Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This meatloaf made with crackers recipe is a delicious twist on a comfort food classic. It's a simple, healthy meal perfect for a weeknight dinner, offering a fantastic balance of juicy meat and crispy texture – guaranteed to be a family favorite. Forget dry, boring meatloaf; this recipe delivers moist, flavorful perfection every time. Prepare for a quick and easy dinner that tastes like it took hours to prepare!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a spontaneous weeknight dinner. No need for specialized ingredients or exotic spices; this is homemade cooking at its finest.
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 cup crushed saltine crackers (about 6 crackers)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup ketchup for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions: Easy as 1, 2, 3!
This meatloaf recipe is designed for ease and speed, perfect for those busy weeknights. Follow these simple steps for a delicious result.
-
Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of your perfectly formed meatloaf.
-
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, crushed crackers, onion, ketchup, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, thyme, pepper, and salt. Avoid overmixing; a few gentle folds are all you need. Overmixing can result in a tough meatloaf.
-
Shape & Bake: Shape the meatloaf mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan. Spread the remaining 1/4 cup of ketchup evenly over the top.
-
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here to guarantee a perfectly cooked meatloaf.
-
Rest & 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 Success
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can make it tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just incorporated.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures your meatloaf is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking. Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
- Add Veggies: Sneak in some finely chopped vegetables like carrots or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
Delicious Variations: Beyond the Basics
This basic recipe is a fantastic foundation for experimentation. Try these variations for a new meatloaf experience every time:
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Meatloaf: Mix in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy twist.
- Mushroom Meatloaf: Add 1 cup of finely chopped mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
This meatloaf recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a classic comfort food. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It’s the perfect example of homemade cooking done right, delivering delicious results with minimal effort. Enjoy!