Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that’s surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this classic meatloaf recipe, elevated with the magic of onion soup mix and Worcestershire sauce. This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering. It's one of those healthy meals that tastes incredibly decadent without requiring hours in the kitchen. Let's dive into this simple yet delicious recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup onion soup mix
- ½ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- ½ cup milk or breadcrumbs (for moisture)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for a sweeter glaze)
Instructions:
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, onion soup mix, Worcestershire sauce, egg, milk (or breadcrumbs), thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf. Mix just until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Shaping and Baking the Meatloaf
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a lightly greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Step 3: Creating the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup and brown sugar (if using). Pour this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Step 4: Baking to Perfection
Bake for approximately 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through. If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely tent it with aluminum foil.
Step 5: Resting and Serving
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 hot with your favorite sides, like 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 a meat thermometer: This ensures your meatloaf is cooked to a safe internal temperature, preventing foodborne illnesses.
- Adjust seasonings to your 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 extra flavor and nutrition: Finely diced carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini can be incorporated into the meatloaf mixture.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Meatloaf: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the meatloaf before glazing.
- Herb-infused Meatloaf: Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as rosemary, oregano, or parsley.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 25-30g Fat: 20-25g Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This recipe provides a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. It's a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to your taste preferences, making it a great option for both novice and experienced cooks. Enjoy your homemade delicious dish!