Meatloaf is a timeless dish that never fails to evoke feelings of comfort and nostalgia. With its hearty texture and savory flavors, it’s no wonder that meatloaf remains a beloved favorite for family dinners and gatherings. If you’re looking for the perfect meatloaf recipe to satisfy your cravings, look no further. Here’s how to create a classic meatloaf that will have everyone coming back for seconds:
Ingredients:
- 680 grams ground beef (or a mixture of beef and pork)
- 240 milliliters breadcrumbs
- 120 milliliters milk
- 120 milliliters finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 60 milliliters ketchup
- 15 milliliters Worcestershire sauce
- 5 grams dried thyme
- 5 grams dried oregano
- 5 grams salt
- 2.5 grams black pepper
For the Glaze:
- 60 milliliters ketchup
- 30 grams brown sugar
- 15 milliliters Dijon mustard
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf shape on the lined baking sheet. Use your hands to smooth the top and shape it into an even loaf.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 71°C (160°F) and the top is caramelized and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful meatloaf. Slice the meatloaf and serve it hot, accompanied by your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, you can add ingredients such as diced bell peppers, grated carrots, or chopped mushrooms to the meatloaf mixture.
- If you prefer a spicier meatloaf, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- Leftover meatloaf makes delicious sandwiches the next day. Simply slice the meatloaf and serve it on bread with your favorite condiments and toppings.
Whether enjoyed as a comforting weeknight meal or served at a special gathering, this classic meatloaf recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and bring smiles to the faces of everyone around the table. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste of home with this timeless favorite.
