Are you craving a hearty, comforting meal that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this McCormick's Meatloaf recipe! This classic dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a family gathering. Forget complicated recipes; this version uses readily available ingredients and simple techniques to deliver a juicy, flavorful meatloaf that will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to experience the ultimate homemade comfort food, elevated with the vibrant taste of McCormick spices.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon McCormick Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon McCormick brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon McCormick garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon McCormick onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon McCormick dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon McCormick black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon McCormick salt
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for glazing)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
Step 2: Adding the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, pepper, and salt.
Step 3: Combining and Shaping
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the ground beef mixture. Use your hands to gently combine everything until just mixed. Don't overmix! Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Step 4: Glazing and Baking
Spread the ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here to ensure it's cooked through.
Step 5: Resting and Serving
Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it 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 – mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad are all excellent choices.
Tips for the Perfect 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 ensures your meatloaf is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing prevents it from falling apart and keeps it juicy.
- Get creative with your glaze: Experiment with different glazes, such as BBQ sauce, brown sugar and mustard glaze, or even a balsamic glaze.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrients.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Use different meats: Try a combination of ground beef and pork, or even ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This McCormick's Meatloaf recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a classic comfort food. It's a perfect example of how simple ingredients and a few key spices can create a truly satisfying and flavorful meal. Enjoy!