Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a comforting, classic meal that’s both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Pampered Chef Meatloaf recipe is your answer. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe elevates the humble meatloaf to new heights, thanks to some clever Pampered Chef tools and techniques, resulting in a juicy, flavorful loaf that will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. This step is crucial for even cooking and flavor distribution.
Step 2: Combine the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, 1/4 cup ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf. Use your hands to gently mix everything until just combined.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
Using your Pampered Chef Rectangular Baker (or a similar sized baking dish), shape the meatloaf mixture into a loaf. Spread the remaining 1/2 cup of ketchup evenly over the top.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
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. If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely tent it with foil.
Tips for the Best Meatloaf:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture will make it 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: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different toppings like crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, or caramelized onions.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture.
- Veggie Meatloaf: Add 1 cup of finely chopped vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers, to the meatloaf mixture.
- Cheese Meatloaf: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the meatloaf before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 30g Fat: Approximately 20g Carbohydrates: Approximately 15g
This Pampered Chef Meatloaf recipe is a fantastic example of how easy and delicious homemade cooking can be. It's a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy!