Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening? Look no further! This classic meatloaf recipe, inspired by Natasha's Kitchen's famous home-style cooking, is the perfect answer. It's incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and delivers a delicious, satisfying meal the whole family will adore. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food, bursting with savory goodness and perfectly moist on the inside. This recipe offers a delicious and healthy take on a family favorite. It's one of the best recipes for a quick weeknight dinner!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 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 basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This step ensures your meatloaf will slide right out once cooked.
Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture:
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In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the breadcrumbs, milk, egg, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
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Add the wet ingredients to the meat mixture and gently combine until just mixed. Again, avoid overmixing.
Baking the Meatloaf:
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Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
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Spread the remaining 1/2 cup of ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
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Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer for accurate results. This ensures the meatloaf is cooked through and safe to eat.
Serving and Enjoying:
- 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.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf:
- For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the meatloaf mixture.
- Don't overmix the meatloaf mixture! Overmixing can result in a tough meatloaf.
- For a crispier top, broil the meatloaf for the last few minutes of cooking. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- If your meatloaf is browning too quickly, loosely tent it with foil during baking.
Variations:
- Cheesy Meatloaf: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the meatloaf mixture.
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture.
- Veggie Meatloaf: Add 1 cup of chopped vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers, to the meatloaf mixture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This delicious and easy meatloaf recipe is perfect for a family dinner, potluck, or even a quick weeknight meal. It's a crowd-pleaser that's sure to become a staple in your recipe book. Enjoy!