Are you craving a hearty, comforting meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this delicious meatloaf recipe, elevated with the savory goodness of stuffing mix! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick dinner idea that the whole family will love. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best, delivering a flavorful and satisfying dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Let's dive into this simple yet impressive recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 cup stuffing mix (herb-seasoned is best)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This simple step ensures your meatloaf releases easily and prevents sticking.
Prepare the meatloaf mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, stuffing mix, milk, onion, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf. Gentle mixing is key here for a tender result.
Shape and bake: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
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. This guarantees a juicy and safe meatloaf every time.
Let it rest: 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.
Tips for the Best Meatloaf:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture will make it tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as finely diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers, to the meatloaf mixture for added flavor and nutrients.
- Top it off: For extra flavor, you can top the meatloaf with extra ketchup or a glaze during the last 15 minutes of baking. Experiment with different glazes!
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 over the top of the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute ground turkey for the ground beef for a leaner and healthier option. You might need to add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs for better binding.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Protein: Approximately 25g
- Fat: Approximately 20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15g
This recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are quick and easy to make. It's a great healthy meal option that's perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner. Enjoy!