Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a hearty, flavorful meal that’s both comforting and satisfying? Then look no further! This Meals And Munchies Meatloaf recipe is your answer. We're taking a classic comfort food and giving it a delicious, modern twist, making it a perfect addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, impressing guests, or simply enjoying a delicious homemade meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- ½ lb ground pork
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispness)
- ½ cup milk
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Meat Mixture
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef and ground pork. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatloaf tough. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until just combined.
Step 2: Shape and Bake
Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan.
Step 3: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Pour this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely tent it with foil.
Step 5: 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.
Tips for Meatloaf Mastery:
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing develops gluten, leading to a tough meatloaf. Gently combine the ingredients until just incorporated.
- Use quality ingredients: The flavor of your meatloaf will be directly influenced by the quality of your ingredients. Opt for good quality ground meats and fresh herbs.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked through to the center. This guarantees food safety and prevents undercooked meat.
- Get creative with the glaze: Experiment with different glazes! Try BBQ sauce, a sweet chili glaze, or even a balsamic glaze for a unique twist.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers into the meat mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños for a spicier kick.
- Make it cheesy: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella over the top before baking for a cheesy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This Meals And Munchies Meatloaf recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can create with simple ingredients and minimal effort. It's a perfect healthy meal option for the whole family, a crowd-pleasing addition to your next get-together, and a testament to the power of good homemade cooking. Enjoy!