Are you 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 recipe, elevated with a homemade tangy barbecue glaze, is about to become your new weeknight favorite. Forget dry, boring meatloaf; this recipe delivers juicy, tender perfection every time. It's a delicious dish perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. This recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes and healthy meals combined!
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 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
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Barbecue Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This is a crucial step for easy removal of your delicious meatloaf later.
Prepare the Meatloaf:
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In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
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Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan.
Make the Glaze:
- In a small saucepan, whisk together all the glaze ingredients. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the sauce slightly thickens (about 5 minutes).
Bake and Glaze:
- Pour half of the barbecue glaze over the meatloaf. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). During the last 15 minutes of baking, brush the remaining glaze over the meatloaf for that beautiful, glossy finish and extra flavor.
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 final product. Serve with your favorite sides – mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad all complement this delicious dish perfectly.
Tips for Meatloaf Success:
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing develops the gluten in the breadcrumbs, resulting in a tough meatloaf.
- Use good quality ground meat: The flavor of your meatloaf will directly reflect the quality of the ground meat you use.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat, or more herbs for a more intense flavor.
- Check the internal temperature: Using a meat thermometer ensures your meatloaf is cooked thoroughly and safely.
Variations:
- Add cheese: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese into the meatloaf mixture for extra flavor and richness.
- Spice it up: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture for a spicier kick.
- Use different breadcrumbs: Experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, such as Italian seasoned breadcrumbs or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 25-30g Fat: Approximately 20-25g Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This homemade cooking recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. It's a great way to enjoy a healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy this quick dinner idea, one of the best recipes out there!