Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in? Look no further than this classic meatloaf recipe! This isn't your grandma's meatloaf (though she'd probably love it too!), we've tweaked it to be juicy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. This recipe uses a delicious combination of beef and pork for the ultimate meatloaf experience, promising a delicious dish that's perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 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 basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This simple step ensures your meatloaf releases easily and prevents sticking.
Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef and ground pork. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until just combined.
Shape the Loaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Spread the remaining 1/2 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). You can check the doneness using a meat thermometer; this ensures your meatloaf is cooked through and safe to eat.
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, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Meatloaf:
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing can make your meatloaf tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through.
- Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps keep it moist and juicy.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different glazes or toppings, such as brown sugar, BBQ sauce, or even a sprinkle of cheese.
Variations:
- Add some veggies: Finely diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers can be added to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it cheesy: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the top before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate for one serving of this meatloaf is:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This delicious meatloaf recipe is a perfect example of a healthy, easy meal, and is a great addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the satisfaction of creating a homemade, delicious dish!