Craving a hearty, flavorful meal that’s both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than our Test Kitchen Meatloaf recipe! This isn't your grandma's meatloaf – although she'd probably love it too. We've taken this classic comfort food and given it a delicious upgrade, focusing on fresh ingredients and simple techniques to deliver maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend gathering, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience meatloaf like never before!
Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors
This recipe uses readily available ingredients to create a truly unforgettable meatloaf.
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 large 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 Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Meatloaf Mastery
Let’s get cooking! These easy-to-follow instructions will guide you through creating a perfect meatloaf.
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg.
Step 2: Combine the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
Step 3: Shape the Loaf: Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. Transfer the meat mixture to the pan and shape it into a loaf.
Step 4: Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). You can check the doneness using a meat thermometer.
Step 6: Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Meatloaf Success
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a meat thermometer: This ensures your meatloaf is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps it retain its juices and makes for easier slicing.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different cheeses, herbs, or even a glaze for added flavor.
Variations: Explore Endless Possibilities
This recipe offers a fantastic base for your culinary creativity. Consider these tasty variations:
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture for a kick.
- Mushroom Meatloaf: Add a cup of finely chopped mushrooms to the meat mixture for an earthy flavor.
- BBQ Meatloaf: Instead of ketchup, use your favorite BBQ sauce as a topping.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30g
- Fat: Approximately 20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15g
This easy meatloaf recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner, a satisfying weekend meal, or even a potluck contribution. The simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make it accessible to home cooks of all levels. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish!