Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that evokes feelings of warmth and home-cooked goodness? Look no further than this amazing meatloaf recipe! This isn't your grandma's meatloaf (though she'd probably love it too!), we've taken the classic comfort food and elevated it with a blend of succulent beef, tender pork, and lean veal, resulting in a moist and incredibly delicious dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this easy recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Get ready to experience meatloaf like never before!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes a generous meatloaf, easily serving 6-8 people. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
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For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 lb ground pork
- ½ lb ground veal
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
- ½ cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
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For the Glaze (optional):
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
This easy-to-follow recipe makes creating this delicious dish a breeze. Even beginner cooks will find it simple to master!
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, pork, and veal. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
Step 2: Add the Flavor:
Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture. Gently mix until just combined.
Step 3: Shape the Loaf:
Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared pan and shape it into a loaf.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection:
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If using the optional glaze, brush it over the meatloaf during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Step 5: Rest and Serve:
Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 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 develops the gluten in the meat, resulting in a tough meatloaf. Gentle mixing is key.
- Use quality ingredients: The flavor of your meatloaf will be directly influenced by the quality of the ingredients you use. Opt for good quality ground meats.
- Check the internal temperature: Using a meat thermometer ensures your meatloaf is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps retain its moisture and improves its texture.
Variations:
- Add some veggies: Incorporate finely diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers into the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrients.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Cheese please: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This delicious meatloaf recipe is a perfect example of how simple, homemade cooking can create truly satisfying and healthy meals. Enjoy!