Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a hearty, flavorful meal that feels both comforting and sophisticated? Then look no further! This meatloaf recipe, enhanced with earthy mushrooms, is the perfect answer. It's a delicious dish that's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe provides a healthy twist on a classic, making it a perfect addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. Get ready to experience a meatloaf like you've never tasted before!
Ingredients:
This recipe yields 6 servings.
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Sauté the mushrooms: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped mushrooms and cook until softened and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly. This step adds depth of flavor to your meatloaf.
Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked mushrooms, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, pepper, and salt. Gently mix with your hands until just combined – be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
Shape and bake: Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape into a loaf.
Bake: 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.
Rest and serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for the Best Meatloaf:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can result in a tough meatloaf. Mix gently until just combined.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Add some veggies: Feel free to add other finely chopped vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini, to the meatloaf mixture.
- Make your own breadcrumbs: For extra flavor, make your own breadcrumbs from stale bread.
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.
- Cheese Lover's Meatloaf: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella cheese over the top of the meatloaf before baking.
- Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like parsley, oregano, or sage.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 25-30g Fat: Approximately 20-25g Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This delicious and easy meatloaf recipe is perfect for a quick dinner idea, but impressive enough for a special occasion. Enjoy this homemade cooking masterpiece! It’s one of the best recipes for a comforting, flavorful, and satisfying meal. Make it your go-to for weeknight dinners and family gatherings alike!