Are you looking for a comforting, delicious, and surprisingly easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This meatloaf recipe, boosted with the richness of pork, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Forget dry, bland meatloaf; this recipe delivers a juicy, flavorful loaf that's perfect for a family meal or a casual get-together. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best, and a recipe that even beginner cooks can master. This is one of those best recipes that's quick to prepare and even quicker to devour!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Ketchup for glazing (optional)
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This simple step ensures easy removal of your delicious meatloaf later.
Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf. Just gently mix until everything is evenly distributed.
Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
Bake the meatloaf: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). For an extra-delicious glaze, spread some ketchup over the top of the meatloaf during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Rest and Serve: Once cooked, 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. Serve with your favorite sides – mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad are all excellent choices.
Tips for the Best Meatloaf:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the meat mixture can make the meatloaf tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing prevents it from falling apart and keeps it juicy.
- Get creative with your glaze: Try a brown sugar glaze, BBQ sauce, or even a balsamic glaze for a different flavor profile.
Variations:
- Add some veggies: Finely diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers can add extra flavor and nutrients.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Cheese please: Mix in some shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for a cheesy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This easy meatloaf recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and satisfying enough to be a delicious weekend treat. Enjoy!