Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's both easy to make and guaranteed to impress? Look no further than this mouthwatering meatloaf recipe, elevated with a tangy barbecue sauce glaze. This homemade classic is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a delicious and satisfying experience for everyone. It's one of those best recipes that's surprisingly simple to execute, making it a fantastic choice for busy cooks.
Ingredients:
This recipe provides a perfect balance of flavors and textures, ensuring a truly delightful meatloaf. You'll need:
- 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 salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup your favorite barbecue sauce
Instructions:
Follow these simple steps for a perfect, juicy meatloaf every time. This easy recipe makes homemade cooking a breeze!
Step 1: Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
Step 2: Shaping and Baking the Meatloaf
Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared pan and shape it into a loaf. Spread half of the barbecue sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Step 3: Baking to Perfection
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 barbecue sauce over the top. This creates a beautiful glaze and adds extra flavor.
Step 4: Resting and Serving
Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it 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 – mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad all pair wonderfully.
Cooking Tips for the Best Meatloaf:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can make it tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just moistened.
- Use quality ingredients: The flavor of your meatloaf will be greatly enhanced by using good quality ground beef and fresh herbs.
- Check the internal temperature: Using a meat thermometer ensures your meatloaf is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking. Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for a little extra kick.
Variations:
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Experiment with different additions to personalize your meatloaf:
- Add some veggies: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for added nutrients and flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meatloaf mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheese please!: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the meatloaf during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a 6-serving recipe. Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This delicious and easy meatloaf recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It’s a healthy meal that the whole family will enjoy, proving that homemade cooking can be both simple and satisfying. Enjoy!