Introduction
Meatloaf is the epitome of comfort food. Its savory, hearty goodness brings back warm memories of family dinners. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting in the kitchen, this classic meatloaf recipe will delight your taste buds and satisfy your craving for a wholesome meal.
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Ingredients You'll Need
For the meatloaf:
1 ½ pounds ground beef (85% lean)
½ pound ground pork
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 large eggs
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried basil
½ cup ketchup
For the glaze:
½ cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf will cook evenly and develop a beautiful crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. This blend adds both flavor and moisture to your meatloaf. Add in the breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried oregano, and dried basil. Mix these ingredients thoroughly. Your goal is to create a well-combined mixture without overmixing, which can make the meatloaf tough.
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf
On a baking sheet or in a loaf pan, shape the meat mixture into a loaf. The loaf should be about 9x5 inches in size and evenly shaped to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup of ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. This glaze will add a sweet and tangy flavor to the meatloaf while keeping it moist.
Step 5: Glaze and Bake
Spread the prepared glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This step not only adds flavor but also gives your meatloaf a beautiful, caramelized finish.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to determine doneness. It's essential to ensure the meat is cooked thoroughly while remaining juicy and flavorful.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf even more tender and easier to slice. Serve slices of this classic meatloaf with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes and green beans.
Conclusion
With this classic meatloaf recipe, you'll bring the comforting aroma and taste of home-cooked goodness to your dinner table. It's a dish that appeals to all generations, making it a timeless favorite. Whether you're serving it for a special occasion or a simple family dinner, meatloaf never fails to satisfy.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and embark on a culinary journey that celebrates tradition and flavor. Enjoy the simple pleasures of a well-made meatloaf, and relish in the heartwarming memories it creates around your table.
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