flavorful ground beef, perfectly seasoned, and baked to golden perfection. This recipe is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering a delicious dish that's surprisingly easy to make. It's the ultimate quick dinner idea for busy weeknights, and it's healthy enough to feel good about serving your family. Get ready to experience meatloaf like never before!
Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors
This recipe uses readily available ingredients to create a truly exceptional meatloaf. Gather these before you begin:
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 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 brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for glazing)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Creating a Culinary Masterpiece
Follow these easy steps to recreate this easy recipe at home:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, sautéed onion and garlic mixture, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
- Shape the Loaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
- Glaze & Bake: Spread the remaining 1/2 cup of ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here!
- Rest & 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.
Cooking Tips for Meatloaf Perfection:
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture will make it tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This is crucial for ensuring the meatloaf is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking. A dash of cayenne pepper can add a nice kick!
- Add Veggies: For added nutrition and flavor, consider adding finely chopped carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to the meatloaf mixture.
Variations on a Classic:
- 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: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the meatloaf before baking.
- BBQ Meatloaf: Use your favorite BBQ sauce instead of ketchup for a smoky, tangy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
This recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this elevated classic and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills! It’s a surefire way to turn a simple weeknight dinner into a truly memorable experience. Happy cooking!