Are you craving a hearty, comforting meal that's also surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This meatloaf recipe, elevated with the satisfying crunch of Ritz crackers, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's the perfect quick dinner idea for busy weeknights, and it's so delicious, it'll quickly become a family favorite. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest, with a twist that adds incredible texture and flavor. This recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can create with simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup Ritz crackers, finely crushed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
Step 2: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the crushed Ritz crackers, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Combine and Shape
Add the wet ingredients to the meat mixture and gently combine until just moistened. Don't overmix! Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through.
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. Serve with your favorite sides – mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad all pair beautifully.
Tips for Meatloaf Success:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture will make it tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just moistened.
- Use a meat thermometer: This ensures your meatloaf is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Add some veggies: Finely diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers can be added to the meatloaf mixture for extra flavor and nutrients. This makes it a healthier meal.
- Customize your ketchup glaze: Experiment with different types of ketchup or add a touch of brown sugar or Dijon mustard for a unique flavor.
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.
- Cheesy Meatloaf: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the meatloaf before baking.
- Herb-infused Meatloaf: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This easy meatloaf recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and best recipes. It’s a delicious dish that’s both satisfying and relatively quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Enjoy!