Meatloaf Recipe

Introduction

Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that brings to mind memories of home-cooked meals and cozy gatherings around the dinner table. This hearty dish is made from a flavorful blend of ground meat, herbs, spices, and other ingredients, baked to perfection. In this recipe, we will take you through the steps of creating a delicious meatloaf that is moist, tender, and bursting with savory flavors. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this meatloaf recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 eggs, beaten
• ½ cup milk
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Mixing and Shaping

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
3. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined. It’s best to use your hands to ensure even distribution of the ingredients.
4. Transfer the meat mixture to the greased or lined loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, making sure it is evenly packed and smooth on top.

Baking

1. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
2. During the last 10 minutes of baking, you can brush the top of the meatloaf with additional ketchup or a glaze of your choice for added flavor and a beautiful caramelized finish.
3. Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Serving

1. Slice the meatloaf into thick, juicy portions.
2. Serve the meatloaf with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
3. Optionally, you can drizzle some gravy over the meatloaf or serve it with extra ketchup on the side.

Conclusion

In conclusion, meatloaf is a classic dish that satisfies both the stomach and the soul. With its rich flavors, tender texture, and simple preparation, it’s no wonder that meatloaf has remained a beloved staple for generations. By following this recipe, you can create a mouthwatering meatloaf that will delight your taste buds and bring comfort to your dining table. So, gather your ingredients, mix, shape, and bake your way to a delicious homemade meatloaf that will make any mealtime special. Enjoy the hearty goodness and the warmth of this timeless comfort food.