Are you craving a hearty, comforting meal that’s both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Meatloaf Recipe Ann Landers style is a twist on a timeless classic, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Forget those dry, bland meatloaves of the past – this recipe delivers juicy, flavorful perfection every time. It's a simple recipe, ideal for homemade cooking, perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Let's get started!
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)
- ½ cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This simple step ensures easy removal and prevents sticking.
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Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened, about 5 minutes. This step adds depth of flavor to your meatloaf.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, sautéed onion and garlic mixture, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
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Shape the Loaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
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Bake: 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.
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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 is the best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps retain its juices and makes for a more tender final product.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different glazes or toppings, such as brown sugar, BBQ sauce, or even a sprinkle of cheese during the last 15 minutes of baking.
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.
- Veggie Meatloaf: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrients and flavor.
- Italian Meatloaf: Substitute Italian seasoning for the oregano and thyme, and add some sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This Meatloaf Recipe Ann Landers style is a delicious and satisfying meal the whole family will enjoy. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of classic comfort food, updated for the modern kitchen. Enjoy this easy recipe and let us know your thoughts in the comments!