Are you craving a hearty, comforting meal that’s both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This recipe for juicy meatloaf with beef and pork is a classic for a reason. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a family dinner, a potluck, or simply a satisfying weeknight meal. Forget those dry, crumbly meatloaf nightmares – this recipe delivers moist, flavorful perfection every time. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its best!
Ingredients:
This recipe provides generous servings, easily adaptable for smaller or larger groups.
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup ketchup for glazing (optional)
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This preparation ensures your meatloaf bakes evenly and releases easily.
Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef and pork. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
Shape and bake: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Spread the optional extra ½ cup of ketchup evenly over the top.
Bake to perfection: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy; this ensures a safely cooked and delicious meatloaf. If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely tent it with foil.
Rest and serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.
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: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing prevents it from falling apart and keeps it juicy.
- Add vegetables: For extra flavor and nutrients, feel free to add finely chopped vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the meatloaf mixture.
Variations:
- Spicy meatloaf: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash 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 baking.
- BBQ meatloaf: Use BBQ sauce instead of ketchup for a smoky, sweet flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This easy recipe for meatloaf offers a delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy the wonderful aromas and the comforting taste of this classic dish, made with simple ingredients and a whole lot of love. Happy cooking!