Are you craving a hearty, comforting meal that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This meatloaf recipe, elevated with crispy crackers and tangy tomato sauce, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest – a delicious dish that’s surprisingly quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend supper. This recipe offers a fantastic balance of flavors and textures, resulting in a juicy, flavorful meatloaf that’s sure to become a family favorite. Ready to dive in? Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 cup crushed saltine crackers
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup your favorite tomato sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This simple step ensures easy removal of your perfectly cooked meatloaf later.
Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef and pork. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf. Add the crushed crackers, milk, onion, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, garlic powder, and pepper. Mix everything until just combined. The key is to distribute the ingredients evenly without overworking the meat.
Shape and Bake: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. For extra cheesy goodness, sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here – it guarantees perfectly cooked meat every time!
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.
Tips for the Best Meatloaf:
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing develops the gluten in the meat, resulting in a tough meatloaf. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through.
- Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps retain its moisture and makes it easier to slice neatly.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different types of cheese, vegetables, or even a glaze for a unique twist.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
- Veggie Meatloaf: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers into the meat mixture for added nutrients and flavor.
- Italian Meatloaf: Use Italian breadcrumbs instead of saltines and add Italian seasoning to the meat mixture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This easy meatloaf recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. It's a great option for busy weeknights, special occasions, or simply a comforting meal for yourself. Enjoy the delicious flavors and easy preparation of this classic comfort food. Let us know how your meatloaf turned out in the comments below! We'd love to hear from you!