Are you craving a hearty, comforting meal that's also surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This meatloaf recipe, elevated with a tangy mustard glaze, is the perfect answer for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. Forget dry, bland meatloaf; this recipe delivers juicy, flavorful perfection every time. It's a delicious dish that’s perfect for the whole family, and easily adaptable to your preferences. This recipe is a shining example of healthy meals and homemade cooking done right!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 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 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Mustard Glaze:
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
Getting Started: Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture
- 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.
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef and ground pork. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix everything together until just combined. Again, gentle mixing is key!
Shaping and Baking the Meatloaf
- Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Pat the top gently to even it out.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar to create the glaze.
- Brush the glaze generously over the top of the meatloaf.
Baking to Perfection and Serving
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through. The glaze will beautifully caramelize during baking.
- 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 Meatloaf Success:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can make it tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to add more or less of any seasoning to suit your preferences. A dash of cayenne pepper adds a nice kick!
- Add vegetables: For a healthier and more flavorful meatloaf, incorporate finely chopped vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers into the meatloaf mixture.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Meatloaf: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella over the top of the meatloaf before baking.
- BBQ Meatloaf: Use your favorite BBQ sauce as a glaze instead of the mustard glaze.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Protein: Approximately 30g
- Fat: Approximately 20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15g
This easy meatloaf recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can create with simple ingredients and minimal effort. It's a perfect weeknight dinner option that's both satisfying and flavorful. Enjoy!