Craving a comforting, classic meal that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this traditional meatloaf recipe, elevated with the sweetness of bell peppers and onions. This isn't your grandma's meatloaf (though she'd probably love it too!), it's a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This easy recipe offers a healthy and satisfying meal the whole family will enjoy. It's one of the best recipes for homemade cooking, guaranteed to become a staple in your quick dinner ideas repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 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 easy removal and a perfectly browned meatloaf.
Prepare the Vegetables: Finely chop the onion and bell peppers. Sautéing them lightly before adding them to the meat mixture adds depth of flavor and softens their texture.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, sautéed onions and peppers, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
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). A meat thermometer is your best friend here; it ensures the meatloaf is cooked through and safe to eat.
Rest and Serve: 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 can 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.
- Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps it retain its juices.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different glazes or toppings, such as BBQ sauce or brown sugar.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Meatloaf: Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese blend for extra flavor and richness.
- Veggie Meatloaf: Add other finely chopped vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrients and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30g
- Fat: Approximately 20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15g
This delicious and satisfying meatloaf recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of ground beef, bell peppers, and onions creates a flavorful and healthy meal that everyone will enjoy. From easy recipes for beginners to delicious dishes for experienced cooks, this traditional meatloaf is a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!